Staying Centered in Northwest Arkansas

Good morning, friends. I hope everyone weathered the weather yesterday. I want to start by thanking each of you for the time and effort you put into making your community better. You make a difference.

It’s gonna be a day of hand wringing and high emotions. Let’s pledge to manage that as best we can. Be nice. It feels good.

A few years ago, I booked time on a bike to get some distance from the reporting, tracking, and predicting that plague Election Day.  It immediately became a tradition that I hold dear.  This year, the “free time” on my calendar simply reads “Go Outside.”    

Election Day can be a drag on your energy and your productivity.  Take some time for peace of mind today.  As much as I wish this weren’t the case, I can’t worry my way to a better future or a brighter day.

So, if you haven’t yet done so… VOTE. Take the action. After that, please allocate some time to decompress, recenter, and reflect on what matters most.

Practice Finding Peace

Mindful Breathing: Set aside a few minutes for deep breathing exercises. Apps like Calm and Headspace offer guided breathing techniques, or simply try inhaling deeply for four counts, holding for four, and exhaling for four. This rhythmic breathing can help lower anxiety and recenter your focus.

Setting Boundaries: Give yourself permission to step back from conversations or situations that make you anxious. Set limits on discussing politics with family and friends. Protect your mental health by limiting who and what you engage with on this day.

Gratitude Journaling: Reflect on things you’re grateful for to shift your focus. Take a few minutes to jot down positive thoughts in a notebook or even on your phone. Put yourself on the list!

Unplug from Noise and News

Turn Off Notifications: Silence news and social media notifications for the day. You can catch up on the results later.

Limits News Consumption: Allocate a specific time to check the news—maybe just 15 minutes in the evening. Stop scrolling!

Create: Distract your mind by focusing on activities that bring you joy. Whether it’s painting, cooking, reading a book, or working on a puzzle, engaging in hobbies can be a great way to unplug from Election Day chaos.

Places of Peace and Quiet

Outdoors

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art Trails (Bentonville): Enjoy a peaceful stroll, taking in the art and natural beauty while enjoying a break from the noise.

Botanical Garden of the Ozarks (Fayetteville): A relaxing oasis with multiple gardens and plenty of places to sit and reflect. Take a quiet walk among flowers and fountains, and let nature offer some calm to your day.

Osage Park (Bentonville): “Recreation with all in mind.” Stroll the boardwalks, enjoy the public art, watch the planes overhead.

Shiloh Memorial Park (Springdale): This small, peaceful park is a hidden gem for taking a breather from the day’s events.

Lake Atalanta (Rogers): Walk along the lake or simply sit and watch the water.

Indoors

Check Out at Your Public Library: Find a cozy nook or quiet reading room.  Grab a good book or simply sit in the tranquility of the library.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (Fayetteville): The church has open hours for anyone looking to pray, reflect, or sit in silence. This historic sanctuary offers a peaceful space for anyone, regardless of religious background, to take a quiet break.

First United Methodist Church in Downtown Bentonville: All are welcome (hard stop) and the sanctuary will be open for peaceful reflection and prayer.

J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center (Springdale): Indoor exhibits and educational spaces that offer a tranquil environment to unwind and learn about the natural world.

Rogers Historical Museum: A quiet atmosphere to explore local history at your own pace, providing a peaceful indoor retreat