November 07, 2016
There are so many things happening in the background of our lives that affect our health. Many of us do not even recognize these agitators, let alone know how to manage them. Mindfulness provides perspective because it is the skill of deep observation that allows you to be in touch with and identify what external factors that may be causing internal problems.
According to a recent survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, “more than 52 percent of Americans reported that this Presidential Election is causing them significant stress.”
That number is astounding, yet not surprising. I, too, feel directly affected by the things I hear and see on the news. The coverage of this vicious election has been anxiety-inducing to say the least. Partly because most of us are tapped into a 24-hr news cycle via social media and it is easy to take on things that you see, even if you are just skimming. The crescendo of political messaging has become borderline unbearable.
The good news is, on the eve of this election, you can manage your stress level by implementing these 5 mindful tips, adapted from the APA’s guide, to help you in the final hours and beyond:
Take a digital break. I always have to remind myself, "put the phone down.” We are so glued to our phones so we need to remember to take some time to disconnect. I keep my phone in the other room on the charger when I have an important task to do, so as not to be interrupted. I also like putting it in the other room while I cook and eat dinner, so I enjoy it and that time becomes more sacred to me.
Don’t engage in election conversation. Sometimes I hear people talking and I often don’t agree with what they are saying. Rather than getting in an argument, I prefer not to give it more negative energy by responding. Even when people press me for my political opinions, I usually give a general response. Arguing with people (in person or online) is the easiest way to get your stress level elevated, so steer clear of engaging in these types of conversation.
Worry is like paying interest on a problem. Someone wise once told me, “worrying is like paying interest on a problem.” In other words, if you have a problem, you have a problem. You will eventually have to face it. Worrying about a problem only drains more resources into that problem that may or may not happen. Specifically pertaining to this election, life will go on no matter what after November 8th. Our political system and three branches of government are sophisticated enough to sustain and a transition of power.
Get involved locally. Many people think they are helpless because they feel out of control in terms of what they can do to contribute to this outcome. There are local elections in which you can get involved and, in many cases, you can be much more impactful locally. Contact your city or local municipality to see how you can get involved. In Philadelphia, @phillysetgo is a amazing organization that aims to engage millennial voters and educate them on important political issues.
Vote. The last, and most important thing you can do is cast your vote. This will ensure that you have no regrets, regardless of the results. Also, you will feel a sense of accomplishment for your contribution.
I hope these tips help you as much as they have helped me.
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I will continue to keep you posted on my health journey. Please feel free to share below or tweet me @christiemandia.
