Happy Genes

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It’s well known that “making a difference” makes us happier and healthier: people who volunteer live longer. Now a new study finds that your body might know this on a molecular level. The specific type of happiness you derive from pursuing a greater purpose positively influences the genes in your immune system. “People whose happiness comes primarily from doing good for others, rather than from hedonistic, self-satisfaction, show a much more favorable gene profile, with less inflammation and better antibody and antiviral activity,” says lead researcher Steven W. Cole, Ph.D., professor of medicine at UCLA. No need to get lofty. “It can be as simple as investing more time with your grandchildren – whatever you care about.”
– From the Dec.-Jan. 2014 issue of AARP (American Association of Retired Persons)

Well, don’t just sit there, go out and help someone!