NORTH DAKOTA (KXNET) — Just like any other election year, the nerves of anxious voters are unclear as the country is divided. If you add the backdrop of inflation and international wars, experts say it would be surprising if anyone felt good about their coping skills. "We are in a generally heightened state of stress caused by events around the world," said Dr. Richard Davidson, a neuroscientist and founder and director of the Center for Healthy Minds. Stress and anxiety manifest in a variety of ways, differing between people. Externally, people can experience restlessness, fidgeting, and excessive sweating, according to Dr. Andrew Obritsch from Essentia Health. As the countdown dwindles, here are some methods that people can use to handle anxiety and stress. One of the best things is to get moving. Experts say that few things work as well as exercise when it comes to reducing stress. It promotes endorphins that boost mood while tired muscles lose tension. No matter what type of exercise you partake in — walking, jogging, yoga, tai chi, aerobic exercise, or strength training — it can be as powerful as psychotherapy. "Cardiovascular exercise, so, it'd really be about 30 minutes, four or five times a week. It'll vary for people of different ages, but even going for a half-hour walk at a casual pace can be adequate," Dr, Obritsch explained. RSV vaccines offered at Essentia Health Another thing people can do is take control of their environment. Figure out what you can and cannot control. An example of something you can control would be your activity level on social media, which often triggers anger and despair. Instead, opt for walking, reading, prayer or song, or talking with friends or family who make you feel safe. People can also practice positives. Since our brains are wired for the negative to keep us safe, you have to practice being positive. This includes frequently having uplifting thoughts. To help, try taking 30 minutes a day to meditate, but start with just a few minutes and work your way up. Write down what makes you thankful. "Things like meditation or prayer, whether you're a religious person or not. Meditation has been shown to be a really helpful thing. There are a number of different apps or YouTube-based options for that," explained Dr. Obritsch. Getting quality sleep is another big thing. Your brain is busy even while you're sleeping, as it's preparing for the next day, sorting experiences, and making new paths for learning. Sleeping helps people capture new information, absorb skills, and form memories. On average, people need at least seven hours of sleep. "Focus on aspects of your life that you can control. So, going out and voting is helpful, you did your part, but to focus on parts of your life that you can control. It's normal to have some level of anxiety and nervousness about election results," concluded Dr. Obritsch. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW