It is hard to believe that 2020 is almost over and some might say not a moment too soon. We started the year with Australia on fire and at the time it might have seemed that nothing could top an entire continent on fire. We all know what has happened since then and no doubt this has been a stressful year for many of us. To top things off, we still have an election and the holidays to contend with before we usher in 2021.
So, What Can You Do To Take the Stress Out of the Next Couple of Months?
Let’s break it down starting with the election. But before we do, take a deep breath, and realize that your vote matters and only you will know who you voted for.
Decisions, Decisions
If you have watched TV, listened to the radio, or answered the phone, you have been bombarded by political ads. Stop listening. Yes, I am serious as this is more likely to elevate your blood pressure than help you decide.
Instead, do your research by visiting the candidates’ websites or an unbiassed news site like the Associated Press. We are all human so it’s not completely without bias, but it’s consistently featured as one of the most impartial.
www.donaldjtrump.com
www.joebiden.com
www.apnews.com
Stay away from social media as this is, by far, the best way to clear your mind and it won’t help you make a better decision.
The Waiting Game
You have made up your mind, stopped listening and are now waiting for November 3. Take joy in the fact that you have more time on your hands. It is how you fill that time that can make all the difference to your health and happiness.
Record your favorite shows and fast forward through the commercials. Do not own a DVR? No problem. When the political ads come on, mute the TV.
Use this time to walk in place or, if able, do pushups, squats or sit ups. Exercise has been proven to reduce stress, elevate mood and potentially decrease your risk for cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Take a break from social media. Yes, it can be done, and I promise it will all be there when you return.
Most importantly, do not forget to vote. Not voting will likely cause regret and that won’t help reduce the stress in your life.
Feel better? Great!
Now, About How to Make the Holidays Just as Stress-Free as the Election.
Before we talk about what can be done, think about this:
What causes you the most stress during the holidays?
What can you do differently this year to remove that stress?
How awesome would your holidays be if all you had to do was focus on enjoying your family and friends?
What causes you stress maybe be different, but does any of this sound familiar?
The relative that likes to discuss politics, religion, or anything else controversial. Avoid the arguments and instead make it fun by using the “swear jar” strategy. Every time one of those subjects is brought up, that person donates $5 to the jar and the person with the most contributions picks the charity to donate the money to.
Everyone is on their devices and not appreciating all the work you have done for the big day. Collect everyone’s phone and instead keep them occupied with a scavenger hunt and series of clues that leads them to their last gift.
The stress of having to shop for the perfect gift for everyone. Let it go and take comfort in the fact that even the best of intentions may lead to them returning the gift. Instead of giving a gift card, make time to shop with them, either online or in the store. They will appreciate the fact that you want to see the joy on their face when they pick out exactly what they want.
What Else Can You Do?
Sleep one extra hour every night. Sleep is a vital, often neglected, component of every person’s overall health and well-being. Sleep is important because it gives your body time to repair and be ready for the next day. Ideally, your body needs between 7-8 hours every night, but for now start with adding just one more hour. This small change can make all the difference for how you navigate the stress of the election and holidays.
I hope this helps you finish 2020 with a smile on your face and less stress in your life. Be well and enjoy!
Nick Pione is a local business owner, blog writer and natural wellness expert. He co-founded Trek CBD and contributes to medium.com and trekcbd.com. For more information please contact him at nickpione@trekvitality.com
