It’s getting hectic in here.  It’s getting chaotic. – Britney Spears, Chaotic

Well friends we made it to November.

Judging by how 2020 has gone thus far that is not a statement to take lightly.  We’re in the midst of an uncertain time here in the United States with a contentious election and the Covid-19 Pandemic cases going up.

My focus right now is:  Wellness Wellness Wellness

This includes:

  • Helping people manage stress and anxiety about all of the uncertainty around our sociopolitical environment and/or the pandemic
  • Encouraging actions to Improve Immune Function such as Good Nutrition, Regular Exercise, Stress Management, Getting Enough Sleep, and Supplement Research
  • Doing my part to educate and encourage Pandemic Wellness Strategies

Election Stress and Anxiety are Real

I am not one of these fitness and wellness professionals who want to stay away from talking about anything unpleasant because it may lose me followers so I’m going to talk about the stress and anxiety that many are experiencing due to the election and it has nothing to do with which candidate you’re supporting.

Nearly 70% of respondents said the elections are a significant source of stress, according to a survey out this month from the American Psychological Association.

The survey also found that a majority — 77% — are worried about the country’s future, says Vaile Wright, senior director of health care innovation at the American Psychological Association. “Seventy-one percent said that this is the lowest point in our nation’s history that they can remember.” (Source NPR)

This contentious environment is having an impact on people’s health and I think it would be irresponsible to not address this as a fitness wellness professional.

Tips for Managing Election Stress

  • Don’t overdose on News and Podcasts
  • Sit with your discomfort.  Don’t pretend that the election doesn’t bother you if it does.
  • Stay away from sugary foods because the highs may make you more anxious and the crashes in blood sugar will make you want more sugar.  When your body is stressed it wants sugar.
  • Avoid drowning your anxiety in alcohol. You won’t sleep well and it’s a depressant.
  • Put your phone in another room if possible. One great tip I read said to sleep with your phone in another room
  • EXERCISE: Stretch in the Morning/Cardio and/or Weights in the PM may be a good strategy but figure out what works for you

My Goals for November

I’m still working out at home and don’t see myself going to a commercial gym until next year. Even though our positivity rates are low here in San Francisco, I simply don’t feel comfortable exercising in a gym yet.

My goal is to stretch 10-15 minutes per day and get 10 strength workouts in.  I still try to run 1 day a week if I can.

Let’s not give up! Let’s keep going and end 2020 Strong!