In today’s episode, Lauren and Marci discuss the challenges of managing stress and staying grounded during periods of heightened emotions, including how to navigate personal wellbeing on election day and during other times of uncertainty. They share practical tips for controlling what you can, maintaining routines, supporting your nervous system, and setting boundaries. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone looking to prioritize wellness and stay resilient during challenging times.

Key Topics Discussed:

• [00:02] Introduction: Lauren and Marci kick off the episode with an update on Marci’s upcoming trip to Orlando for a business retreat and a quick reflection on how busy life feels as the holidays approach.
• [04:11] Election Day & Daylight Savings Stressors: With election day arriving and the impact of daylight savings still lingering, Lauren and Marci acknowledge the heightened stress many people may feel. They discuss how these events can disrupt routines and create anxiety.
• [10:01] Controlling What You Can Control: The hosts highlight the importance of taking control over the small things in life, like voting and managing media intake, to help reduce anxiety. They discuss the benefits of limiting exposure to news and social media to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• [16:14] Maintaining Regular Routines for Stability: Sticking to routines, like regular meal times and morning/evening habits, can help create a sense of normalcy. Lauren shares her plans for keeping a steady routine even on a hectic day.
• [18:57] Understanding the Nervous System: Marci dives into the basics of nervous system states, such as ventral vagal (calm and connected), fight or flight, and freeze or shutdown. She explains how awareness of these states can help us identify when we need to support ourselves through grounding techniques.
• [23:00] Practical Self-Regulation Techniques: Lauren and Marci share accessible ways to regulate the nervous system, such as deep breathing, movement, and mindfulness practices. Lauren recounts a recent experience where dancing helped her release tension and process emotions.
• [31:05] Nutrition Tips During Stressful Times: The importance of nourishing the body with simple, nutrient-dense meals is emphasized. They discuss how easy-to-prepare options, like rotisserie chicken and microwavable veggies, can be a lifesaver when energy is low.
• [40:33] Acts of Kindness as a Self-Care Practice: Lauren and Marci suggest engaging in small acts of kindness for others as a way to feel more connected and uplifted, especially during challenging periods.
• [47:00] Preparing for the Evening and Staying Informed Mindfully: The hosts talk about their plans for election night and discuss the importance of mindfully choosing when and how to stay informed without allowing the news to dominate their evening.

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