Many workplaces offer wellness programs, which are designed to help employees improve their physical and mental health. These programs generally offer exercise classes, as well as classes on healthy eating and financial planning.
I really like the wellness program at my workplace. I think the classes are great and very beneficial! (I love my Zumba class!) But new research suggests that there could be another easy way to improve your physical and mental health – volunteer.
A 2006 study published in the International Journal of Psychophysiology found that people who volunteered their time and helped others:
- Had lower blood pressure
- Were less depressed
- Experienced lower levels of stress
- Had greater feelings of self-esteem
There even seems to be a link between volunteering and cardiovascular health – which means that volunteering could potentially help you to live longer!
So if you can, try volunteering a little bit of your time and see how it makes you feel. You could end up helping others and helping yourself at the same time!
Piferi, R. L., & Lawler, K. A. (2006). Social support and ambulatory blood pressure: An examination of both receiving and giving. International Journal of Psychophysiology, 62, 328-336.
