Galatians 6:9 (ESV), And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.
While it was not an exceptionally cold or snowy winter, many people look forward to running again outside without the snow, ice, and cold. When I was younger, I would go for long run and experience what is called a “runner’s high.” This occurs after intense or lengthy exercise and the body releases hormones called endorphins. (Runner's High: What It Is, How You Get It, and Other Benefits (healthline.com)
Have you ever heard of a “Helper’s high?” According to James Barza and Shoshana Alexander, Feb. 1, 2010; they published an article called, “The Helper’s High.” They stated that, “Suffering is inevitable, but responding to pain with compassion, care, and generosity is key to a joyful life.” (The Helper’s High | Greater Good (berkeley.edu). The Helper’s High is similar to the runner’s high and the body releases endorphins in the brain when a person willingly helped others. The release of the endorphins produced happier thoughts and person was more relaxed.
Sharon Begley in her book, Train Your Mind, Change Your Brain, reports that “When you tune in to another’s suffering and send out compassionate thoughts to them, rather than draining you, it actually fills you up with more energy.”
As Spring comes and we return to outside activities such as running, I challenge you to consider the Helper’s High all year round.
CH (COL) Brett Charsky, State Chaplain (802) 318-0692