With all the tension, anxiety, and division around election season, the U.S. election process is something worth paying attention to—whether you’re a U.S. citizen or not. No matter the outcome (which might take days to finalize), tonight’s events will make history. This election may feel different, but contentious elections are nothing new. What's special is that we’re witnessing history unfold in real-time. Personally, I like to watch these events while protecting my mind, body, and emotions. If you’re like me, here’s a powerful tip to help you sleep peacefully, no matter what happens.

It’s called the "Power Down Hour"—a habit you can (and should) practice daily, not just on big nights like this. Here’s why it works: technology, like TV, social media, or news websites, keeps your mind stimulated, making it hard to wind down. Even reading a book can keep the mind active, though it’s less intrusive since you choose the content.

Most of us already have trouble sleeping, often due to a mind that won’t stop racing. Maybe you're thinking about a tough workday, or maybe it's the latest twist in your favorite reality show. When we go to bed right after filling our minds with tension, it’s no wonder we struggle to fall asleep.

The Power Down Hour is simple. One hour before bedtime, shut off all tech—and yes, that includes TikTok, the news, and that juicy novel. Instead, spend this time relaxing, reflecting, connecting with a loved one, or meditating.

​​Tonight, especially, this is a gift to yourself. The Power Down Hour lets you let go of the election stress and prepare for a restful night. Your future self will thank you tomorrow when you wake up refreshed, ready to handle whatever the day brings. And remember, no matter the outcome, we’ll all be okay.

The idea of "living in the present moment" is often tossed around as helpful advice, yet not fully understood. For some, it's a reminder they pull out when mildly stressed, something that brings relief in moments of gratitude. But when larger stresses, like election night, loom, this concept can feel like just another “new-age” suggestion—useful only in low-stakes scenarios. Others may not fully grasp it at all. Today, I’d like to offer you a new perspective on this idea, one that you can test tonight as the election results start to roll in.

Election night will likely bring many opportunities for stress. Media outlets are designed to hold our attention by building suspense, worry, and tension. Their business model hinges on keeping us engaged—by making us wait on the edge of our seats, commercial break after commercial break, for the next big update. One option is simply not to watch. And if that’s your nature, it’s a fantastic choice. For those who will tune in, however, this tool could help you have a calm, grounded evening instead of one fraught with worry.

Living in the present moment is a mindset. Meditation is a great practice for this because it involves observing your thoughts without getting entangled in them. When we’re ruminating on the past, replaying “what ifs” or lamenting past events, we’re living in the past. When we’re preoccupied with fear or worry about the outcome of the election, we’re living in the future. The healthiest way to consume tonight’s events is to simply detach, observe, and be still—much like in meditation.

Que sera, sera, as they say in Spanish: "What will be, will be." By now, you’ve likely done your part, and there’s truly nothing more you can control. Regardless of the outcome, though it may feel dire if your candidate loses, we will be okay. This doesn’t mean being indifferent or inactive. But when our minds are calm and focused, we’re more powerful. Acting from a place of peace, rather than anxiety or fear, allows our thoughts, words, and actions to have a positive impact.

​Living in the present isn’t just for election night; it’s a practice to carry forward. Generations have thrived despite political challenges. They’ve survived wars, religious inquisitions, dark ages, and yes, turbulent politics. We will, too. The best way to thrive is by staying present—free from the stories we craft about the future or past. Take a deep breath; you’ve got this. Call to Action Headline

If you've followed my blog, you may remember I’ve written about "the abyss" before. It’s a powerful concept, and today, it feels especially relevant. When I first learned about it, it literally changed my life. My teacher shared it with me as a quote from Master Choa Kok Sui, and it came at a time when I was highly emotional, even proud of it. I wore my heart on my sleeve, thinking my emotional transparency was a superpower. But the truth was, simple things—like watching the news—could leave me feeling overwhelmed with sadness, anxiety, and fear.

​When I asked my teacher what to do about this, he shared this quote:

"You should be able to look into the abyss without falling in."
​​– Master Choa Kok Sui

Tonight's events may present one of the biggest "abysses" we’ve seen in a long time. If you believe everything the politicians are saying, this may feel like the most important moment of our lives. But remember, there’s a good chance that four years from now, we’ll hear similar rhetoric. My hope for you today is that these words help you stay grounded, well away from the emotional pull of the abyss.

What does this mean? It means that our grounded, conscious self is stronger than the emotions we experience. When we see ourselves as separate from our emotions, we regain power over them, rather than letting them rule our lives. Living in our emotions can make us reactive—everything we see or hear shapes our thoughts, words, and actions. But when we observe our emotions without reacting, we are living as our true self.

We should stay informed, but when we let emotions dictate our actions, we risk falling into the abyss. Instead, try observing the abyss without letting it consume you. Notice your feelings without judgment. If they’re difficult, take a few deep breaths. Notice where in your body you feel the emotion. Is it in your chest, your stomach, or maybe your throat? Imagine your breath moving into that space, and keep breathing deeply for a couple of minutes. You’ll likely feel the intensity dissipate, giving you the clarity to choose your next step rather than letting emotions decide for you.

​​When we avoid falling into the abyss, we can act from a place of calm and strength. This doesn’t mean you don’t care—it means you’re choosing your actions from a place of peace. From here, you’re more empowered to create the change you believe in, with clear, purposeful steps instead of heated reactions.