In the USA we have a national and local election coming up and the stress related to that is palpable in most communities.  There is division and animosity.  Strong feelings are being played out in arguments, and in non-political spaces.  Road rage, short tempers and dismissiveness abound.  To offset that we have to make intentional choices.  Can we find lightness in all of this infuriation?  I’m working on it.  But it’s not easy.  Meditation works.  It’s not an instant fix, but the more I spend time focusing on the present the more I can stay in all the other present moments, and not get caught up in election anxiety.  Patience helps.  If I can understand that my expectation that things should go a certain way are in conflict with the reality at hand, I can calm myself down.  

I am not listening to news that instigates my ire for their ratings.  I read AllSides, https://www.allsides.com/unbiased-balanced-news, so I can understand opposing points of view and reach my own conclusions.  I also like 1440,  https://join1440.com. Neither are complete news sources, but I can follow a story if I want more.  The outline format is calming rather than activating.  I take walks, swim, and dance.  I love the arts, which immediately take me into a creative and often healing mindset.  Theater has been a balm in these times, as have museums, concerts and dance performances.  The city can be frenetic, which can heighten anxiety.  But the city is an amazing resource for the arts and green spaces that counterbalance that collective angst.  

Let us work to live with equanimity.  We may not wield political power, but when we feel that we have agency in our personal lives, we can find ease by acting in ways that align with kindness, consideration, compassion and respect.  

Self-Care Tips:

• When you find you are getting agitated, take three deep breaths.  Ask yourself if the current situation is necessary?  Do you need a break?  Can you give yourself what you need at that moment?  And, if not, ask yourself what you may need later, and when you will be able to provide that for yourself?  
• Humor is a great equalizer.  Find humor that is not harmful to others but allows you the freedom to laugh with abandon.  Think of old skits, tv shows, or comedians who have been funny from your past.  
• Create space from people in your life who are instigators.  Whether you have to walk away because they just can’t help themselves, or whether you can find ways to communicate that limit their negativity, you will feel the relief very quickly.