Practicing Gratitude in a Pandemic

Is it even possible to practice gratitude in the middle of a pandemic? 

Throughout this pandemic, many of us have thought, “I’m so overwhelmed”, “I have lost so much of what brought me joy”, “What is there to be grateful for, with so many challenges happening in our communities” or “Does it make me a bad person to feel gratitude when so many are suffering?” (and NO, you’re not a bad person for this).

All of these thoughts are completely normal and ones most of us are thinking, too.  It can be a huge challenge to practice gratitude at this time. But evidence suggests that when things are hard, this is actually the best time to practice gratitude. 

The best way to start a gratitude practice is start simple; What is one thing you are grateful for? Say it to yourself and write it down.

Look around and think of the things you take for granted — it could be the food in your fridge, a roof over your head, or your loving and supportive spouse/partner. What in your environment is comforting to you right now? 

If you are struggling to identify something, use your senses: consider what taste you are grateful for ( chocolate is worthy of our gratitude ) or what music you are currently into that calms you or brings you joy. 

When we take a moment to be grateful it can provide a momentary feeling of increased happiness, hope and satisfaction. These feelings in turn can make getting through challenges more attainable and provide a positive outlook in this very challenging time.