May marks my first anniversary at the helm of our community’s own Natural Awakenings and I could not have done it without everyone’s ongoing support and contributions. Over the past year, I have learned a lot about addressing readers’ needs, writing, advertising, sales, distribution and all that goes into owning a publishing business.

Of course, there’s always more to learn. By the time this issue is on the newsstands, I will be joining fellow Natural Awakenings publishers at our annual conference to exchange ideas and tap the expertise of national speakers. I cannot wait to bring back fresh energy to meet upcoming challenges and new ideas to infuse into our local magazine.

This issue, which focuses on Women’s Wellness, will be followed by coverage of Men’s Wellness and Children’s Health later this summer because our overarching goal is to help everyone make the best, most informed choices for optimum well-being. Because America’s conventional healthcare system is geared more to treating than preventing disease, each of us must be proactive in caring for our own and our family’s well-being. Each month we present an array of natural, gentle and commonsense approaches that have helped others so that you can choose what suits and works best for you.

Fortunately, simple lifestyle choices we already have at hand will help us stay vibrant at any age. This month, experts interviewed by Kathleen Barnes in “Aging Gracefully It’s No Mystery: We Now Know How” offer a roadmap to guide us all to achieve an ongoing better quality of life.

Many of the steps we can take to support our best self don’t cost a dime, like taking a walk or getting enough sleep. Drinking plenty of purified water is another helpful habit. Eating a healthy diet of fresh vegetables and fruits, plus fish and a little lean meat and poultry (while minimizing refined sugars), can work on a budget with some planning.

Readers like you and me are always looking for ways to improve our health and that of the planet and to enrich our lives at home, work and play. One of the best ways to feed our mind, body and spirit is to grow some of our own food. Nutritious produce can be grown in containers even on a small patio or balcony. Summer farmers’ markets, too, are ripe with potential.

Each stage of our life awakens new possibilities and we can all rejoice in our own springtime renewal. Each day I give thanks to all of you that make this magazine possible. I awake each morning with a sense of purpose and belonging in this wonderful natural health community and am grateful for the opportunity to continue the journey with you.

To your health and happiness always, Audrey

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