Survival Guide: Election Edition

October 27, 2026 - we have had some stunning sunrises lately!Elections in the US prior to 2016 felt to me more like a sporting match - important, but not life-threatening. Those were the good old days. Now I find my stress - or maybe it’s the collective stress - rising as we approach each one. I recognize the signs in my body. Increased tension, neck and shoulder pain, headaches, increased forgetfulness, and an increase in “bad habits.” Elections make me want to run away like my cootie friend.Over the past six years, I’ve learned a number of strategies for dealing with stress and the symptoms it brings. It’s my toolbox for tough moments - or maybe I should call it my toybox? Today I thought I’d share a few of my favorites, in case they help someone else. Despite the lack of cold fronts, waterfowl like these northern shovelers have started to migrate through.With all of these strategies, the idea is to nurture, comfort, and regulate your body, mind, and spirit. Pay attention as you do…