Giving Is Good for You

It's official -- giving is better than receiving.

Acts of kindness such as serving meals at a homeless shelter, running to the pharmacy for a sick friend, or lending emotional support to a significant other may help people live longer, a recent study concluded.

Do something kind and compassionate for someone else each day and you'll reap health benefits as well.

Bonding with others and having a sense of purpose are vital to mental well-being. A healthy mental state, in turn, translates into increased immunity and improved cardiovascular health.

In a study, older married people who devoted time and energy to others as well as provided emotional support to their spouses enjoyed increased longevity compared to their less generous peers.

Lend a hand to friends, family members, and neighbors when the need arises. You also can look for opportunities to give to the community by volunteering at your local library, hospital, soup kitchen, or animal rescue shelter