ELDER’S QUORUM
Scott Henriksen, President
Service to others can be healthy
When I am feeling oppressed by the national news I like to seek out some uplifting news on the good news network (www.good newsnetwork.org). Recently I came across an article regarding a unique “weight lifting” exercise a coach had his team do after a huge snow storm. Here is an excerpt from that article: Students in Western Pennsylvania had a snow day on Monday, but instead of staying home or meeting for an indoor workout, these teens on a high school football team were instructed by their coach to get outside and help their neighbors. Coach Brian DeLallo at Bethel Park High School near Pittsburgh, took to Twitter to announce that Monday’s weightlifting session in the gymnasium was canceled—but he had an alternative assignment for the young men. “Due to the expected severe weather, Monday’s weightlifting workout has been canceled. Find an elderly or disabled neighbor and shovel their driveway… that’s our Monday workout.” He also told the boys not to accept any money. By mid-morning more than 27 of the athletes were texting photos to the coach, with some saying they were on their 6th driveway. “What better workout than shoveling driveways,” said Braedon Del Duca, a junior on the team who went from house to house offering their services with teammate Colton Pfeuffer. “It’s just nice getting out here, helping out the community, just helping out others that need help,” Pfeuffer told WTAE-TV News in Pittsburgh. From www.mentalfloss.com I found this article that supports Coach DeLallo’s idea of using service to help you stay healthy. This article indicates there are at least 7 good scientific benefits or reasons to look around and help others: 1. HELPING OTHERS CAN HELP YOU LIVE LONGER. Research has shown that these kinds of activities can improve health in ways that can lengthen your lifespan—volunteers show an improved ability to manage stress and stave off disease as well as reduced rates of depression and an increased sense of life satisfaction. 2. ALTRUISM IS CONTAGIOUS. When one person performs a good deed, it causes a chain reaction of other altruistic acts. 3. HELPING OTHERS MAKES US HAPPY. One team of sociologists tracked 2000 people over a five-year period and found that Americans who described themselves as “very happy” volunteered at least 5.8 hours per month. 4. HELPING OTHERS MAY HELP WITH CHRONIC PAIN. According to one study, people who suffered from chronic pain tried working as peer volunteers. As a result, they experienced a reduction in their own symptoms. 5. HELPING OTHERS LOWERS BLOOD PRESSURE. One piece of research showed that older individuals who volunteered for at least 200 hours a year decreased their risk of hypertension by a whopping 40 percent. 6. HELPING OTHERS PROMOTES POSITIVE BEHAVIORS IN TEENS. According to sociologists, teenagers who volunteer have better grades and self-image. 7. HELPING OTHERS GIVES US A SENSE OF PURPOSE AND SATISFACTION. Studies show that volunteering enhances an individual’s overall sense of purpose and identity—particularly if they no longer hold a life-defining role like “worker” or “parent.” In conclusion, I suggest we all pray for snow to shovel (because we need it) and keep watch for opportunities to improve our health by helping others. Submitted by Paul Carter, 1st Counselor 6
