As I step into 2023, I am both humbled and inspired. Life is truly an incredible journey, and this past year presented me with many challenges that have proven to be some of my greatest lessons. I continue to learn and gain increased wisdom daily. I intend to stay present and grounded and hold space for myself, my circle and my community to grow, flourish and lovingly enjoy life. My New Year’s goal is simple: More Joy.

We begin the year with the all-important theme of Health and Wellness. This month’s articles are focused on how we fuel our bodies, spirits and minds. Our feature article, “Brain Power Boosters,” on page 28, addresses foods and herbs that support our cognition. While the entire theme of our Inspiration department article, “Welcoming the Unknown,” on page 30, speaks volumes to me, I especially resonate with, “Instead of making a resolution, what if we made the simple decision to not believe our fears?” Our thinking, perspective and attitude are just as key to our well-being as what we eat.

As always, we have interesting and exciting news to share regarding new businesses, events, lectures and more in our News Briefs section on pages 8-12. Also, be sure to check out our specialty pages on pages 27, 31 and 37 for even more local news. The new year is a great time to try a new class or make plans to attend an event, and our calendar of events, starting on page 40, is chock-full of happenings for you to enjoy. Remember to also visit our online calendar for even more local events.

My publishing partner, Marilee Burrell, peacefully passed away on November 21 surrounded by her family. May her spirit soar free and her light always shine. I am so grateful for our years together. She handed her publishing baton to me to continue what we started 15 years ago. We worked as a team, so in her absence I have hired several well-seasoned Natural Awakenings professionals. We now have an editorial team, ad and layout designers and an assistant to help me with overall operations and manage our website. Please learn more about this dynamic mix of talented individuals on page 6. I am really excited to kick off the new year with this new team, and I am open to making positive shifts to enhance and expand our local editorial content. I am also eager to connect with our readers and wellness community even more than before. Please let us know about upcoming regional events and local businesses that align with our mission of empowering our community with knowledge, resources and connections to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

Gratefully,

Dana Boulanger, Publisher

IMPORTANT NOTE

Our annual Natural Living Directory has been rescheduled to come out in the spring in our March edition. This annual guide is a resource for readers to use all year long, both in print and online. It contains a plethora of local wellness businesses and practitioners that offer products and services that support our community’s health and wellness. We are seeking to connect with an even broader variety of businesses and nonprofits, so our readers can find everything they need for themselves, their pets, their homes and their families to enjoy a healthier lifestyle. Please contact us before February 10 to be part of this cherished annual resource.