10 Care Tips for Election Week (and beyond)
Photo by Quinn Corte.
A lot of us are super-duper emotionally invested in the US election, and it feels very personal and very triggering.
Whatever you are or aren't feeling is perfect. You aren't alone and you are doing great.
When times are toughest, we can choose to show up for ourselves and others with immense patience and kindness. This is how we build resilience individually and collectively.
Here are 10 gentle suggestions for how to care for yourself and others this week (and always).
1. Savor simple pleasures. Treat yourself and loved ones to lingering on the enjoyment of meals, snuggles, funny TV shows, comforting warm drinks, your favorite outfits, and other delights.
2. Come back to the basics. If things get hard, you can check in with yourself and others. What does your body need? Have you showered? Moved? Gone outside? Eaten? Had a glass of water? Gotten enough sleep? Taken a deep breath?
3. Practice compassion. However you are feeling is valid and can be met with inner kindness. Likewise, remember that everyone's needs and emotions are different and valid.
4. Be intentional and know your limits. Instead of feeding the frenzy or going through your week on auto-pilot, remember that you are in charge of your news intake. It's OK to set boundaries, even within your own household.
5. Try to stay present. While it's important to stay informed and be prepared, spinning into fear-based "what if" scenarios will not serve you or anyone else. Invite others to come back to the present moment.
6. Practice surrendering control. At a certain point, you can't do anymore. The results are out of your control, and you can release your grip and surrender it to the universe. Especially if you are an activist, remember your self-worth is not tied to the election outcome.
7. Don't forget gratitude. Research shows that shifting your focus to be grateful for small things in your day helps alleviate negative thought loops. Try expressing gratitude to someone you appreciate.
8. Honor the inner child. If you or your loved ones’ tenderest wounds get triggered, remember that is normal and practice meeting them with softness and compassion.
9. Know how to soothe yourself. Give yourself whatever makes you feel better. When all else fails, put a hand on your heart, take a few deep breaths, and try repeating, "I am safe" or "Everything is going to be OK."
10. Stay connected. Don't suffer alone. Reach out to your support system for socially distant walks or video chats. Remember that we are all in this together, and this time of tension is challenging but temporary.
What is working best for you right now? Leave a comment below!
P.S. To hear my collective tarot reading for Election Day, check it out here. For a 10-minute meditation on grounding and surrender, listen here.