by Beth Hermes

Created on: March 10, 2009   Last Updated: March 16, 2009

When the world hands me lemons, I can either choke on the bitterness or make lemonade. Either way, I will make an impact.

Each morning we are presented with a great opportunity to make a difference in our own lives and the lives of those with whom we interact throughout that day. Which side of the bed we wake up on, so to speak, can have a significant effect on how we react to the day, what influence we have on others and, ultimately, how we feel about ourselves.

Studies indicate that people who are affiliated with a church or some type of religious organization are often healthier individuals. Is it because of their belief? Perhaps it is because their affiliations afford them with opportunities to help others, which in turn has a positive impact on their health. The simple act of giving results in positive mood and a decrease in stress level, which is good for our health.

Does this mean that non-religious individuals have fewer opportunities to improve their health? Of course not. The sheer number of volunteer opportunities in any given community is more than enough to provide a kindness-based "health plan" for everyone in it.

Volunteering at a soup kitchen or clothing drive fulfills a direct need for individuals lacking food or a suitable wardrobe. Spending time reading to a child in a hospital or school shows that child that someone cares. But by helping those individuals, we are truly helping ourselves as well, fostering our sense of self-worth, creating within ourselves feelings of peace and usefulness, and allowing us to interact in a positive way to the world around us.

Of course, for those seeking a more active approach, there are plenty of adopt-a-road projects, community landscaping or clean-up opportunities and charity walk or run events, providing a combination of both positive feelings about oneself and physical fitness as well. If sweat equals health to you, by all means lace up your tennis shoes or grab a shovel!

But these are organized acts of kindness. Everyday opportunities abound as well. What would happen if you were having a bad day but took a moment to hold a door for an elderly person or a mother struggling with a stroller? If the person in the grocery line forgets one of their bags, take a moment to catch up to them in the parking lot to hand it to them. If someone is scowling while waiting for a table at a restaurant, share a smile or strike up a conversation with them.

Each of these acts of kindness - large or small, organized or spontaneous - helps out someone else. But it can make you feel pretty good about yourself as well.

Just for kicks, take your blood pressure after a day of "doing good." You might be surprised at the results!

When life presents lemons to me or those around me, I'll reap the rewards of making a tall glass of lemonade!

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