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Natural Awakenings Westchester / Putnam / Dutchess New York

Publisher's Letter for August 2021

Jul 30, 2021 03:46PM ● By Dana Boulanger
Happy Summer! 

I feel lucky to be writing this month’s publisher letter and sharing my inner joy. After reading all the uplifting articles we have this month focused on happiness and well-being, I’ve been smiling from cheek to cheek.

Our feature article, on page 24, maps out many wonderful ways to cultivate joy in life. Appreciating and giving thanks for all that we have now is the art of staying present, and the key to staying present is starting each day with gratitude. I’ve practiced gratitude for many years now; I actively look for the good, and I find it’s the little things in life that pave the way to more joy. I truly believe in harnessing the power of intention: What we think and speak leads to what we do and who we are. We all have obstacles and situations in life that challenge us, and constant challenges give us the opportunity to learn lessons and understand our boundaries. From there we grow and succeed. It’s a mindset, and it takes mindfulness to shift our thinking from fear and worry to curiosity, faith and gratitude. I do believe that everything happens for a reason and that each of us has a unique life journey. I’ve had help along my journey from friends, family, groups and coaches of many kinds, and support and guidance from many of our advertising partners and the wellness community as a whole. Thank you all. I am also grateful for Mother Nature, who provides some of my biggest feel-good places. She teaches me something new every day, and her lessons are powerful. 

This month we have a terrific article on the plusses of working with a coach. If you are considering that option, read the article on page 28 and then take a look at our community resource directory, which starts on page 42. You’ll find a variety of local coaches there, along with other talented professionals that want to help you feel better and live a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. We have even more area resources at WakeUpNaturally.com, under Business Listings. And when you find the perfect provider through our directory or website, please email me and tell me about it. We always love hearing success stories from our readers. 

Even though it’s been a hot, wet summer so far, I’m making the most of it, and I look forward to attending as many local events as I can squeeze into my schedule. Maybe I’ll see you out and about—at a farmers market, at the Sunflower Festival or on the trail. I’m still working on my personal challenge to walk 52 new trails in 2021. So far I have only completed 12. Fortunately, that means I have plenty of joy ahead of me, exercising and being in nature, my happy place.

Have fun, 
Dana