Channeling Elsa: Coping with Today's Political Climate

photo credit: ​Andy Sabis flickr

It seems like no matter how hard you might try, it is nearly impossible to avoid the toxic social and political environment in the U.S. right now. There is so much hatred, hostility, injustice and ignorance that, at times, it feels like we are living in a parallel universe. I have unfollowed numerous Facebook friends whose posts are so abhorrent that it took great strength to remain silent in the face of their asininity. In fact, having just unfollowed a good friend is what has inspired this small musing. 

I have strong convictions about everything that is going on in the world right now as does everyone. We are experiencing great turmoil and confusion. This does not generally bring out the best parts of our species. When any animal is scared or confused they tend to lash out in an irrational manner. Humans are no exception. I have decided to exercise my self control and, to quote a famous ice queen, "Let it go."

I'm going to reconcile myself with the fact that, in most cases, my well-worded and fact-based opinion will not sway their hate-filled and ignorant ones. I will allow myself to simply take a deep breath and try to comfort myself with the thought that this, surely, isn't real. The crazies won't win. Reason will triumph, people will calm down and the political climate will mellow out. 

​So, to help you navigate the rough water that is calming down in the face of frustration, I recommend the following steps:
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1. Take a deep breath
2. Slowly repeat the word "Letting" as you inhale
2. As you exhale repeat the word "Go"

I found this great mantra at divination.com and it has been very helpful for me. It is described as something that helps instill "a feeling of peace" and to help serve "as a reminder that letting go of thinking is the key to a clear, open mind and tranquility."

If that doesn't help you can find your own mantra by searching the internet. I found a few other great ones like this one at mindbodygreen.com that comes in video form. It is also shared with a very insightful quote that I feel is appropriate:

" Getting too attached to a particular outcome is an easy way to be disappointed. And so often the universe has something better waiting for us than what we imagined as the ideal outcome. But letting go of expectations is a constant struggle."

I also found this article at intentblog.com very helpful with understanding how to mentally let go.

Finally, if that doesn't work, you can always blast that oh so popular song, "Let it Go" and sing your heart out. (I know it always makes me feel better.) Who knows, maybe our worst fears will actually come true but, stressing yourself out about it by dealing with people that are TRYING to incite more hate definitely won't help. And, if the United States does fall into insanity, Finland is always an option. I hear they're pretty happy.

So, embrace the moments you have that are good and let the bad ones fall away. Dance, sing and be silly with those that you love and know that those are the most important things.