November is a time for giving thanks; it also marks our 15th year publishing Natural Awakenings. I can say that I am feeling truly grateful and blessed. Growing up, did I ever imagine myself publishing a healthy-lifestyle magazine—a go-to resource for my community? Never. Yet, here I am thrilled and honored to rejoice in this milestone with all of you and my marvelous publishing partner, Marilee Burrell. A big thank you to you—our loyal readers—along with our amazing advertising partners and our talented NaturalAwakenings team, whose members you can “meet” here. Also, lots of thanks go out for all the love and support Marilee and I have received from family and friends over the years.

Together, we have journeyed through the ever-changing challenges of life, and now more than ever, I feel it is time to embrace our health, wellness and spirituality and raise the vibration for the greater good of our communities. I am excited, hopeful and trust that life is always working out for me.

The theme of this month’s issue is mental health, and we have an array of articles on this important topic, including our feature, “Staying Serene in Turbulent Times,” which sheds light on how to turn anxiety into positive action.

Local expert Brett Cotter shares his journey on overcoming stress, anxiety and trauma with and attitude of gratitude, kindness and unconditional love in our Wise Words article. I hear the positive, powerful healing approaches he employs in his retreats are emotionally freeing. Our Healing Ways article, “12 Quick Fixes forAnxiety,” offers readers simple strategies for mental well-being.

We are also pleased to share an interesting article by local dentist Dr. David Lerner that educates us on how our oral health may affect our mental health—who knew? Be sure to read “HowMental Health Can Be Affected by Oral Health.” Oh, and did you know that food affects our mood too? For an explanation and some delicious, mood-enhancing recipes, check out our Conscious Eating article, “The Gut BrainConnection.”

Rounding out our mental health offerings is our Inspiration article, “Gratitude is Good Medicine,” in which author Madiha Saeed shares that gratitude is not just a feel-good word, but has actual physiological consequences.

Of course, I want you to read all of this month’s fantastic articles on mental health and well-being; however, with snow season just around the corner, I have to mention our great Fit Body article, “Skiing for Fitness and Pure Fun.” Be sure to check it out, especially if you are a ski enthusiast. Yonkers chiropractor Dr. Leigh Damkohler shares her expert advice, along with others, on getting ready for the slopes, staying fit and having fun!

Speaking of fun, we hope to see you on November 20, 2022, in Tarrytown at the Awaken Wellness Fair, which celebrates its 20th year. Kudos to founder and CEO Paula Caracappa and her team. This body-mind-spirit-green expo always has a fabulous and inspiring mix of speakers, vendors, healers and readers from near and far.

Joyfully,

Dana Boulanger