Surviving Election Season: The Mindfulness and Stress Relief Edition

Election season can often be a challenging time for everyone. The constant barrage of news updates, political discussions, and social media debates can leave us feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained. However, by prioritizing self-care and adding mindfulness into our daily routines, we can effectively navigate the stress that often accompanies elections. In this guide, we'll explore practical strategies to help you stay grounded and focused while maintaining your well-being during election season. 

Understanding Election Stress

Election stress is a well-documented phenomenon. The American Psychological Association (APA) has noted that many people report feeling stressed by the high-stakes nature of elections. From conflicting opinions with friends and family to anxiety about the future, election-related stress can manifest in numerous ways.

It’s crucial to acknowledge this stress and understand that it’s a normal response to uncertainty and change. By recognizing how elections impact our mental and emotional health, we can take active steps toward relieving stress through self-care and mindfulness.

 
The Power of Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It helps us become more aware of our thoughts, emotions as well as promotes relaxation. Integrating mindfulness into our daily lives offers a powerful way to de-stress, especially during turbulent times like an election season.
 

Mindfulness Techniques to De-Stress

1. Focused Breathing: Taking a few minutes each day to focus solely on your breathing can significantly reduce stress. Try inhaling deeply through your nose, holding your breath for a few seconds, and then exhaling slowly. Repeat this process to create a sense of calm and relaxation.
2. Body Scan Meditation: This technique involves mentally scanning your body from head to toe, acknowledging any tension or discomfort. By focusing on each part of your body, you encourage muscle relaxation and quiet a racing mind.
3. Mindful Walking: Engage in a short walk, paying attention to each step and the physical sensations that accompany it. Notice the feeling of the ground beneath your feet, the rhythm of your walking, and the flow of your breath.
4. Gratitude Journaling: Spend a few minutes each day writing down things for which you are grateful. By focusing on positive aspects of life, you can create a more positive mindset and lessen the impact of external stressors, like election season.

Self-Care Practices for Election Season

Self-care is more than just a trend—it's essential for maintaining mental and physical health, especially during stressful times. Here are several self-care strategies to consider during this election season:

Self-Care Strategies

1. Limit Media Consumption: Constant exposure to news and social media can exacerbate stress. Set boundaries for yourself to check news updates at specific times during the day or designate "media-free" periods to recharge and de-stress.
2. Maintain a Routine: Following a daily routine can provide stability amidst chaos. Prioritize activities that promote well-being, such as adequate sleep, regular meals, and hydration.
3. Connect with Nature: Spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress and improve your mood. Take a walk in the park, tend to a garden, or simply sit and enjoy the beauty of nature.
4. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity releases endorphins—which are natural mood lifters. Whether it’s yoga, jogging, Pilates or dancing around the living room, find a form of exercise that you enjoy.
5. Prioritize Sleep: A well-rested mind is better equipped to handle stress. You should aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night and establish a calming pre-bedtime routine to help you wind down.

Creating Supportive Environments

While self-care and mindfulness are very important, surrounding yourself with supportive environments and people are equally important. Here are some ways to create a positive atmosphere during election season:

Building Support Networks

1. Open Communication: Have honest conversations with your friends and family about how political discussions affect your stress levels. Try to establish boundaries that respect differing opinions while ensuring your needs are met too.
2. Seek Support Groups: Connect with communities or groups that share your views or provide you support, whether online or offline. It can be comforting to know that others are facing similar challenges.
3. Engage in Community Service: Channeling your anxiety into positive action can provide a sense of empowerment. Volunteer for causes you care about that will bring you purpose and a break from stressful thoughts.
4. Practice Empathy and Kindness: Engage with those around you with empathy and understanding. Even small acts of kindness can improve your mood and contribute to a more supportive environment.

The Bottom Line

Election season doesn’t have to drain your energy or compromise your mental health. By your embracing mindfulness practices, engaging in regular self-care, and creating a supportive network, you can de-stress and face the challenges of this period with resilience and calm.

Remember, self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity!  Prioritizing it during election season—and beyond—will help you maintain emotional balance, well-being, and a healthier perspective on the world around you.

Focus on what you can control during the elections and don’t forget to vote!