In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the constant stream of news and social media updates. While staying informed is important, the sensationalist nature of modern news cycles can contribute to anxiety, stress, and even a sense of helplessness. Curating with intentionality can promote peace and well-being in physical, mental, and digital spaces. There are many ways to create calming spaces in your daily life and alternative ways to stay informed without feeling emotionally drained.
Step 1: Cultivate a Calming Space in Your Home
Your environment plays a significant role in your mental state. Whether it’s a cozy reading nook, a sunlit corner filled with plants, or simply a tidy workspace, small changes can make a big impact. Simple, but effective ways to create a calm and grounding atmosphere at home include:
Declutter Your Space – A clutter-free environment reduces mental chaos.
Use Soft Lighting – Warm lighting can make your space feel inviting.
Incorporate Nature – Houseplants, flowers, or even nature sounds can bring peace.
Create a Tech-Free Zone – Designate an area where screens and notifications are off-limits. (I know this one is hard; don’t worry; we’ll touch on this later.)
Engage Your Senses – Use essential oils, candles, or calming music to enhance relaxation.
By curating your physical space, you can create a place of solace from all the outside noise.
Step 2: Set Boundaries with Social Media & News Consumption
While social media and 24/7 news cycles keep us connected, they can also lead to sensory overload, doomscrolling, and increased stress levels. Setting healthy boundaries can be as simple as:
Limit Screen Time – Set specific time blocks for social media and news.
Turn-Off Notifications – Reduce distractions by disabling alerts for non-urgent updates.
Curate Your Feed – Follow accounts that uplift, educate, and inspire rather than stress you out.
Take Digital Detox Breaks – Try going one day a week without consuming social media.
Be Intentional About What You Read – Choose news sources that focus on facts, context, and solutions, rather than fear-based headlines.
The goal isn’t to disconnect completely, it’s to consume information mindfully without letting it dictate your emotions.
Step 3: Explore Alternatives to Sensationalist News
If you want to stay informed without fear-driven headlines, here are some calm, fact-based, and human-centered alternatives. These are listed in easy-to-use categories. Of course, there are many other ways, but these are a few that I find helpful.
Balanced & Non-Sensationalist News Sources
If you still want world updates without the anxiety-inducing spiral, try
NPR – Thoughtful reporting with a public interest focus. For a more community-based approach, try your local NPR station; if in Southeastern NC, WHQR is the station.
AP News – Straight facts, no clickbait.
BBC News – Offers a broader international perspective.
The Christian Science Monitor – In-depth, solution-oriented journalism.
Axios – Concise and to the point.
Ground News – Shows how different outlets cover the same story.
Black-Centered & Culturally Relevant News
If you’re looking for news that uplifts and informs Black communities, these platforms provide culture-driven, thoughtful journalism:
TheGrio – Covers Black news, politics, and entertainment.
Blavity – News and culture for Black millennials.
The Root – Sharp, witty takes on current events.
Because of Them We Can – Uplifting stories of Black excellence.
PushBlack – Black history and culture delivered in an engaging way.
Newsletters for Calm & Thoughtful News Consumption
If you’d rather read a quick, digestible summary of the news, these non-sensationalist newsletters are perfect:
The Pour Over – Christian perspective with unbiased reporting.
Tangle – Fair, nuanced takes on political news.
Future Crunch – Highlights positive global progress.
The Optimist Daily – Good news focused on solutions.
Podcasts for Human Stories & Meaningful News
Instead of overwhelming breaking news, try listening to storytelling and analysis-based podcasts:
Snap Judgment – Engaging, real-life storytelling.
StoryCorps – Heartfelt conversations between everyday people.
This American Life – Deep-dive storytelling with impact.
The Stoop – Black identity and culture told through personal narratives.
Everything is Alive – Quirky and humorous interviews with objects.
Fun & Lighthearted Alternatives
Sometimes, we just need a break from the serious. Here are some fun and humorous media options:
Shondaland – Pop culture, storytelling, and fun.
Awesomely Luvvie – Luvvie Ajayi’s witty takes on life and culture.
The Shade Room – Black pop culture and entertainment.
The Onion – Satirical news that pokes fun at media sensationalism.
Bored Panda – Uplifting and funny stories from around the world.
Final Thoughts: Choose Peace Over Panic
The world isn’t going to stop moving, and the news will always be there. But how you engage with it is within your control. By creating a calming space, setting digital boundaries, and choosing thoughtful news sources, you can stay informed without sacrificing your peace.
I encourage mindfulness in all aspects of life, including the way we consume media. You deserve peace. Choose wisely.
What are your favorite ways to stay informed without stress? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
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