If you ask what is the single most important key to longevity, I would have to say it is avoiding worry, stress and tension. And if you didn’t ask me, I’d still have to say it. George Burns, comedian and actor who lived to be 100
According to a recent American Psychological Association (APA) study on stress in America, 76 percent of Americans find that the future of our nation is a significant source of stress, and 66 percent are stressed by the current political climate.
Of course, you can’t make all the political stress go away and you shouldn’t. It’s important to stay informed but mindfulness can help you avoid political burnout.
Here are three tips:
- Learn to discern between thoughtful, informative content and stress-inducing, sensationalized material.
- Be mindful of your media consumption. Regulate your digital environment by controlling notifications and choose specific times to engage with updates. It’s okay to react late to news!
- Connect with individuals who provide a safe space for understanding current events. Sharing what you are thinking and feeling with trusted peers can mitigate the negative effects of stress.
One last thing…do something! Attach labels to postcards, send texts, contribute money, march, buy and wear the t-shirt. Doing something will help you feel empowered.
Affirmation: I have the power to manage my reactions to what is happening in the world around me.
Coaching questions: What tools do you use to manage stress? What’s working, what isn’t working? Adjust accordingly.
Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash
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