On Tenterhooks

In the US we are approaching an Election Day unlike any I have ever known in my 57 years. Each side believes there is more at stake than in any other election – some have stated that the very soul of this country is at stake. Nearly 70 percent of Americans responding to a recent survey said that the presidential election was a significant source of stress in their lives, with 76 percent of Democrats and 67 percent of Republicans experiencing anxiety.

This election would be difficult in the best of circumstances, but of course we’re not dealing with the best of circumstances. COVID-19. Political polarization at all levels, from our national leaders to our neighbors. Isolation. The end of longer, sunnier days. If there was ever a perfect storm of anxiety triggers, this is it.

I must confess my coping mechanisms in the last two weeks have not been helpful. Hello snacking, my old friend. Yes, Michelle, peanuts and dried apricots are “healthy foods,” but not by the fistful. And I won’t even get into the “left over” Halloween candy.

But I’m trying, friends. And I’m also trying to not be too tough on myself when my choices aren’t the wisest. Each day I pick myself back up, dust myself off, and try again.

Of course, nature is still there for me. The gloomy weather we had all week finally broke yesterday and we had a glorious, albeit chilly, perfect autumn day. As I walked through “my” woods at the end of the street, I was very conscious of soaking in every golden shaft of sunlight, knowing the weather could turn at any moment (and today has been a weird mix of gloom, snippets of sunshine, and high winds – with our power even flickering once).

My favorite things to photograph in the woods these days:

• the random collections of leaves and acorns that fall on tree stumps – to me they create such fascinating tableaux
• the rich textures juxtaposed during this season
• mushrooms! there are so many different varieties adorning nearly every fallen tree
• moss! I’m a big lover of moss – especially now, with the bright greens looking so lush against the browns and yellows
• views looking up through the dwindling canopy – especially when the background is a brilliant, blue sky

Wherever you are, whatever you are dealing with, I hope you find some gentle ways to cope. If you have a wild place to retreat to, whether it be a beach, desert trail, forest, or merely a tiny green space with a tree or two – I highly suggest some nature therapy. Bundle up if necessary. I guarantee it will do you some good.

Love,

Michelle xoxo