Note:
For some of us, we stayed up all night watching results and wondering what a Harris or Trump victory could mean for our families, for others it was concern over Ohio’s Supreme Court, a local representative or school levy. While the result are in, many of of are happy about the outcome of some races and other and disappointed and distraught about others.
Understaning how our minds can make us fearful or stressed about the future I decided to take a minute to make sure we were all equipped to take care of ourselves. Regardless of the candidate or party you supported, realizing that we fell short of having a President that looked like and represented us is tough.
Full disclaimer, due to being up all night like many of you and updating the website and social media, I am tired, so I asked my friendly AI tool to write this, and I’ll admit it came out pretty good.
Take a look and take care of yourself.- Shana Black
Self-Care for Black Women After the Election: Reclaiming Peace and Centering Yourself
by Ms. AI Tool
No matter the election outcome, the days following can be emotionally charged, especially for Black women who often carry the weight of communities and families while navigating personal impact. From high levels of news coverage to conversations filled with opinions and tension, it’s important to have ways to care for yourself mentally, emotionally, and physically. Here are some ways to practice self-care and protect your peace after the election:
1. Disconnect to Reconnect with Yourself
News outlets, social media, and group chats will likely be full of opinions and emotions. Set boundaries with media and take breaks to give yourself mental space. Turn off notifications and choose specific times to check for updates if needed. Focus on reconnecting with yourself—whether it’s through journaling, meditation, or a long walk outside.
2. Establish a Self-Care Ritual
Creating a self-care ritual can help you feel grounded. This could be as simple as making a cup of herbal tea every morning, doing a skincare routine, lighting a favorite candle, or taking a soothing bath. These small acts can help remind you to prioritize your own well-being and create moments of peace throughout the day.
3. Limit Triggering Conversations
Everyone has their own reactions and opinions about election outcomes, which can sometimes feel overwhelming or even invalidate your feelings. Feel empowered to politely set boundaries or step back from conversations that feel harmful or triggering. Protecting your peace is a form of self-care.
4. Seek Community Support and Safe Spaces
Connecting with other Black women who share your experiences and values can provide both comfort and strength. Consider joining online communities, attending virtual or local events for Black women, or simply reaching out to trusted friends. Knowing you’re not alone and sharing how you feel can make all the difference.
5. Practice Mindfulness and Breathwork
When things feel uncertain, mindfulness can bring you back to the present. Take time to breathe deeply, stretch, or even try guided meditation to calm your mind and body. Apps like Insight Timer, Liberate, and Calm have free resources tailored to meditation and mindfulness, some even with a focus on Black mental health.
6. Get Active and Release Tension
Moving your body is a powerful way to manage stress and release tension. Whether it’s yoga, a dance workout, a walk around your neighborhood, or simply stretching, physical activity can lift your mood and increase endorphins. Taking a few minutes each day to move can create a sense of control and positivity.
7. Express Yourself Creatively
Creativity can be a therapeutic outlet. Writing, painting, singing, or any other artistic activity can help you express complex emotions and process what you’re feeling. Tap into a hobby you enjoy, or even try something new to shift your focus and channel your energy productively.
8. Nourish Your Body and Mind
Pay attention to what your body needs—nutritious food, hydration, and rest. Make a conscious effort to fuel yourself with foods that make you feel good, prioritize sleep, and give your mind a break by doing things you enjoy, whether it’s reading, watching a favorite show, or spending time with loved ones.
9. Affirm Your Power and Resilience
Remember your own strength, and remind yourself that, regardless of the outcome, you have the power to support positive change in your life and community. Affirmations can reinforce this strength. Consider affirmations like, “I am resilient,” “I deserve peace,” and “I am empowered to care for myself.” Repeat these or create your own to center yourself and nurture your inner resilience.
10. Give Yourself Permission to Rest
Sometimes, the best way to care for yourself is to simply rest. If you’re feeling exhausted, physically or emotionally, allow yourself to take a break from responsibilities and expectations, and give yourself the grace to relax and recharge.
No matter how you choose to care for yourself post-election, remember that you are worthy of peace, support, and joy.
Bonus (and Maybe most important)Acknowledge Your Emotions
Allow yourself to feel whatever emotions come up without judgment. Whether you feel hopeful, angry, disappointed, or just tired, it’s valid. Journaling can be a great way to express your thoughts, helping you release the emotional weight of the election cycle. Even a few minutes of writing can help you process and make sense of your experience.