At 93, Draper man finds health and happiness in giving

DRAPER — This Christmas, giving back may do more than spread holiday cheer. Experts say volunteering and acts of kindness can enhance your physical and mental well-being.

Lowell Baum, 93, has seen those benefits firsthand.

For decades, he has been crafting elaborate 9-foot trees to donate to the Festival of Trees, a fundraiser benefiting Primary Children's Hospital. Each year brings a new design, with past themes ranging from Candyland Express and The Queen of Snow to a traditional Nutcracker tree. This year alone, Baum and his family created seven trees.

And his creativity doesn't stop there: Baum fills his home with floral arrangements that he gives to anyone who might need a smile.

"It's fun to think that I have been and am doing things that will impact someone," Baum said.

Research shows that acts of generosity not only benefit the receiver but can also boost your mental and physical health.

"When we are giving to others, our brain will produce endorphins — dopamine specifically — that makes us feel good," said Deanna Weeks, a clinical mental health counselor with Intermountain Health.

Giving has been shown to lower stress and anxiety, reduce blood pressure and increase longevity.

And experts say the benefits aren't limited to the holiday season.

"We can give throughout the year — we don't have to do all of our giving in one time period," Weeks said.

For Baum, helping others is simply part of his daily life.

"Every day is a good day for me," he said.

He's already started on next year's tree for the Festival of Trees.

"I think giving is the way to do it," Baum said. "The more you can give, the better it is, as far as I'm concerned."

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