10 Little Ways to Take Care of Yourself on Election Night

updated May 24, 2019
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(Image credit: From Left to Right: 3dfoto/Shutterstock; Kelli Foster)

The midterm elections taking place today are incredibly important. If you’re feeling a little bit anxious about the results, we have a plan for you. After you cast your ballot today (and you did vote, right?), here are a few small ways to de-stress while the numbers roll in. Remember to take time for yourself today and take a break from the news cycle if you need it.

(Image credit: Maria Siriano)

This tonic is intended for when you’re feeling under the weather, but I drink it whenever I need something soothing and hot. It’s super simple to make — you just need lemon, ginger, honey, and water. (Psst! A shot of whiskey in this is also great.)

2. Donate money to a great charity.

Giving feels good! Donate to a cause you care about tonight if you’re in a position to do so. Try your local food bank, for starters.

3. Take a minute to breathe with this video.

Follow the triangle as it expands and contracts for one minute. Breathe it as it gets big, breathe out as it shrinks.

(Image credit: Kelli Foster)

Baking is one of my absolute favorite ways to relieve some stress, and these chewy brownies are so damn good.

(Image credit: Quentin Bacon)

Pick up a couple of ingredients at your local health food store and make these DIY eye masks. If anything, it’s a great excuse to not look at Twitter for 15 minutes.

6. Watch this video of baked goods being made.

Is there anything more relaxing than watching croissants being baked? I don’t think so.

(Image credit: Christine Han)

Of course Dorie Greenspan has the answer to election night anxiety. Making this ricotta spoonable couldn’t be easier — it’s just ricotta, herbs, lemon, and lots of flaky sea salt.

8. Support a local artist and buy a new mug or plate.

Give money to artists! I’m a huge fan of Alexandria Cummings Ceramics, Marian Bull’s ceramics, and Earth + Element.

(Image credit: Joe Lingeman)

Do yourself a favor and make a mega batch of chewy granola for the rest of the week. Sometimes taking care of yourself means having a delicious breakfast to wake up to in the morning.

(Image credit: Courtesy of © Mark Bourdillion/Love Productions)

If you have Netflix, let Mary Berry be your balm for the night.