David Hamilton, a PhD in organic chemistry (and author of seven books, no less), explains how paying it forward lowers your risk of heart disease. Living from the heart is good for the heart; kindness from yourself to others inspires a ripple effect, leading them to have a compassionate attitude.

Chemically speaking, a positive side effect of empathy is the hormone associated with warm contact—oxytocin. This powerful neuromodulator lowers blood pressure, causing our entire cardiovascular system to expand; the heart and arteries literally begin to grow. Two sizes too big. Like the Grinch.

Hamilton argues that we are genetically wired to be kind, not selfish, and that we don’t do nice things to get them in return; we do nice things because it’s the proper way of life.

Image provided by Tal Gertin

Sourced: TedxTalks

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