So whether you buy gifts, volunteer your time, or donate money to charity, your giving is much more than just a one off chore. It may help you build stronger social connections and even jumpstart a cascade of generosity through your community.

Research has also demonstrated the link between social relationships and many different aspects of health and wellness.

Kindness can become a self-reinforcing habit requiring less and less effort to exercise.

The good news is that a simple act of kindness can reward our bodies and minds with feel-good chemical substances. However, the effect isn't lasting.