National Chicken Soup for the Soul Day celebrates who you are and how you get there. Take time to nurture your soul on November 12th. 

A little chicken soup does a lot of good. It’s warm and hearty. As we cup our hands around the bowl, the heat radiates into our bodies. The steam hits our face with a comforting aroma. Similar to what chicken soup does for our bodies, the regular nurturing of our souls benefits our health. Whether you pick up a book, meditate or go for a long walk, reflect on who you are and your achievements.

NATIONAL CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL DAY HISTORY

While the publisher and consumer goods company, Chicken Soup for the Soul began publishing in 1993 with its headquarters in Cos Cob, Connecticut, it did not create the day. The first book, as most subsequent titles in the series, was of true stories written by ordinary people about their own lives and soon became a best-seller. Since then, they have published approximately 250 books full of thousands of stories and inspiring all ages.

However, the first known publication of National Chicken Soup for the Soul Day can be found in a publication called Creative Forecasting in 2002. The listing included a suggestion to read a Chicken Soup for the Soul book to a resident. This publisher creates activity lists for retirement facilities and other organizations. What began as a newsletter in 1989 has grown to a magazine and website.

HOW TO OBSERVE #ChickenSoupForTheSoulDay

Celebrate you. Have some chicken soup and read an inspiring story. Our pages are full of them. Write an inspiring story or read one from one of the Chicken Soup for the Soul books. Other ways to celebrate the day include:

• Tell an inspiring story to a friend or family member. It will lift their spirits and remind them that you care about them.
• Try a new recipe and make it a double batch. Then share it with someone who needs some cheering up.
• Do something wholesome for yourself.
• Listen to some soulful music.
• Watch a movie with an uplifting message.

While you’re celebrating National Chicken Soup for the Soul Day, be sure to share it with someone else. Celebrations are always better together. Whether it’s via video chat or face to face, spread that warmth and cheer. Use #ChickenSoupForTheSoulDay to post on social media.

Q. Why is chicken soup so good for you?
A. When we’re sick, there are a number of things we do that help to speed up the healing process. Chicken soup does several of those things in one, steaming hot bowl. First, it helps to replenish much-needed fluids. It also contains vital nutrients that give our bodies a boost. The ingredients are easy to digest, soo our bodies can focus on healing. The broth is usually made from boiling the chicken bones which contain other healing components that help us to repair and reduce inflammation. Last, but not least, chicken soup feels and tastes good.

Q. How do I add flavor to my chicken soup?
A. Besides the standard salt and pepper, herbs and spices such as parsley, onion powder, rosemary, thyme, chives, and garlic add some of the flavors. Make a homemade broth using chicken pieces or an entire carcass. All the delicious bits of flavor will be infused into the broth.