Have you ever noticed that giving to others feels… good? There’s a reason for that, and it’s not just a happy coincidence. It turns out that generosity has real, tangible effects on our brains and bodies. From boosting our happiness to reducing stress, giving is a powerful tool for improving our mental and emotional wellbeing.

But what exactly is happening in our bodies when we give? Let’s explore the science behind generosity and how it can make us feel better, more connected, and more fulfilled.

The Happiness Hormones

When we give, our brains release feel-good chemicals like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. These are often referred to as the "happiness hormones" because they help improve our mood, reduce stress, and make us feel more connected to others.

Dopamine, in particular, is released when we experience pleasure or reward. When we give, whether it’s donating money or volunteering our time, our brains interpret this as a rewarding experience. This is why giving feels so good – it’s essentially our brain rewarding us for doing something positive. It’s like a natural high that not only makes us feel happy in the moment but also creates a sense of long-term wellbeing.

The Stress-Reducing Effects of Giving

Generosity has also been shown to reduce stress. Studies have found that people who regularly give to others experience lower levels of stress and anxiety. When we focus on helping others, we shift our attention away from our own worries and problems. This can provide a sense of relief and calm, making it easier to cope with life’s challenges.

What’s even more interesting is that generosity has a positive impact on our physical health. Research has shown that people who practice acts of kindness and generosity have lower blood pressure, stronger immune systems, and even a longer lifespan. In a world where stress is a common problem, giving to others may be one of the easiest ways to improve both our mental and physical health.

Building Stronger Connections Through Giving

Generosity isn’t just about how we feel in the moment; it also has lasting effects on our relationships with others. When we give, we build trust and connection with those around us. This creates stronger bonds between us and the people we care about, whether they’re family members, friends, or members of our wider community.

Giving also strengthens our sense of belonging. When we help others, we feel part of something bigger than ourselves. This sense of belonging is crucial for our mental health and happiness, as it provides us with a sense of purpose and connection that can last a lifetime.

Generosity and the Impact of Regular Giving

While one-off donations are a great way to give back, it’s regular giving that truly maximises the benefits of generosity. Regular donations not only provide ongoing support to the causes we care about but also reinforce the positive effects of giving. When we commit to giving regularly, we create a habit that boosts our mood, reduces our stress, and strengthens our connections to others.

At One Percent Collective, we make it easy for you to experience the benefits of regular giving. By donating just 1% of your income, you can support a range of New Zealand-based charities that are working to create positive change. Your regular contributions will help these organisations build sustainable, long-term solutions while giving you the ongoing benefits of generosity.

Start Giving Today

If you’re ready to experience the feel-good benefits of generosity, join One Percent Collective today. Your regular donations will help support the causes that matter most to you, while improving your own wellbeing. Giving really does feel good, and with One Percent Collective, it’s easy to get started.