Today’s brief episode we are talking about self-care today and every day.

Just a reminder, self -care is any activity that we engage with to take care of ourselves mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and/or physically. Self-care is an activity that helps you feel refreshed or revitalized on the long run not depleted or anxious.

Part of self-care is giving yourself permission and space to feel all the feelings. This means giving yourself the support that you need and knowing what your limits are. With the election coverage, you might want to spend less time watching the news and unplug for a little during this time.

Other ways to take care of yourself is to also unplug from social media, take a mental health day and time away from the noise. Set those boundaries or limits. Check-in with yourself and adjust accordingly.

Know that self-care is not selfish and that caring for your emotional needs during this stressful time necessary. Self-care will look different depending who you are and what replenishes you.

For most, a routine is helpful for self-care. This can include maintaining your morning routine such as brushing, breakfast and your favorite morning radio show. Or maintaining that morning workout or listening to your favorite podcast.

Nourish your body. Take good care of your body today. Eat fulfilling food, drink plenty of water, and monitor alcohol use during this time. Our minds and bodies are connected. Take the time to prepare and nourish our bodies.

Later in the week Remembering what we are grateful for and who/what in our life brings us joy is a good reminder right now. Take some time today to write or name the things you are grateful for. When you do, try to tap into the emotion when you think of those things you are grateful for. This can help maintain perspective.

Other activities include the practice of meditation and mindfulness to help ground and center during this stressful time. Feeling grounded can help when we are feeling overwhelmed with our emotions.

Finally, I suggest you connect with you community and advocate. Join a watch party with friends or a video chat beforehand. Sometimes taking care of yourself means being surrounded by loving people. While we cannot connect in-person anymore, we can use online tools connect with others and feel less alone.

Here’s a quick list of support hotlines that you may want to consult if you find yourself in a crisis:

The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386 (For LGBTQ youth ages 13-24)

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-8255 (online chat available)

Crisis Text Line: Text START to 741-741

The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline: (888) 843-4564

The GLBT National Youth Talkline (youth serving youth through age 25)

(800) 246-7743

Trans Lifeline: (877) 565-8860