In the Studio at the moment, some of our members are participating in a Longevity Lifestyle Challenge. This lifestyle reset is inspired by the Blue Zones and their secrets to longevity.
Read on to discover how volunteering can be a long-term investment in your health!
This morning, I had the privilege of volunteering my time to welcome families and their gorgeous children to kids' church. As I was there, smiling, encouraging & greeting new families I realised why volunteering is a marker for longevity in the Blue Zones—regions known for their high concentration of centenarians and overall well-being.
It turns out that helping others benefits our health, just as it benefits those we serve through volunteering. Meeting like-minded people, and creating a new circle of social networks improves our lives and the community as a whole.
Finding Purpose Through Volunteering
For me, sharing my time and skills with others ties back to my purpose statement, something we crafted in our first week of the Longevity Lifestyle challenge. Part of my purpose statement was about encouraging others and helping them feel seen. I want to draw out the gold in people, especially those who might not recognise their own value or gold within themselves.
Using Your Skills to Serve
I volunteer my time by serving in various roles—whether it's in kids' church, on the welcome team, or in the café. These roles allow me to utilise my skills, be a smiling face, and offer words of encouragement. Volunteering isn't a duty for me; it’s a joy that aligns with my purpose and brings fulfillment. I believe it can do this for you, too!
Steve and I have also volunteered at our local parkrun, painting fences at Kindy and the good old Easter Fest as face painters (that one really did NOT fit inside of my skill set!)
The Joy of Outworking Your Purpose
When you volunteer with the intention of fulfilling your purpose, it transcends mere obligation. It becomes a source of joy and satisfaction. There's something profoundly rewarding about using your talents and time to make a difference in others' lives.
Finding Opportunities to Volunteer
If you're struggling to find an organisation to volunteer with, consider how you can be generous with your time and skills in other ways this week. Here are a few ideas:
Cooking: If you're an amazing cook, bless a friend with a homemade meal.
Helping Hand: Offer to help someone move or tidy their garden.
Acts of Kindness: Visit a friend and help them fold their laundry.
The Impact of Living for Others
Volunteering doesn’t have to be grandiose. Small acts of kindness can have a significant impact. When you live for others, your perspective shifts. You start to experience a sense of gratitude, thankfulness, and peace.
Living for others fosters a deeper connection with your community and enhances your own well-being. It’s no wonder that volunteering is linked to longevity in the Blue Zones. The act of giving your time and skills not only enriches the lives of others but also brings profound benefits to your own life.
So, take a moment this week to consider how you can volunteer your time or skills. Whether it's through a structured organisation or small, everyday acts of kindness, you have the power to make a difference. And in doing so, you might just find a greater sense of purpose and joy in your own life.
Dani x
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