7 Expert-Backed Tips For Spending A Long Time In The Poll Lines

Election Day is just over a week away, and early in-person voting started across the nation this past week—bringing with it tales of long (and I mean, really long) lines. Sure, queuing up to enter our local grocery store since March has prepared us to some extent. But reports of people waiting hours to vote suggests we should update our voting plan to include more detail than when, where, and how we're going to cast our ballots.

"Everyone wants to wear cute shoes and to take their voting picture, but you have to be smart," says family medicine physician and certified personal trainer Michele Reed, D.O.

It might sound strange, but gear up for your trip to the polls in a similar way you would for a long walk. If you're expecting to stand for a long time, this means even your shoes should ideally have plenty of support (think your favorite running shoes or supportive sneakers.) As for wardrobe, we recommend opting for your favorite comfortable athleisure look while participating in democracy.

It can be easy to fall into a posture that feels comfortable in that moment, but standing too long in a poor position can lead to pain later in the day—or even just later in line.

This isn't limited to the voting line! Cooler temperatures may mean you don't feel as noticeably thirsty, but you still need to stay hydrated. If you're in a public space like a polling location, be mindful of taking a quick, respectful sip before returning your mask to its proper position.

Another bad habit we sometimes fall into as the sun rounds into fall? Being less diligent about SPF. Regardless of what sunscreen you opt for, consider this your reminder that it should be a year-round part of your skin care routine.

Be it your favorite headphones and a killer playlist, your current read, a captivating podcast (maybe even the mindbodygreen podcast, perhaps?), or a guided meditation: You may as well find a way to enjoy this still time as much as possible. Finding a way to cultivate a moment for yourself may be challenging (especially amid what has been a stressful year), but the reality is there's no better way to make the line move faster.

Standing for an extended period can become uncomfortable, and if you find yourself starting to stiffen up (especially in chilly weather), you'll want to focus on two things: small movements that you can do without leaving line, and maybe plan to stretch out fully after you cast your vote.

"Try to stretch your upper back, chest, arms, and hips," says Reed, as those are the areas that might take the most stress while you're standing. This is also a great time to reach for a foam roller, for everything from your lower back to your feet. You may even want to try a restorative yoga sequence to provide the emotional, physical, and mental relaxation your body and mind might need.