Extending Ourselves to Others

Giving of one's self is a cherished moment. Not only does it benefit us in both mental and physical terms but it lowers our stress level, increases the release of endorphins(Pleasure producing hormones in our system) and gives us a much more meaningful state of well being and therefore happiness.

Giving need not involve setting aside blocks of time, such as volunteering, although that's important. Sometimes you want to volunteer or get involved in activities and you really want to help someone, but stress, health and financial problems keep clogging your mind with unpleasant images. This stress causes you to move away from extending yourself to others and you become more self-centered, mainly from the stress of just getting by.

Extending yourself can involve a personal commitment, regardless of circumstances to do the little things that add up and improve your mental imagery about your circumstances.

Put food out for the stray cat on the block, pet your canine friends often and realize their contribution to your mental health, yes, within reason go beyond your first instinct and give to the needy person, even if you think they're panhandlers. No one would ever blame you for generosity and your innards will weigh in on this matter in a positive way that will be uplifting, if only for a moment. Do something that is gratifying to someone else, often, however small.

Let the person in line at the store with all the packages go before you, Move aside for Seniors, offer to assist a Senior, open up a spot during a bottleneck in traffic so someone else can enter or exit, pick up trash that blows around yours and your neighbor's home. Maneuver in traffic so someone else can have the advantage.

Think less of your problems and more about your blessings. Extending yourself to others means that you have the time and compassion within. As you do that, more will come to you, often disguised; nevertheless it will happen.

Emerge your being in the self that you want to be. Moderate your stress with small moves that give large returns. Allow yourself the leisure of learning to live well
under difficult circumstances. Manage your life by extending a part of it beyond your being and into others. The gift of giving has tremendous emotional rewards. Start reaping them.