Life has been particularly challenging lately, so now is the perfect time to show compassion to everyone. Many people are feeling overwhelmed or dealing with a difficult personal issue, and so a little love and kindness can go a long way toward helping those who need it. After the election, compassion will be especially important for bringing us all together.

Self-care is increasingly important too, as we head into the colder months in a pandemic. If you haven’t done it already, start strengthening your immune system with nutrient-dense food, key supplements and a positive attitude. Move your body, whether you like to dance or hike or ride a bike. Reach out to your friends and family often, even if it’s just by phone or online. Make it a regular thing. I have a friend who meets with her siblings every week for a virtual happy hour. She doesn’t drink, but it’s become a fun family gathering for her. I group text with my sisters most days, chatting about little things like pets, football and what’s happening in our backyards or the woods nearby. In some ways I feel more connected with them now than I was before Covid. I also speak with my mom daily and video chat with her weekly. Winter can be confining, and staying in regular communication with loved ones will keep us feeling connected, so get into the habit now. Then if you start feeling isolated, it will be easy to reach out to someone. And consider coordinating with your friends and family to create your own recurring virtual gathering.

Fortunately we have a holiday this month to get excited about. Thanksgiving will be a welcome distraction, even though it may look different this year, with smaller holiday tables. If you plan to cook a turkey, check out the local, small-farm options on page 20, where you can learn how to reserve a fresh all-natural turkey. You’ll find recipes for healthier holiday side dishes in “Giving Thanks for a Healthy Feast: How to Lighten Up Thanksgiving Fare,” on page 22. If you’re searching for easy vegan options, look no further than Skinny Buddha, in Mount Kisco. They offer a complete gluten-free, vegan Thanksgiving Day takeout menu. You can order meals for one or two people or for the whole family. Meals can even be delivered right to your door. For more info, turn to page 23.

Reinventing our traditional meals with healthier options is just one way to try to prevent or manage type 2 diabetes, which is on the rise. But there are other risk factors for this chronic condition besides an unhealthy diet: Excess weight and lack of exercise play a significant role, as do air pollution, mercury and other environmental toxins. To learn more, read “Preventing Type 2 Diabetes: Natural Lifestyle Choices to Curb the Disease,” on page 32.

Looking for a fun indoor activity? Check out “Homemade Solutions for Glowing Skin,” on page 26, and learn how to make inexpensive masks, scrubs and balms using safe, natural ingredients you already have in the kitchen. To find out where to buy natural skincare products locally, see pages 28-31.

Stay social—and be kind to one another.

Marilee