WAYS VOLUNTEERING TRANSFORMS YOUR HEALTH
As a member-owned financial cooperative, Sunmark relies on the talents of volunteers from our membership to serve on our Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee.
Did you know that volunteering can improve your whole health -- body, mind and spirit? A study of Americans over the age of 60 found that those who volunteered reported lower disability and higher levels of well-being than those who did not volunteer. Check out five exciting ways volunteering can boost your health:
Volunteering improves your social well-being
Volunteering often involves socializing and building strong bonds with others - and this can do wonders for your health. According to the National Institute on Aging, positive indicators of social well-being may be associated with lower levels of interleukin 6, an inflammatory factor associated with conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and some forms of cancer. So whether you're helping clean up your local park with a group of 20 community members or spending time at your favorite animal shelter with a few friends, you're reaping the healthy benefits of working with others.
Volunteering helps you stay active
Getting out and planting flowers in your community garden or repainting your town's library are just a few ways you can volunteer and get in some exercise. These types of activities help you work different muscles and build strength. Plus, they're a fun alternative to your typical workout routine. Just be sure to check with your doctor before participating in a volunteer gig that involves a lot of physical activity. You'll want to make sure the activity you're doing is safe for your body.
Volunteering gives you purpose
Your community, non-profit organizations, charities, and the people they serve depend on volunteers to support their causes. That's why when you volunteer, you matter - and this sense of purpose can have a big impact on your health. So if you have an organization in mind that you'd like to help out but aren't sure how to, check online to see if it has volunteer opportunities in your area.
Volunteering boosts your mood
Volunteering is uplifting - you meet new people, learn new skills, and make a difference in someone's life. Surrounding yourself with these positive vibes helps you build confidence, develop a strong support system, and feel, well, happier. This can help combat symptoms of depression, and since your mental health is strongly connected to your physical health, your overall health can benefit from the mood-boosting power of giving back.
Volunteering keeps your mind sharp
Challenging your brain is a great way to keep it strong. And when you participate in mentally stimulating volunteer activities like tutoring or event planning, you're doing just that. These types of volunteer activities help improve the cognitive functions of your brain, like your working memory and information processing. So if you're looking for new ways to stay sharp, try volunteering at your local school or check with your local community center to see if there are any upcoming events you can help out on.
