There was a time in my life when I thought strength meant pushing through, staying busy and carrying the weight of life without letting anyone see you struggle. Many of us—men in particular—were raised to believe that vulnerability was weakness and asking for help somehow meant failure. But life has a way of reshaping our perspective.

Through grief, motherhood, love, uncertainty and healing, I’ve learned to redefine what it means to be strong. Today, I believe strength is about staying present through life’s hardest moments and showing up for loved ones, while never forgetting to care for yourself along the way. An important piece of that, for me, has been learning that allowing support in is not weakness, but part of healing.

While this month’s feature, “The Facts About Low Testosterone,” on page 24, offers valuable insights on men’s health and hormone levels, its message extends far beyond that, addressing stress, exhaustion, burnout, emotional health and the growing reality that many men are quietly running on empty. It highlights how sleep, chronic anxiety, emotional suppression and lifestyle significantly impact vitality and long-term health.

As I read it, I found myself reflecting on how connected our emotional and physical health truly are. Stress has a way of quietly settling into the body when we don’t slow down long enough to acknowledge it. Many people carry invisible weight while still trying to show up for their families, their work and the people they love. It’s a reminder that true wellness isn’t just physical, but also emotional, mental and spiritual—and that we are deeply connected to each other. We were never meant to carry life’s heaviest seasons entirely alone.

As a daughter, future wife and mother, I hope the next generation’s definition of strength embodies kindness, emotional honesty, resilience and presence—not perfection or toughness. For me, thriving means living with intention: caring for your health, spending time outdoors, finding meaningful connection and allowing yourself to be fully human.

True strength comes not from carrying burdens alone, but from loving, healing and staying connected through life’s hardest seasons.

Wishing you a June filled with strength, connection, healing and meaningful moments along the way. Happy Father’s Day to all the men who love and support us. Be sure to share this month’s special Men’s Edition with them.

With gratitude,
Alina