Glancing through this month’s magazine leaves me with a sense of gratitude that I am able to spread enlightenment and hope to our readers during the holidays. Sprinkled throughout, you’ll find words of wisdom from several luminaries, starting with Deepak Chopra, M.D., the author of more than 90 books, including his latest, Quantum Body: The New Science of Living a Longer, Healthier, More Vital Life. I’ve learned so much from him over the years, and on page 30 he cautions, “We are sleepwalking to extinction unless we wake up.” I couldn’t agree more. 

Michael Greger, M.D., another esteemed author of several bestsellers, visits Southwest Florida next month to speak about his new release, How Not To Age: The Scientific Approach to Getting Healthier as You Get Older. I’m looking forward to meeting him and learning firsthand his secrets for slowing down the aging process and avoiding chronic diseases. See page 16 for more details on his appearances in Naples and Fort Myers. 

We all want to feel good, living a long life, be life and enjoying deep connections with loving friends and family. The holiday season can act as a barometer of how well we feel we are doing in these important areas of our lives. Significant losses and challenging circumstances can weigh even heavier at this time of year. 

I discovered years ago after an extremely difficult loss, that I had to work harder to recognize the many blessings in my life, and that I wasn’t the only one who could use kind words and loving acts. Some holidays are easier to embrace than others, but with a strong intention to look for the gifts of the season and to give freely to others, I was able to find comfort and joy.

That’s why I resonated so much with this month’s feature story, “The Grace of Giving and Receiving: Healing Through Generosity,” on page 24. Writer Carrie Jackson reminds us that by living in gratitude and supporting one another we are able to shift perspectives and understand what matters most. 

This holy season, I invite you to think about and set intentions of what you want to give, create and experience. Write them down to cement your resolve. It is my hope that this time of deliberation will bring you and your loved ones light and love. 

Wishing you a magic-filled holiday and joyous new year from our Natural Awakenings team, 

Sharon Bruckman, publisher