30 Day Gratitude Challenges are becoming more popular, and for good reason. Multiple studies show that making a regular practice of gratitude has a positive effect on both our mental and physical health from increasing happiness, decreasing depression, to improving cardiovascular and immune health. Practicing gratitude even has a positive impact on our relationships; improving our ability to be more empathic, generous, and work through conflict.
Expressing gratitude is an easy exercise we can use to change our personal narrative. Identifying and appreciating our blessings can change our outlook and the culture from one of scarcity and comparison to one of abundance. And even more amazing, nothing outside of ourselves has to change to reap the benefits! Practicing gratitude is not about denying the challenging, painful experiences in our lives, but seeing the whole picture, noticing the fleeting moments of happiness, the support that sustains us, lessons learned, the connection we have to others and to something larger than ourselves.
When do you feel grateful? Please join me this November for a 30 Days of Gratitude Challenge. Post a picture (old or new) everyday of what you feel grateful for with the hashtag #30daysofgratitude. You can follow me on Instagram or Facebook @creativecounselingqc to see my posts. Don't worry if you miss days or join us mid-month, just start. Please note, pictures need not be perfect! Let's be grateful for all the amazing imperfect bits and pieces that make up our lives. I can't wait to see your posts and even more, can't wait to hear what the experience is like after 30 days. Thanks for joining me! I'm feeling grateful already!