It’s well known that “making a difference” makes us happier and healthier: people who volunteer live longer.
Now a new study finds that your body might know this on a molecular level. The specific type of happiness you derive from pursuing a greater purpose positiviley influences the genes in your immune system.
“People whose happiness comes primarily from doing good for others, rather than from hedonistic self-satisfaction, show a much more favorable gene profile, with less inflammation and better antibody and antiviral activity,” says lead researcher Steven W. Cole, Ph.D., professor of medicine at UCLA. No need to get lofty. “It can be as simple as investing more time with your grandchildren — whatever you care about.”
One great way to give back while having a good time is attending the Zumbathon this Sunday! The Zumbathon will be held on February 9 from 2-4 pm (doors will open at 1:30) at WRRFC. This charity event will sponsor Laura’s Home Women’s Crisis Center. It will be hosted by instructors Amy Hickin with guest instructors Cookie Bass, Tyler Hanes, and Emily Murdock. Admission is a $10 donation. For more information, contact Amy Hickin at 330.608.7712 or amyhickin@windstream.net.
*The information on “Happy Genes” first appeared in AARP magazine.