The act of giving not only feels good but is good for your biochemistry, physiology, overall health and longevity! How much of this is related to the feel good hormone, oxytocin, and how much is related to doing a good deed? Giving oxytocin to people leads to their being more giving and feeling happier.
Studies on volunteers over 30 years show that this was associated with a 44% lower risk for dying. In general, volunteers enjoyed better quality of life, were happier, more satisfied, had greater self esteem, had less depression and enjoyed better heath.