How Gift Giving Makes Us Happy

The act of gift giving and its affect on your well-being

Did you know that buying gifts - whether for yourself or others - can actually boost your mental health? Science shows that the act of giving and receiving gifts triggers happiness, strengthens relationships, and even reduces stress. In this post, we’ll explore how a little retail therapy, thoughtful surprises, and self-care indulgences can contribute to a healthier, happier mind. So, whether you're treating a loved one or spoiling yourself, you're doing more good than you think!

Gifts as Emotional Support?

Empirical studies have demonstrated that receiving gifts can be a potent form of emotional support. Research published found that gifts are often perceived as significant sacrifices by the giver, which can enhance the recipient's emotional recovery during challenging times. This perception of sacrifice underscores the depth of care and consideration involved in gift-giving, thereby strengthening social bonds.

Have you ever experienced that warm glow that occurs immediately after you give a gift to someone? Watching them open it and brighten up - that feeling is mirrored within ourselves, it's undeniable. 

Several studies over the last decade have shown that spending money on someone other than yourself promotes happiness. That’s because when we behave generously - whether that's by donating money to charity, giving to someone in need or gifting to a loved one, it creates more interaction between the parts of the brain associated with processing social information and feeling pleasure.

Self Gifting and Mental Health

The practice of self-gifting, or purchasing items for oneself, has been associated with improved mental health outcomes. A study highlighted that younger generations, such as Millennials and Gen Z, frequently engage in self-care through small indulgences, spending significantly more weekly on treats and pampering products than older generations. These acts of self-gifting are linked to increased happiness and a greater propensity to extend kindness to others, suggesting a ripple effect of positivity stemming from self-directed generosity.

Experiences

 

Beyond tangible items, gifting experiences - such as holidays or attending events, or one of our workshop experiences - can significantly boost mental health. Research indicates that the anticipation of such experiences contributes to enhanced optimism and serves as a mental anchor during challenging times. For instance, a poll of 2,000 adults found that planning holidays significantly boosts mental health and well-being, with 80% of respondents viewing holidays as essential milestones for their mental health.

This extends to important life events such as birthdays, engagements, and anniversaries. Imagine it's your birthday and you're visiting us for a bespoke consultation. You're welcomed in, sit down to relax, a warm drink or glass of prosecco in hand, and we casually start sketching down ideas for a new necklace you've been thinking of for years. By the end of our session we'd agreed on a design, and you meet the workshop team who will be creating your one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery. You leave feeling elated and excited knowing that something you have been dreaming about for ages will finally become a reality. This is the feeling we want for all of our customers, no matter what you visit us for.

 

What can we do to help?

At the core of our business is you, the customer. We love nothing more than to see you happy, we would like to help make that happen by any means possible. Can we help you plan a proposal? Would you like us to play a part in surprising a loved one? These are things we've done time and time again; it's in our nature!

When you visit Wongs, we make it our mission to make your experience with us as enjoyable and memorable as possible. Not only that, we believe sharing your happy moments will inspire others and spread the positivity. You will see that within our Love Stories blog series that we publish on our website, or on our Instagram. Follow us here.

Conclusion

In summary, both giving gifts to others and indulging in self-gifting practices are supported by scientific research as effective means to enhance mental health. These actions not only elicit immediate positive emotions but also contribute to long-term psychological well-being by reinforcing social connections and fostering a sense of gratitude. Therefore, incorporating thoughtful gift-giving into one's routine can be a valuable tool for promoting mental and emotional health.

Book an appointment with our experts and experience Wongs Jewellers.

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