Taking Care of Yourself After the Election
The results are in, and for many of us, waking up today was... let's just say, less than ideal. If you're feeling disappointed, anxious, or just plain low, you're definitely not alone. The emotions that come up during times like this can be overwhelming, and it's crucial to give yourself the space to feel them—fully and unapologetically. Today, I invite you to take a moment to acknowledge whatever emotions are surfacing. (Yes, even the ones that make you want to shout at the TV.)
Make Space for Your Feelings:
Try a simple meditation: Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and take some slow, deep breaths. As you breathe, notice what you're feeling without judgment—anger, sadness, fear, or confusion—whatever comes up is okay. Imagine each emotion as a wave that rises and falls. Let it pass through you. This practice can help you stay present and not get stuck in any one feeling. (And no, it doesn't make everything magically better—but it does help.)
Reframing Challenges:
While today may feel like we're collectively living in a soap opera plot twist, it's worth remembering that moments of difficulty often hold opportunities for growth and positive change. Challenges push us to think differently, take action, and grow. This is an opportunity to strengthen your voice, to advocate for what you care about, and to stand for compassion and justice. Difficult times can bring about powerful, transformative energy—energy that helps us push boundaries and stand up for reform.
Grounding Practices for the Nervous System:
If you're feeling anxious or out of control, grounding yourself is a great way to care for your nervous system. Here are a few techniques to help:
1. Earthing: Go outside and put your bare feet on the ground—whether it's grass, soil, or sand. "Earthing" is a practice that connects you with the Earth's natural energy, which can help calm and balance your body. Spending even 10-15 minutes outside, with your feet on the earth, can reduce stress and bring a sense of peace and connection. Plus, it’s a good excuse to get some fresh air—bonus points if you wave at your neighbors while muttering, "Just grounding myself."
2. Transcendending Meditation: Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and silently repeat a soothing word or sound—a mantra—for about 10-20 minutes. This kind of meditation can help you let go of the constant mental chatter and find some calm amid the chaos. Over time, it can help you feel more at peace, even in uncertain situations. (And let's be honest, we could all use a little less mental chatter right now.)
3. Osho’s Pillow Throwing Exercise: If you're feeling angry or frustrated, try this: Grab a pillow, and throw it down onto the ground with as much force as you can. Allow yourself to feel and release the anger in a safe way. You can even shout or make a sound as you do it. This activity can be a great release, helping you move through those intense emotions and feel lighter afterward. And hey, it’s cheaper than therapy—or a new TV to replace the one you were tempted to throw something at.
Hope on the Horizon:
It’s easy to feel hopeless during times like these, but remember, this situation is temporary. History shows us that new ideas and positive movements often arise from challenging, even horrible circumstances. From the struggles we face, resilience and hope can grow. We can’t always control the outcomes around us, but we can control how we move forward, how we connect, and how we transform difficulty into opportunity.
