I like politics, and I am all for knowing what is happening politically in your city, state, and country. I think it is very important to be knowledgeable about and have an opinion on these things.

However, lately I have been very disgusted and overwhelmed by the news. Maybe this is due to the overwhelming emotional issues inside myself lately. Maybe I’m just tired. But it seems like everywhere I turn, there are protests, and dissension, and disagreement, and anger.

I’m tired of it.

So I haven’t been paying as much attention to the news lately. I’ve been reading, or listening to music, or staring. Staring isn’t always a bad thing. But then I thought, wow, there’s a lot of stuff you can do instead of watching the news.

This list is by no means exhaustive, nor is it in any kind of order; I’m simply picking things off the top of my head. Maybe this will inspire some creativity and peace in our world. (Wow, now I sound like Miss America.)

1.Color. In a coloring book, on a blank sheet of paper . . . hopefully not on the walls (unless you like that kind of thing). Or, draw.

2.Play a board game, or a card game. Yes, I know, half of you are groaning right now (sometimes including me). But this is great chance to spend some quality time with someone you love. You don’t have to focus on turbulent emotional issues, turbulent work issues, or turbulent political issues. You don’t have to read each other’s minds. You get to follow rules (whether real or made up) and play a game. And, maybe, have a few good laughs.

3.Listen to the radio (or music in some form). Music is great, and can really affect your attitude.

4.Dance to that music. Especially if no one else is around. Dancing is great fun, and gets your heart rate up. Plus you can work on those moves. Remember, nobody puts Baby in a corner. Get out on that floor. (And now I sound like Richard Simmons.)

5.Meditate. Meditation, of course, comes in many different forms. You can simply practice mindfulness—sit and tune in to your senses. What are you smelling? Feeling tangibly? Hearing? Focus on your breathing. Try the raisin exercise—you can use a kind of food other than a raisin.

6.Call a friend. Calling can be stressful, especially for us introverts. But lately I’ve really pushed myself to actually talk to a few friends on the phone—and not only has calling (them) become easier, I’ve really enjoyed the time. You don’t have to talk about anything in particular. Just chat. Let them know you’re thinking of them.

7.Read a book. This is a no-brainer. Pick something you really want to read, though. Don’t feel forced. Enjoy getting lost in another world.

8.If you don’t feel like reading, find a recliner and kick back. Or, put your feet up on the couch. Close your eyes. Breathe. (I forget to really breathe so often.)

9.Give someone you love a massage. It really is wonderful to help people.

10.Work out. This depends on the time of day, of course. If it’s not a good time to work out, do some stretching.

And of course there are tons of other things to do. But there are ten of them—for what it’s worth.

Now go get out on that dance floor and spread some peace and good will, people.