Feeling Stressed about the Upcoming Election? Your Pelvic Floor may be Feeling it too…

As election day approaches, many of us feel the rising tide of stress and uncertainty. Political tensions, endless news cycles and social debates can take a toll on mental and physical health, manifesting in ways we often don’t expect. For some people, especially those prone to anxiety, this stress can translate into pelvic floor tension. While the pelvic floor is not something many people actively think about, it plays a crucial role in our overall well-being. Understanding, how stress impacts it, is key to relieving tension.

At Solstice Physiotherapy, we believe that supporting pelvic health is essential during stressful times. In this article, we’ll explore how election stress can cause pelvic floor tension, and share actionable ways to reduce it.

How Election Stress Can Affect the Pelvic Floor

Our bodies have a fascinating way of reacting to stress. The “fight or flight” response, triggered by stress, often causes muscle tension throughout the body. Whether it’s scrolling through social media or watching the news, election-related stress can cause the pelvic floor muscles to tighten.

Your pelvic floor muscles support the bladder, uterus, and rectum and help with bladder control, sexual function and core stability. When these muscles become tense, it can lead to a variety of symptoms:

●      pelvic pain or pressure

●      urinary urgency or frequency

●      painful intercourse

●      constipation or difficulty with bowel movements

Election stress, particularly the kind that triggers chronic anxiety, can intensify these symptoms, leading to an ongoing cycle of discomfort.

Signs of Pelvic Floor Tension

Pelvic floor tension isn’t always obvious. However, there are signs to look for:

1. Difficulty starting or stopping urination: The muscles of the pelvic floor control urination. When they’re too tight, it can be hard to urinate properly.

2. Low back, hip, or groin pain: Tight pelvic floor muscles can refer pain to surrounding areas like the low back, hips or groin.

3. Constipation or straining with bowel movements: Overactive pelvic floor muscles can make it difficult to relax enough for a comfortable bowel movement.

4. Pelvic pressure or a “heavy” feeling: Tension in the pelvic floor may feel like a constant pressure or heaviness in the pelvic region.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it may be a sign that your pelvic floor muscles are carrying extra tension.

Simple Ways to Reduce Pelvic Floor Tension During Election Season

The good news is that there are several strategies to help reduce pelvic floor tension and manage stress during election season. Incorporating these techniques into your routine can help you stay grounded and prevent tension from accumulating.

1. Breathing Exercises

Deep, diaphragmatic breathing is one of the most effective ways to release pelvic floor tension. Stress often leads to shallow breathing, which can contribute to muscle tightness. By focusing on slow, deep breaths you can help the pelvic floor muscles relax.

How to practice diaphragmatic breathing:

●      Lie down or sit in a comfortable position.

●      Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.

●      Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your belly to rise while keeping your chest relatively still.

●      Exhale slowly and fully, letting your belly fall.

●      Repeat this for 5–10 minutes, focusing on relaxing your pelvic floor with each exhale.

2. Stretching and Yoga

Gentle stretching and yoga pose that focus on the hips and low back can help relieve pelvic floor tension. Certain yoga poses, like Child’s Pose or Happy Baby Pose, allow the pelvic floor muscles to stretch and relax. Practicing these poses regularly can keep tension from building up.

Try these yoga poses to release pelvic tension:

●      Child’s Pose: Start on your hands and knees, then slowly sit back on your heels, reaching your arms forward. Focus on breathing deeply into your belly and hips.

●      Happy Baby Pose: Lie on your back, bring your knees toward your chest, and hold onto the outsides of your feet. Gently pull your knees toward the floor, opening your hips.

Hold each pose for 1–2 minutes, breathing deeply to help release any tension.

3. Mindfulness and Meditation

By incorporating mindfulness and meditation practices into your day, you can manage your stress levels and reduce the risk of pelvic floor tension.

A simple mindfulness practice involves setting aside 5–10 minutes each day to sit quietly, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. If your mind starts to wander, gently guide it back to the sensation of breathing.

There are many meditation apps that provide guided meditations specifically designed to reduce stress and anxiety.

4. Limit Election News and Social Media Consumption

Constant exposure to election coverage can elevate stress levels. Limit your time on social media and watching news, especially before bed. Set boundaries for how much election-related content you consume daily, and replace it with activities that promote relaxation, such as reading a book, taking a walk or engaging in a creative hobby.

5. Seek Professional Help

If you find that pelvic floor tension is affecting your quality of life, a pelvic floor physical therapist can provide personalized care and help you develop a comprehensive treatment plan. At Solstice Physiotherapy, we offer pelvic floor therapy that includes manual techniques, exercises, and biofeedback to help release tension and restore function.

Closing Thoughts

Stay grounded, stay healthy. Election season can be a stressful time, but taking steps to manage your stress and pelvic floor tension can make a big difference in your overall well-being. By incorporating relaxation techniques, limiting stressors and seeking professional help if needed, you can maintain both your pelvic health and mental clarity during this tumultuous time.

This blog is designed to educate and provide helpful tips for managing pelvic floor tension. It does not replace personalized, medical advice. If you have concerns about your pelvic health, contact Solstice Physiotherapy at 929-269-2505 or e-mail to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation with a pelvic-health specialist.