In March 2017, Kent State University’s Employee Wellness department started a March Month of Gratitude, and The Gratitude Graffiti Project was their vehicle for spreading the love at multiple sites. With close to 100 locations spread over seven campuses (phew!), they had an amazing response.
Click here for a link to their website and click on the image to view the slideshow of AMAZING images. What is so impressive is how they modified the project to each location so whatever worked best was used: glass windows vs poster boards and post- it notes. We have always believed that the medium of expression is secondary to the what is actually expressed and we also believe that the art is already there, given how many people participate and all their different styles, thoughts and creativity that are expressed. It is truly an example of what a great community Kent State University cultivates.
You can also go directly to the Flickr webpage for a slideshow of the pictures.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/134021162@N06/33828192641/in/album-72157681686800945
Here is what they say on their website about the benefits of gratitude on health:
WHY IS PRACTICING GRATITUDE SO IMPORTANT?
Over the past decade, hundreds of studies have documented the social, physical, and psychological benefits of practicing gratitude. Even in the midst of adversity, such as coping with a chronic illness, or other crisis, we know that practicing gratitude can:
- Bring us happiness. Practicing gratitude is the most reliable method for increasing happiness and life satisfaction
- Boosts feelings of optimism, joy, pleasure, enthusiasm, and other positive emotions
- Reduces anxiety and depression
- Good for our bodies: Research suggests that it strengthens the immune system, lowers blood pressure, reduces symptoms of illness, and makes us less bothered by aches and pains
- Encourages us to exercise more and take better care of our health
- Helps us to sleep better: If you want to sleep more soundly, count blessings, not sheep
- Makes us more resilient, promotes forgiveness and compassion
- Engages the community and fosters connections and relationship-building within the community
Thank you to Kim Hauge, Director of Employee Wellness and all the staff and students at Kent State University! We hope you will join us again!
