Healthy Soil Really Does Matter
I love
to cook, and nothing says summer to me more than an epicurean explosion of
flavor. I feel fortunate to be able to curate meals from Hudson Valley
farms—offering everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to wholesome meats,
dairy and eggs—as well as use my homegrown herbs for seasoning and just the
right finishing touch. I enjoy shopping at roadside stands, local farm stores
and weekly farmers markets. It’s satisfying to personally connect and learn
about those who produce the foods I prepare, then share that connection with
friends and family. That being said, on hectic days or weekends, dining out is
always a welcome pleasure. Whether I’m in the mood for a refreshing afternoon
smoothie, buffalo burger, vegetarian platter or gluten-free treat, there are a
plethora of choices in Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess counties. Be sure to
turn to pages 31-44 for this month’s special Local Food and Farms section!
Summer is also a
good time to tend to the garden. Did you know there is a direct connection between
soil health and gut health? Learn more in our feature article, “The Microbiome
Connection, How Soil and Human Health are Related” on page 28. Organic, healthy
soil really does matter. And, of course, summer is also the perfect season to
enjoy the great outdoors and connect with nature. There is a growing fitness
trend called green exercise that speaks to me. Learn more about it in our Fit
Body article on page 24. If you like the idea of combining exercise with
nature, then maybe goat yoga might interest you. Find out where to take a class
on page 39.
My team and I had so much fun discovering
and interviewing local eateries and farms for this issue! We hope you will try
your hand at a new recipe, find unique ways to shop locally and dine at a
new-to-you eatery. We also found a bunch of upcoming happenings like the The
Putnam County Country Fest and 4-H Showcase, Hug a Horse fundraiser and a
restorative retreat for women in Mexico coming up this fall (good idea to
reserve your spot now!). As always, don’t forget to visit our website, WakeUpNaturally.com,
for even more articles, events and recipes.
Happy
Fourth!
Dana Boulanger, Publisher
