You’ve done everything you can—campaigning, donating, staying informed. Now, with the U.S. Presidential election just days away and polls too close to predict, many of us are waiting with anxious energy. But what if you redirected that energy toward something more meaningful? What if, instead of engaging in another conversation about politics, you focused on caring for yourself?
Why Self-Care Matters:
Self-care rituals support your physical health, emotional well-being, and social connections. They help reduce stress, elevate your mood, and promote better sleep—leaving you more grounded and refreshed.
Choose One Self-Care Ritual to Start Today:
Meditate:
Begin with a few minutes of quiet meditation each morning. Start small—just 2 to 5 minutes. Get comfortable, focus on your breath, and let your thoughts pass without judgment. The key is consistency.
Walk:
Take a daily walk and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and sensations around you. Leave the headphones behind—notice the light, the breeze, and how your body moves with each step.
Eat Nutritiously:
Focus on whole foods over processed ones, add more vegetables, and reduce sugar. Small steps—like swapping one snack or adding a veggie side—can make a big difference over time.
Thank Someone Every Day:
Don’t just think about gratitude—express it. Whether it’s a quick email, a thoughtful text, or a warm thank you to a store clerk, showing appreciation connects us.
Prioritize Sleep:
Create a calming bedtime routine. Turn off screens at least 30 minutes before bed, and choose a relaxing ritual like reading or meditating. Keep your room cool, dark, and quiet.
Make Small Changes:
- Start with One:
Choose just one change and commit to it. Doing one thing well is better than spreading yourself too thin. - Keep it Manageable:
Make your new habit easy to sustain—for example, a 5-minute walk or adding one extra vegetable to dinner are easy to incorporate.
Ready for More?
If you’re mastering one practice, try another—or deepen your current one. Maybe extend your meditation time or explore new walking routes.
Imagine what two weeks of self-care could do for you. What new or expanded rituals will leave you feeling more nourished, grounded, and ready—no matter the election results?
I’d love to hear how it goes. Drop me a line at cindyshove@gmail.com and let me know what you try!
love,
Cindy
P.S. I’m refreshing my blog and I hope you like the shorter posts. Website refresh to follow.
Cindy Shove 