Take a breath in the coming year

So, here we are again. A new year is around the corner, which means – you guessed it – resolution time.

Last year, I joked that I completed about 38 percent of my New Year’s resolutions. This year, I completed, well, probably even less than that; however, I did complete some goals that I never set as New Year’s resolutions. They were just some things I wanted to accomplish at some point in my life.

For instance, I took a step outside of my comfort zone and tried out for a part on the stage. Many who know me may not say this of me, but I am actually quite a bit of an introvert. I was terrified of getting in front of people and doing something like acting.

Once I get used to the words I’m trying to say and the people around me, it gets easier to handle. Until that point, I sort of low-key panic.

Still, I decided to go out on a limb and try out for a local theater. It was one of the best decisions of my life. I’ve met incredible people, heard and told incredible stories and helped bring a smile to people’s faces.

Really, what more could a person want to experience?

On top of that, I’ve learned more about myself as a person, a teacher and a journalist this past year.

There have been challenges I’ve had to overcome, such as writing about controversial topics or working with difficult students, and I’ve made myself proud coming out on top.

Again, these accomplishments and achievements were not my New Year’s resolutions last year. Still, they should be noted as I look to the next year and make my goals for 2018.

Last year, I said I wanted to laugh more. I think I’ve done that pretty well. I also think I’ve helped others laugh a little more, too.

This year, I think my biggest, most important New Year’s resolution will be to breathe more.

Of course, I’m not walking around blue in the face because I’m not breathing, and I’m sure all of you understand what I’m trying to say.

I’ve lately been feeling like everything is happening at once. That may just be because we are literally at the tail end of one of the busiest seasons of the year, but there have been moments where I just feel overwhelmed.

That’s why I mention the breathing thing.

Breathing just helps to calm you down. Health Central’s website also states that breathing can “fuel energy production,” “improve focus and concentration” and, of course, “lower blood pressure.”

Even the military writes about breathing to wake up, relax and to help with fitness.

“By simply breathing FULL inhales and exhales for a few minutes you can slow down your nervous system and this will allow for you to think clearly, fall asleep, or calm your nerves from a stressful day,” an article on Military.com states.

I’m pretty sure I’m going to be just as busy in the coming year as I have been this past year, so I’m definitely going to need some help with stress and thinking clearly.

So, I’m going to close my eyes, focus on myself for a moment or two and just take a deep breath.

I’m going to take a few more moments in the coming year and just breathe.

Cassie Gibbs is a staff writer for The Southeast Sun and Daleville Sun-Courier. The opinions of this writer are her own and not the opinion of the paper. She can be reached at (334) 393-2969 or by email at [email protected].