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Easy does it: 5 ways to weather political uncertainty

Let’s face it: Our modern political atmosphere, particularly at the national level, is a nonstop rollercoaster ride that is leaving many Americans stressed and anxious. The constant stream of news updates, social media debates, and political drama can make it hard to find calmness and peace. There are, of course, ways to manage your anxiety and find peace, even when everything seems chaotic. Here are five ways to help you find peace and calm, and to stay centered.

1. Cut down on news consumption.

Staying informed is important in a democratic society. But there’s a limit to how much we can absorb before we’re overwhelmed. Constantly checking the news can go from curious to unhealthy fairly quickly, so try setting specific times to catch up on the news. Maybe it’s once in the morning and once in the evening, like it used to be in the days before digital media. Stick to reliable sources and steer clear of clickbait headlines that can spike your anxiety – if someone is trying to make you angry, upset, or anxious, they’re doing it for a reason. So set boundaries on your news intake. The goal is to stay informed, not to be bombarded into submission by an endless stream of “content.”

2. Try mindfulness and meditation.

For managing anxiety, particularly the type that is created by national news headlines, mindfulness and meditation can be game-changers. These practices help you focus on the present moment, which can reduce worries about the future or regrets about the past. Incorporate a few minutes of mindfulness into your day with deep breathing exercises, guided meditations, or even a short walk where you pay attention to your surroundings. Even a little bit every day can make a big difference.

3. Get moving.

You knew this one was coming. Exercise is a natural way to relieve stress and boost your mood. Physical activity releases endorphins, the feel-good chemicals in our brains. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, dancing, or hitting the gym for some high-intensity cardio, find a physical activity you enjoy and make it part of your routine. Regular exercise can help you feel more balanced and less anxious.

4. Connect with others.

Human connections are crucial for democracy, and they’re crucial for our mental well-being. Reach out to friends and family, or join a support group to share how you’re feeling. Offering your thoughts and worries to others can help you feel less alone and more supported. Plus, participating in positive social activities, like volunteering or community events, can shift your focus from anxiety to something more uplifting.

5. Focus on what you can control.

It’s easy to feel powerless during times of political uncertainty. So instead of stressing over things you can’t change, focus on what you can control. This could be organizing your daily tasks, setting personal goals, or getting involved in local projects. Putting your energy into productive activities gives you a sense of purpose and control – and can help ease feelings of helplessness.
The rapid ups and downs of the political world can be tough to handle, but taking care of your mental health is key. The good news is that the steps outlined above are tried-and-true methods to manage anxiety and find calm amid the chaos. Remember, your well-being matters.