Taking Care of Yourself During Election Season

The Election & All the Feels

I'm not one to discuss my political views, but this election season has tremendously affected many people I know, including myself. Election outcomes stir various emotions, from excitement and hope to anger and frustration. With everything going on, it’s essential to care for our emotional and mental health and maintain balance as we process our reactions and those of others.

Helpful Tactics

Here are seven strategies that have helped me stay grounded and resilient during this befuddling period:

1. Acknowledge your feelings.

Whatever you feel—relief, disappointment, or something in between—is valid. Allow space for yourself to feel them without judgment. Recognizing these emotions can reduce their intensity and help you feel more at ease. It's ok not to be ok. Feel your feelings.

2. Limit media exposure.

Constant updates and discussions from the news can be overwhelming and disturbing, especially in the fast-paced world we live in today. Consider limiting your media consumption from once a day to once every few days. Maybe even up to once a week. This can help you stay informed without feeling overloaded with [negative] information.

3. Engage in calming activities.

Meditation, deep breathing exercises, listening to soothing music, going on a nature walk, and yoga are excellent tools for grounding myself during emotional and anxiety-provoking moments. Find activities that bring calmness to your life.

4. Take social media breaks.

Social media can intensify our emotional and mental health, especially during election season, when many opinions and debates are heated. Consider limiting time spent scrolling or taking a break altogether. These reductions and breaks from social media help me regain control over my sanity. Periodically, I just log in to post for ToL and then quickly log off.

5. Focus on self-care.

Make self-care a priority. Small acts of self-care, such as cooking a favorite meal, reading a good book, journaling, or getting some fresh air outdoors, can help recharge your well-being. I practice self-care ALL THE TIME!

6. Connect with supportive people

Talking with like-minded people who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly beneficial. Lean on those who offer support without judgment. I'm grateful for my inner circle, whom I can lean on when I need someone to vent to or discuss sensitive topics. I am forever appreciative that they honor, respect, and love me for who I am.

7. Practice mindfulness and gratitude.

Mindfulness techniques can help you stay anchored in the present moment when stress levels rise. Practicing gratitude, such as writing down three things you’re thankful for daily, will help you shift your focus to the positives in your life. My annual Thankful Challenge has been a cornerstone during this tumultuous month. Gratitude changes everything!

Take Care of YOU!

Maintaining emotional and mental wellness is an ongoing journey. Be kind to yourself, be patient, stay grounded, and connect with what brings you strength and peace. Navigating this time together with compassion and self-care can make all the difference. You are NOT alone.

Cheers!

Gini x

17 November 2024