People Donate More to Charity After a Good Night’s Sleep Xantha Leatham - Xantha Leatham
go to original March 12, 2024

Research suggests your likelihood of giving money to charity could be driven by how well you've slept the night before. (Akos Nagy/Shutterstock)

We all have days when we feel particularly generous, while on other occasions we may prefer to keep our money to ourselves.

Now, research suggests your likelihood of giving money to charity could be driven by how well you've slept the night before.

Researchers from the University of Bern, in Switzerland, recruited 54 adults for their study into 'prosocial behavior' – actions people take to benefit others.

Participants' brain activity was recorded using electrodes during a normal night of sleep and the next day they took part in a game.

During the game, they were given points equating to real money and were asked to decide whether they wanted to keep it or contribute any of it to the 'public good.'

A good quality sleep is usually defined by being able to fall asleep quickly – within 15 minutes – and staying asleep without waking too many times during the night.

People who have good quality sleep are more likely to report feeling rested and refreshed throughout the day, and say they are satisfied with the sleep they get each night.

Previous research, carried out by scientists at the University of Calgary, has also found that there is a 'significant relationship' between an individual's quality of sleep and their ability to feel empathy for others.

See the original at The Daily Mail

Related: Healthy Practices for Your Physical and Mental Well-Being (PVAngels)