Giving

Great women and men, of past and present, originating from various regions of the world, have emphasized on the importance of Giving as a means of our happiness. They have been consistently giving this message, through their sayings and actions, since time immemorial.

Why this emphasis on the simple act of Giving? What impact does it have on our lives and our happiness? Well, the latest science has found a major cause, which makes us behave certain ways. Scientists say the powerful hormone, Oxytocin produced in the brain, is responsible for love, empathy and compassion. The more you give, the more oxytocin is produced by your brain. This causes your whole being to be in a state of compassion. Not only that, oxytocin level of the receiver (who received your giving) also goes up due to your kind act; the receiver then does a kind act on another one, and so on, and the cycle continues. This virtuous cycle creates an atmosphere of compassion and love. It is contagious and we need this kind of contagion!

In the western world, the months of November and December are considered as the season of holidays and giving. Charity need not be seasonal. It can be part of our everyday life. In the current and upcoming articles, I’ll give you the practices that allow us to incorporate Giving as part of our daily lives; we deserve to be Happy everyday! So, let’s cultivate the contagious habit… 🙂

Practice

When you decide to give, give a little extra. Let’s say, you are at a restaurant, ate delicious meal and got nice service; give a little extra tip: 1% more or couple of dollars more. Watch your feelings; see if there is any resistance before giving; how do you feel after giving? Journal it. Feel free to share and comment here.