15 Self-Care Tips to Get through Election Week
This isn’t going to be easy.
Today is Election Day and I am ready. But I’m also not ready.
The memory of Election Day 2016 hits me. I was drinking champagne with friends the day before my birthday, excited to usher in a new era of a female presidency. But soon, auspiciousness drained from the air faster than the New York Times needle could swing right, and my friends and I began reaching for vodka instead of champagne.
Don’t do that! Don’t be me!
We don’t know for sure what will happen, but we need to be prepared to safeguard our mental health regardless of the outcome. Even if we win, the results will take a long time, and Trump may engage in counterattacks throughout the night. Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.
1 — Vote
None of this means anything unless we all vote. Duh. Go to a polling place as soon as you can, bring your friends, bring a game, bring a crossword to wait out the long lines. Do your part.
2 — Text a loved one
Most of us are not physically near our loved ones right now. Reach out however you can: text, Zoom calls, phone calls, or something else. We need social support.
3 — Watch a silly, non-political comedy video
This one of Billy Eichner screaming at people in New York City is a classic. Or an SNL sketch about diner lobster of all things. Or a half-hour of three comedians competing to make the most accurate sound impressions. Whatever kills enough time before Florida is called.
4 — Make a fancy cocktail
Tenderly magazine has a wonderful selection.
5 — Buy a fun outfit online
I love the sustainable and ethical clothes of KnowTheOrigin, Beyond Retro, and LucyandYak. Try something other than Amazon — you might have fun!
6 — Clean out your fridge
Who knows what kind of gunk is in there?
7 — Soak in a bath or hot tub
The longer, the better. Bath oils, red wine, soothing music, and candles are all bonuses.
8 — Go for a long walk and listen to Ariana’s new album
All hail the ponytail.
9 — Crack open that book
You know which book. The one that’s been sitting on your nightstand, the one you always say “I’m going to finish it soon, but this week I’m just slammed”. That one.
10 — Cuddle with a furry friend.
If you don’t have a pet, cuddle with a friend’s pet. If you don’t have a friend, watch this video of a dog and a cow hanging out.
11 — Deactivate Twitter
Seriously, have you ever been happy after checking your Twitter feed?
12 — Watch strangely satisfying videos
Are you a Dr. Pimple Popper kinda person? Maybe an ASMR enthusiast? Or maybe you’re fond of slime videos?
13 — Cook something from scratch
Maybe make these mini vegan pizzas by Tabitha Brown because that’s your business.
14 — Go for a run
“Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don’t kill their husbands, they just don’t.” — Elle Woods
15 — Complete a crossword
The Washington Post crosswords are free. If you still have a puzzle itch, work your way through Sporcle’s plethora of trivia games (Remember Sporcle?).
Remember, checking election polls and forecasts won’t actually impact anything. For many of us, it may actually be a stressful or anxious task. Unplug, take care of yourself, and we will get through it together.
See you on the other side.
