Last week it was cold and snowy here in NYC. And while many of us were glad to see snow for the first time in almost two years, we did have to re-learn how to navigate slippery sidewalks and streets. When I went on errands and to appointments, I was mindful of shortening my usual stride and slowing down. Every step became an opportunity for balance.

Interestingly, that was how I thought I’d improve my 2024 (I don’t call it a “resolution” because then it’s doomed!): I promised myself I would seek greater balance in my life. I’m sure I’m not alone when I say “I’ve got a lot going on this year!” For me it’s growing the client roster for my public speaking coaching practice, helping produce a colleague’s new play with Pipeline Playwrights, and doing rewrites for a world premiere of my latest play being produced in Dallas in May. Along with volunteer and family activities! Not to mention just living in a world where events near and far can threaten to tip even the most equanimous of us into an abyss of despair. So I need to find mental balance.

And as I grow older, I am also aware of the need to strengthen my physical balance, as last week’s somewhat precarious walking reminded me. I have been working on that in my yoga practice, and am lucky to have a son who is a personal fitness trainer. He offers tips when I ask. I also have new boots with a good tread!

And when I stumbled and fell on 7th Avenue in Brooklyn the other day, I made a “note to self” of another attribute I need this year - flexibility. Not succumbing to rigidity enables me to “fall right” — and also think more clearly.

Our bodies and our minds are integrated. Neither functions alone. As those of you who have worked with me know, the breath that vibrates your vocal folds, enabling you to speak, is the same breath that calms you down and gets you out of your nervous zone (stretch/whooshes, anyone?). So when you stumble, or otherwise experience a physical wake-up call, you may also find a clue to a mental practice that’s important to cultivate.

I wish you a 2024 in which you find balance and stay flexible. Physically and mentally. Watch your step. And don’t forget to breathe!