Finding Calm and Clarity Through Self-Care
This year, I decided to vote early by mail.
I wanted to avoid the protestors and negativity so I decided this year to cast my vote in the comfort of my own home. Like many of you, I feel the tension that election seasons can bring, especially this one so I wanted to help offer some solutions to counter your worry.
7 Tips for Managing Election Season Stress
This is a very stressful time for so many. It's a great time to turn up your self-care!
Here are some tips to help you get some relief from stress and prioritize your well-being:
1. Limit Your News Consumption
It’s important to stay informed, but it’s easy to get sucked into a never-ending news cycle. Set specific times during the day to check the news, and stick to it. Consider following reliable sources and avoiding sensationalist headlines that thrive on anxiety.
2. Unplug from Social Media - take breaks and find positive sources
Social media can amplify stress, especially around political discussions. If scrolling makes you anxious, try limiting your time on social platforms or even taking a full social media break until things settle down. You can also find positive influencers, causes you care about, or things that make you laugh.
3. Engage in Mindful Activities
Staying mindful can help ground you during stressful times.
This could be anything from deep breathing exercises, meditation,
or simple activities like coloring, reading, knitting, or cooking.
4. Prioritize Self-Care
When anxiety runs high, self-care is essential. Take care of your body by getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising regularly. Consider adding small self-care practices throughout your day, like a short walk, a quick stretch, or enjoying a cup of tea without distractions.
5. Connect with People that Bring You Joy
Talking with friends and family who are supportive is a great way to get through stressful times. Whether it's about your concerns are to distract from your worries, seeking ways to provide comfort is the goal.
6. Focus on What You Can Control
Election outcomes can feel overwhelming, especially because they’re out of our direct control. Instead of getting caught up in the ‘what ifs,’ focus on what you can do. That could mean casting your vote, volunteering for a cause you care about, or having respectful conversations with those around you. Taking action, even in small ways, can provide a sense of empowerment.
Practice Gratitude
In times of uncertainty, gratitude can shift our mindset. Reflect on what you’re thankful for each day, no matter how small. This practice can remind you of the positive aspects of your life that remain unchanged, regardless of the political climate.
Find Healthy Distractions
Distractions can be a welcome escape from stress. Dive into a book, start a new hobby, or binge-watch a feel-good series. Giving your mind a break from constantly thinking about the election can help you recharge.
Focus on the Present
Worrying about future outcomes can heighten anxiety. Instead, focus on what you can do now. When your mind starts to spiral, try grounding exercises like the 5-4-3-2-1 technique: identify. 5 things you see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you hear,
2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste.
7. Consider a Break from Alcohol 💫
It’s easy to reach for a drink when stress hits, but from my experience, taking a break from alcohol can make a big difference. While it may seem like a quick fix, alcohol can actually increase anxiety over time and in the moment it can act like pouring gasoline on a fire. With LAF, we try healthier alternatives that make you feel good, inside and out.
Other things I personally do:
I hardly watch the news. I stay informed, but I don’t get sucked into the endless cycle.
I turn up the dial on what brings me joy: unplugging on my daily walk, reading fiction, or watching a TV show!
I check in with my kids to talk about what’s happening.
I count my blessings and do what I can to help and spread kindness where I can.
Living alcohol-free has brought me more calm, especially during stressful times. Instead of reaching for a drink, I lean into activities that truly relax and recharge me.
Make a plan for the 5th and days leading up and after!
Schedule self-care appointments
Time with friends and family
Get out in nature
Take a break
Breathe
A friendly reminder, this too shall pass :)
Seeking help from a professional is always a good idea!
Part of what I do is help you decide next steps
and if finding a therapist is part of that plan,
I can help you do that too.
Email me, let's chat. You are not alone 🫶
💛 Coach Courtney | courtney@pmacoaching.com
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