The Hit List - Election season self-care

This past week, the political landscape was littered with enough terrible news to fill everyone’s sleep with dreadful dreams. I allowed a few anxious moments to creep in – but then I had to turn the news off to protect my peace. I’m not the only one. Many folks I know have already made up their minds, so there is little reason to tune in to more of the same yelling and finger-pointing that seems to be in fashion.

In election season, it’s often the case (not just in the US, mind you). Mudslinging, caustic debates, and non-stop ads…some sent directly to phones with urgent pleas for money. Sigh.

When election season is in full swing, I spend a lot of time talking other people off the wall. “How can you be so calm?” they ask. The truth is: I’m not always chill. I worry, too. But constant fretting, doomscrolling, and wringing my hands does no good. Neither does checking out with a pint of ice cream and a bottle of wine. I need to remain present, grounded, and pragmatic.

So, I’ve implemented some practices that help me. Maybe they’ll help you, too.

Here’s how I practice self-care in election season.

I limit my online access. I actually spend far less time on social media than you might think. I use a “cut and run” strategy: post, look around to see if there is anything I need to answer, then get the hell off. Also: no doomscrolling. If I find myself doing that, I cut it short. I might go look at a cat video instead.

Instead of watching the news, I read it. This way, I don’t have the newscaster’s urgent delivery adding to my anxiety. (Rachel Maddow, you’re super-smart, but you make me feel panicky. Hence, I never watch you.)

Exercise. Yep. Moving my body helps me release stress. Meditation works, too, but I find physical movement to be the best thing for my mindset. Find an exercise you can comfortably do—and do it. Can’t move your body? Breathwork is amazing. I am a regular practitioner of breath work—it helps reduce my stress.

Put up good boundaries with Negative Nellys, Debbie Downers, and Worrying Wandas. I have a few folks in my orbit who like to gripe or speak in ominous tones about the state of the world. During election season, I spend little time with these folks, both online and offline. I also hide their posts so I am not blasted with their doom ’n gloom. If they’re only coming to complain and have no interest in taking action to improve the situation, I’m not interested in that conversation. This way, I protect my mental and emotional well-being.

I also keep strict boundaries with people who have opposing views if they are aggressive. I enjoy spirited debates and learning how the other side thinks – unless those conversations turn abusive. I won’t put up with that vibe. If discussions become aggressive or disrespectful, I politely disengage. This way, I maintain a healthy and respectful dialogue, even with those who have different opinions.

I feed my head with great books, classes, music, and movies. Don’t get me wrong: I DO keep up with what’s happening, but I don’t get consumed. I grab the info I need to know so I can make choices aligned with my ethics – but then it’s time to make my brain happy. It’s all about finding a balance that keeps me informed and empowered without letting it take over my life.

I also regularly donate to good causes. Although I’ve participated in plenty of protests in the past, it doesn’t suit my introverted nature. Giving money to causes that support policies I like is a fantastic way to stay involved.

Regular energetic cleanings and cord-cutting are also part of my self-care. This doesn’t require much. You can take baths with Epsom salts, waft sacred smoke around your body/house, or use crystals to clear energy.

Lastly, I make sure to fulfill my civic duty. This means voting in every election, no matter how small. Because regardless of the outcome, it’s crucial that I do my part. It’s a powerful reminder that I have a voice and can make a difference.

Look, it’s best to never turn away, no matter what happens. The world needs you to pay attention. Some people want you to give up and check out. Don’t do that. Manage your energy well and regulate your nervous systems so you can continue to be a force of good without killing your joy or peace.

xo,
Theresa

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Want to learn the tarot basics? Check out my upcoming Tarot For Beginners course! Coming October 2nd!