(Updated 11/05/24)

The big day is finally here in the U.S.--presidential election day. And while the feels are getting frantic-- especially on cable news-- that doesn't mean you have to. Here are six ways to turn election season madness into mindfulness and actually help make meaningful change:

1.) Vote-- if you haven't already!

There's (almost) nothing more important on your schedule today than exercising your right to vote. Voting may feel like a small act, but it will make a big difference-- and help you feel more hopeful, connected, and engaged.

2.) Limit media today.

It's no secret that much of what passes as news media these days is designed to produce outrage, fear, and anger. "But," you might say, "I need to stay informed!" Yes, that is true. But do you really need to check the news the moment you wake up, whenever you have a free second, and before you go to bed? Probably not. In fact, by staying constantly connected you risk burnout, which makes you less effective and more likely to tune out.

3.) Keep perspective.

While this election is monumental to the future of our nation...so was the last one. Guess what? The next one will be monumental too. Because who has power matters, and real change and damage can be wrought with the right or wrong leaders. But you can despair every time a vote doesn't go the way you want, or you can resolve to be the change you want to see in the world. Which one is more likely to make things better?

4.) Speak the change you want to see.

Hafiz said, "The words we speak become the house we live in." Instead of complaining about how divisive American politics are in the same sentence as we bash "those people" on the other side, we can resolve to bring people together with our words. When you're tempted to rant today, pause. Take a mindful breath. Picture the face of someone you know and love who votes differently from you--not the person they're voting to elect. Now, run your words through this filter: Is it kind? Is it helpful? If not, let it go.

5.) Put people first, not politics.

This is tough to do when you feel like your rights are being infringed upon by policies of the opposite party. Policies can be dangerous and threatening. But the 75-year-old man who just posted a political sign in his front yard you disagree with? Maybe not so much. Consider sharing your life with your neighbor, if appropriate, so he can see the impact his vote would have on a real person.

6.) Stay connected to your practice.

You are human--this election will push your buttons. Notice how it feels when you are triggered. You might lose sleep, feel your heartbeat racing, get pissed off, and even say something you regret (or probably should). Come back to your breath. Come back to your mat. Come back to your journal. Draw, write, paint, move, cry it out. (Apologize?) When you keep coming back to your practice, you develop resilience and the ability to show up as your wisest self more often. And that is where real change begins.

Looking for other resources to help during this election season?

Check out Braver Angels, a non-profit, bi-partisan organization dedicated to improving respectful political dialogue in America.

Yin Class, Wednesday, November 4th, 7-8 pm

Join me Wednesday night for Yin: Your Mid-week Reset, where we'll do a meditative, deep stretch practice designed to help you let go of tension and reflect on what helps you stay centered and grounded. Optional guided 15-minute journal practice after. I hope to see you there!

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