RHINELANDER, Wisc. (WJFW)“Presidential elections are a stressful event for many voters.

The American Psychiatric Association recently reported that 43% of adults are feeling more anxious this year than during the 2023 election, an increase of 37%.

Embrace Yoga Studios instructor Jean Loesch feels the stress herself. But she does have some advice for people to manage their election anxiety. His number one suggestion is movement, whatever it may be.

“Maybe you don’t do yoga,” Loesch said. “But just get out and take a walk. Or if you go to the gym or any other type of hobby or sport that you do. But this is also combined with breathing and the breath work that we practice to help reduce that stress and relieve that tension.

Loesch demonstrated some beginner stretches that help relieve tension in your body. She recommends straightening your spine and lowering your shoulders to start. These stretches can help your neck, back, and shoulders, where many people carry their stress.

Here are some breathing exercises you can do right from your couch to ease your stress.

Loesch suggests a deep breathing exercise that involves inhaling for 4 seconds, holding that breath, and exhaling for 6 seconds.

“One thing that helped me – and it took a lot of work – is that we can’t control the outcome of the election. » » Said Loesch. “We can vote. We can donate to the campaign of our choice. We can volunteer. The result will be what it will be. But we can control our reaction and response. And I think that’s where the work of finding that inner peace and calm is so beneficial.

Other tips that can help reduce election anxiety include staying hydrated, getting quality sleep, and limiting news consumption.

Be sure to seek professional help if you feel like your anxiety is too much to handle.