Post Election Thoughts

Well, well. In the US, some of us are feeling shocked, punched in the gut, disappointed, afraid or grieving around the election results on Tues. Others of us are cheering, celebrating or relieved. Both are happening in this country right now, and maybe even globally as well.

For those of us in the first group, it’s a quite bitter pill to swallow. And no matter what group you identify with (or neither of these groups!), we are all moving toward big change. How do we digest this new information, and the concomitant feelings? How can we support ourselves and each other in moments like these? You may have received many emails or texts in the last few days that provide support (I know I did, for example see Rick Hanson’s latest post here).

And in our Presence-Based Coaching stream of work, I’d like to offer a few more practices and perspectives that I’ve used along the way during moments of change.  I’m using them right now in fact, to resource myself and to accept reality as it is presenting itself. And so that I can be there for others, especially those who are processing the loss of a dream of where we hoped our country was headed.

I remember…

• I am and inhabit a body. I have practiced centering 100’s if not 1,000’s of times. I pause to take a deep breath now, and feel my feet connected to this precious earth that holds us all and sense into my dignity. I feel my heart (connectedness) and my depth (resilience). Repeat. I invite you to do the same, as often as needed.
• How important it is to prioritize self-care. Regular body-mind practices like yoga, meditation, journaling, and reading or listening to inspirational material (including music) and all help me navigate each day with presence. I reflect on how much there is to be grateful for in this very moment, and focusing on that supports my nervous system to settle.

• Being outside in nature fills and refreshes me. Watching the beautiful North Carolina Mountains across the valley from our house reminds me that those mountains have been there a long, long time. And they will be there many, many years after today. They are a silent and deep witness to all that unfolds.

• I continue to find joy as I engage in meaningful relationships with my partner, children, colleagues, and community. I will offer space, compassion, my heart, hands and help as often as I am able.

• I am still committed to consciousness, to waking up and to supporting others to do the same. I am always and still growing and evolving, and I didn’t come this far to forsake what’s most important now.

• Over the years, I’ve learned that there are gifts in even the most challenging circumstances. We actually don’t know what will happen next or how this will all turn out.  Staying in the present moment, moment by moment, can stop my mind from spinning into fear scenarios of the future.  We can rely on seeing the deeper truths of these difficult moments only in hindsight.

I offer these practices and perspectives with love and in the hope that they in some small way provide ease to your day, and to your journey.