We don’t know about you, but we’re going to need a while to process everything that happened in the 2024 election. It’s normal to be angry and disappointed with the results of the race. But instead of torturing yourself with worry about what could have been done differently, give yourself a little grace and time to heal in the coming days and weeks. After all, you’re going to need your strength to get through the next four years.
Suggested Reading
Whether you need to cry, scream or just remind yourself that you are worth, we’ve got the best books, podcasts, music and more to help you cope.
Give Yourself Time to Feel
If you feel like your stress is getting the best of you, don’t hold it in. Sahaj Kaur Kohli of Brown Girl Therapy suggests people set aside time to let it out.
Just Breathe
We may not know what’s ahead, but now is a great time to release any negative energy we may be holding. Actress Tracee Ellis Ross leads her followers through a healing breath exercise on her Instagram page to help them exhale.
Listen to Music
Listening to music is a great way to unwind when things get to be a little too much. Check out TikToker @undonebypaige’s playlist of soothing songs that provide instant anxiety relief.
Listen to More Music
Content creator @kendallxcel (aka That Spotify Guy) has a page loaded with playlists for every mood. We especially love his “Chill Songs You Need on a Relaxing Weekend” list.
Surround Yourself With Good Scents
Filling your home with soothing scents can help bring calm in the middle of chaos. We love the Lady Day Luxury Candle from the Harlem Candle Company that has notes of Sparkling Bergamot, Gardenia and Sandalwood.
Feel the Flow
Incorporating yoga into your fitness routine is an amazing way to relieve stress. Black yoga instructor Channing Hixon created this simple, relaxing yoga sequence in 2020 to provide healing during the height of the Black Lives Matter movement. Her flow is just as needed today.
Feel the Flow
If you’re short on time, Black yogi Nico Marie has a 10-minute calming yoga practice to help relieve anxiety and stress. This simple flow is perfect for any level of expertise.
Find Inspiration Where You Can
From African proverbs to words of wisdom from Oprah Winfrey, Alice Walker and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “Black Pearls: Daily Meditations, Affirmations, and Inspirations for African-Americans” is a collection of positive words to help you start your day off right.
Listen to Affirmations
If you’d rather listen to your affirmations, Janika Bates offers a daily morning affirmation for Black women designed to inspire confidence and positive thinking.
Listen to Affirmations
Don’t get it twisted…Black men need to hear positive words too right now. Check out @affirmationsforblackmen for uplifting words that will make you feel valued and appreciated.
Write it Down
Oludara Adeeyo’s “Self-Care for Black Women: 150 Ways to Radically Accept & Prioritize Your Mind, Body & Soul,” offers a variety of practices designed to help you put yourself first as you try to navigate life’s challenges.
Reclaim Your Power
Black men, we know you want to be strong for your families, but do us a favor and don’t neglect your mental during this critical time. Actor Courtney B. Vance and Dr. Robin L. Smith’s “The Invisible Ache” is a moving memoir offering “guidance for Black men seeking to reclaim their mental well-being–and, ultimately, to live wholeheartedly.”
Straight From 
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