5 Ways to Keep Your Mind in a Politically Charged Environment
With Election Day nearing, anxiety is knocking on some of our doors. Here are some ways I'm avoiding letting it in.
1. Morning Stillness to Start My Day Right
In the morning, I try to give myself the gift of stillness. Before reaching for my phone or diving into the fullness of the day, I carve out a quiet moment to simply be with myself. This may look like a soft meditation, a few deep breaths, or just being present with the sun as it rises. These small acts create a shield against the external noise and prepare my mind to respond, not react, to the day ahead.
How You Can Try It: Try waking up 10 minutes earlier for a moment of peace—sit by a window, breathe, or meditate. Allow yourself to ease into the day with intention, giving your heart a soft place to land.
2. Prioritizing Conversations That Uplift and Empower
In times when the atmosphere can feel heavy with opinions, debates, and fear-based narratives, I’m intentional about the energy I surround myself with. Rather than engaging in conversations that drain me, I seek those that uplift, expand, and even challenge my growth in positive ways. This week, I’m leaning into discussions with people who value growth, understanding, and hope over division.
How You Can Try It: Limit conversations that feel draining. Instead, reach out to friends or communities who offer the support, encouragement, and perspectives that inspire you.
3. Movement and Breathwork to Release Tension
Political tension can sit heavily in our bodies, even if we aren’t actively engaging in debates. I’m making it a point to release this buildup through intentional movement and breathwork. Whether it's a short workout, a walk around the block, or just a few minutes of deep breathing exercises, moving my body allows me to let go of what I cannot control and stay connected to my own well-being.
How You Can Try It: Step outside and take a walk or roll out your mat and stretch. Even a few minutes of deep breathing can reset your system. The goal here is to release physical tension so your mind can feel clearer and more present.
4. Limiting News and Social Media Consumption
This is the one. I try to keep my finger on the pulse of important current events, but I know there’s a fine line between staying informed and becoming overwhelmed. This week, I’m being mindful about how much I engage with news and social media. I actually do NOT plan to watch the results roll in. Somebody just tell me what happens, because I’m not sure I can handle watching it unfold.
And in general (even after the results), by setting boundaries—like checking headlines just once in the morning or setting a timer for social media—I’m better able to manage my mental and emotional energy.
How You Can Try It: Pick specific times to check the news or social media, and avoid doom-scrolling. Give yourself permission to disconnect, and remember that constant exposure to negativity isn’t necessary for awareness.
5. Practicing Daily Gratitude and Perspective Shifts
When the world feels chaotic, gratitude becomes my anchor. Practicing gratitude reminds me of the beauty in the small but important details, and it helps me stay grounded in what’s real, beyond the headlines. This week will rely heavily on perspective: finding the good no matter what (sometimes hard to do), and keeping my focus on what’s really within my control.
How You Can Try It: Keep a small notebook by your bed, and jot down three things you’re grateful for before going to sleep. Notice how this practice can shift your perspective, creating a sense of calm and balance, even when life feels a little wild and out of control.
And - I will absolutely be keeping at the forefront of my mind that GOD is ultimately in control, and love + goodness + righteousness will always be the ultimate winner and ruler.