There is a perfectly rational, scientific explanation for the "warm fuzzies" one feels when performing a good deed. The body immediately releases endorphins, the same pain-fighting, stress-reducing feel-good hormones that are most often associated with sex, exercise, and chocolate.
If you do not have immediate access to a lover, exercise bike, or Godiva Store, but still wish to reap the health benefits of endorphins, an easy way to do so is by doing something nice for someone else.
The effects will be immediate. You will be thinking in a positive manner, thus improving your psychological well-being, enjoying the physical benefits of the endorphin release, and creating a path of good Karma. Best of all, it doesn't take much effort on your part.
Every Day Acts of Kindness
For some reason, society seems to dictate that everyone be in a constant state of hurry. This rushing leads us to step on one another's toes, to be rude to one another, and to miss the opportunities to treat one another with the most basic form of kindness: common courtesy.
As you move through your day and find yourself with that urgent feeling to get as quickly as possible to the next destination or task, ask yourself why you are rushing. Acknowledge that there really is no reason for urgency, and slow down. Notice the people around you.
Invite someone to step ahead of you in line at the supermarket or coffee shop. Do not speed up when someone is trying to merge in front of you on the highway. Pause, smile, and speak with the people you encounter on a daily basis such as your coworkers or your postman. Give your spouse a meaningful kiss before leaving for the day and when arriving home. Stop to pet the neighbor's cat and take a moment to throw some seeds in the yard for the birds.
Adopting a slower pace will allow you the time that is needed for you to treat others (and yourself) well. It will also help to lower your stress levels and, when you include these simple acts of kindness, those endorphins will kick in as well.
Moving Beyond the Basics
If you have the time and the motivation, you might extend your efforts and challenge yourself a bit more when it comes to your postitive actions. Go to a local animal shelter and adopt a pet. If you want to rack up extra Karma points, adopt an adult pet that might otherwise be overlooked.
Taking care of an animal is known to reduce stress and blood pressure. Focusing on another living creature will also distract you from negative thinking and help you to get outside of yourself. The time you spend walking or exercising your pet will have obvious health benefits as well.
If animals are not your thing, you might consider planting a tree or a garden. Plants are good for the environment and there are few things more satisfying than witnessing the fruition of your efforts in the form of a healthy, growing tree or succulent fruits or blooming flowers. The time spent in the sun tending to your plants will benefit you both physically and psychologically. If you don't have a backyard, you can easily create a kitchen herb garden. Search online for growing kits and use the fruits of your labor to enhance the flavor of your cooking!
Another idea for the more dedicated do-gooder is to "adopt" an elderly or incapacitated neighbor. Offer to care for this person's yard. Mow the lawn, shovel the snow, and rake the leaves. Your efforts will be appreciated and you will get a good physical workout. Call or stop by his or her house before leaving on a trip to the grocery store to see if anything is needed. Bake healthy casseroles for this individual. Make large portions so you can save some for yourself as well!
Finding Motivation
If you are not sure where to start, consider where your interests and talents lie and figure out a way to use them to benefit others. Be sure to remember that no matter how small or insignificant your positive actions may seem to you, to others they can be quite meaningful. With a bit of creativity, you will find a variety of ways to cheer others and improve your surroundings, and in the process, improve yourself as well.