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Altruism, trust, cooperation and compassion are necessary components of a harmonious and well-functioning society. Also, these qualities were useful for the physical and mental health of a person, according to the results of a new study.
In total, about 198 participants were involved in it. It was conducted by an international research team from the University of Hong Kong, Shu Yan University of Hong Kong, Anglia Ruskin University and the University of Cambridge.
At the same time, the article clarifies that random acts of kindness, such as helping neighbors with groceries, are more closely related to overall health than weekly volunteering at an organization. These random acts, called “informal donations,” tend to be more varied and less likely to be monotonous. They can also lead to the creation of new social connections, which will then benefit both physical and psychological health.
In addition, scientists have found a stronger connection between kindness and "eudaemonic well-being" - focusing on realizing one's potential and finding the true meaning of life instead of happiness or positive emotions. A particularly high percentage of this connection was observed in young people. Older groups felt a greater impact of kindness on their physical condition. It has also been shown that women of all ages have a stronger connection between good deeds and health than men.
