Inhale 2025 … Exhale 2024
By Kishara Joy Griffin, MSW, Sister Circle Therapist
What a year it has been! We kicked things off with Kat Williams setting Club Shay Shay on fire with an explosive interview. We witnessed the emotional breakup of DDG and Halle Bailey, the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict/genocide, and Young Thug's freedom. And now, Lil Durk is facing his own struggles! From Beyonce’s snub at the Country Music Awards to winding down with Shyne speaking his truth, all while the world tries to digest the post-election vibe.
2024 has truly been one of those years that’s reshaped how I view the steps I take moving forward. In my song “Good Life,” I sing, “Life is all what you think, it's here today and gone in one blink.” The song reflects my awareness of how precious each day is, knowing how quickly life can change. In the spirit of this song and everything unfolding around me, I’m learning the importance of pausing, just to breathe. Recognizing that after all the twists and turns life throws my way, my body can feel unbalanced, and my mind can lead me down a path of discomfort.
But wait, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the sensationalized “clickbait” on social media and the perfectly staged Instagram vacation photos of popular influencers. I can’t deny how my nervous system kicks into overdrive, as I try to resolve the feelings of uncertainty and self-doubt that creep in. I often find myself wondering what 2025 holds, feeling a tightness in my body as my thoughts wander away.
In moments like these, I slowly step back from the phone to regroup — redirecting my mind and body through deep, intentional breathing and tapping into my body’s wisdom, in hopes of coping with the never-ending mysteries of life. While breathing is a natural part of existence, I’m learning that my breathing patterns shift depending on the circumstances. Recognizing this has been a key part of taking responsibility for my own self-care.
I gently remind myself to connect with the rhythm of my heart. This has given me a deep sense of grounding and profound gratitude for simply being — knowing that my loved ones and I have made it through another year of constant change. With every breath, I’m reminded of life’s simplicity. Each breath brings a new opportunity to choose which path I want to walk. Each inhale is a reminder of the care found in community and the natural flow of life — just as the oxygen cycle flows effortlessly around us.
What did Toni Braxton say? “Breathe again!” In 2024, I’m learning that places like Ghana are ending decades-long battles with malaria, seeing Free from 106 & Park at an Usher concert, and even flared hip-hugger jeans are making a comeback — tiny sparks of joy are adding to my sense of grounding. I’m catching glimpses of positivity, giving me a piece of hope that even when things feel uncertain, we can all breathe … just a little.