![]() You’ll also likely become part of a community of other volunteers.”ī/volunteer Buy a retro Christmas jumper It’s a small commitment with the potential to inject great meaning and joy into Christmas. “What better way to head into 2024 than giving children the reading skills and confidence they need for a fair chance in life? Volunteering offers structure, a sense of purpose and the opportunity to give back. “Christmas is a time of goodwill to everyone, especially children,” says Jenny Cater, volunteer attraction and engagement manager at Bookmark. You’ll reap the mental and physical rewards and, more importantly, make someone’s day.” “Care home volunteers cover all sorts of tasks, from helping organise activities to running book clubs, becoming a befriender and going shopping for residents. ![]() “There are many ways to volunteer with the elderly including at your local care home or through Age UK,” he says. ![]() Studies have shown supporting a cause that’s meaningful to you is linked to higher levels of happiness and lower stress as the body releases endorphins that reduce anxiety and lower blood pressure.”ĭonnelly also suggests volunteering at a care home this Christmas. “Volunteers are much-needed and it’s a fulfilling and free way to give back to your community. “Charities and community groups working at a local level are expecting an extremely busy Christmas this year,” says Steve Butterworth, CEO of Neighbourly. It allows you to step away from commercialism and reconnect with others while surrounding yourself with compassion, kindness and community.” Volunteering establishes connection and reminds us that we’re all part of something bigger. “There are a variety of ways to help out at your local homeless shelter or food bank, collect toys for children in need and even take part in community Christmas events. “If you are experiencing the latter, volunteering could help to bring more balance into your life. “Christmas is a time for joy and celebrations, but it can also bring feelings of stress and anxiety,” says psychologist Dr Ree Langham from Impulse Therapy. News When is Mad Friday? How pre-Christmas night of partying got its name Read More So while bringing smiles to others’ faces is reward enough, you’ll be enhancing your own emotional health as well. “Research reveals acts of kindness trigger the brain’s ‘helper’s high,’ releasing feel-good endorphins that boost our mood. “The festive season offers so many meaningful ways we can give back while also boosting our own sense of joy and purpose,” Mike Laauwe, founder of Positive Thinking Mind and a certified master life coach. Contributing to a larger cause will give you a sense of purpose and fulfilment.” This is a great time of year to do things for other people (Photo: Vladimir Vladimirov/Getty) Embrace helpers’ high ![]() “You could organise a bake sale, a coffee morning, a garage sale, a music gig or a virtual pub quiz. “Why not raise funds for a local charity of your choice or a cause you believe in?” says Kaur. “To beat the winter blues, why not volunteer at a care home or give back to your local carers?” Host a fundraiser “Many older adults are at risk of social isolation in the winter months, especially at Christmas, which can increase their likelihood of experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and leave them feeling very alone,” says Will Donnelly, co-founder at Lottie. It allows for an appreciation and gratitude for what we already have.” “Helping others can shift our perspective on life.
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