Take a deep breath. Election Day is finally in sight but nearly everyone in the U.S. is troubled by an especially stressful election season. In difficult times, mindfulness practices can help you put things in perspective and find strength in moments of uncertainty.
We turned to some of our friends who know a thing or two about mindfulness for advice on finding peace during tumultuous timeS. Here are their tips for cultivating mindfulness on your way to the ballot box:
“The hurtful and harmful speech we’ve been hearing makes some of us feel angry, sad, and anxious about the future and about other people. As an antidote, learn to pay attention to everyday beneficial kindnesses that are extended to you and that you extend to others. You’ll be surprised to notice how many you have in just in one day; the door you held open for a stranger, the funny store clerk who made you laugh, the gratitude you felt when your boss encouraged you. Mindfulness to all these positive interactions helps inspire confidence in our collective ability to take care of each other, and empowers us to meet difficult problems without becoming discouraged or overwhelmed.”
“Remember to breathe. When you are outside, look at the vast sky and smell the crisp autumn air. When you are inside, shut your eyes and feel the life in your own body. Wherever you are, remember there is a truth that is deeper than these torrents of words.”“Remember to breathe. When you are outside, look at the vast sky and smell the crisp autumn air. When you are inside, shut your eyes and feel the life in your own body. Wherever you are, remember there is a truth that is deeper than these torrents of words.”
“Ask yourself: what are the most important issues that this election season has brought to my attention? In addition to voting, what other ways can I express my care and support what matters to me most? Getting into action by donating time, energy, and resources to support what is important to us can help us to find power when we feel powerless. And when we have done so, we can joyfully reflect on our wholesome contributions, remembering the countless others who are joining us in their own way.”
What are you doing to stay mindful during this election season and beyond? Attend our special Mindfulness Meditation program, Election Exhale with Kate Johnson on November 9, the day after Election Day.
Can’t attend in person? You can catch a special livestream of the event on Facebook.
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