Welcome, readers, to the start of 2020! It’s both a new year and a new decade which means the possibilities for growth and renewal are endless. In our first issue of this year, Natural Awakenings wants to take you on a journey of exploration to discover habits and practices that will lead to more balance, health and vitality—no matter what stage of life you’re in.  

To kickstart this issue, our feature article is all about the power of “Age-Defying Habits” that empower you to not just extend the longevity on your time here on this planet, but to enhance the quality of it too. This article delves into some of the incremental but meaningful shifts you can make in nutrition, exercise, sleep patterns, social engagement and attitude in order to manifest a higher sense of enjoyment and purpose in your life. These intentional habits can increase all areas of well-being—physical, mental, emotional and spiritual—as you age.   

Speaking of the holistic connection between mental and physical health, this month’s “Fit Body” article focuses on the benefits of conscious, low-impact exercise to mitigate effects of stress on both the mind and body. While high-intensity workouts have been found to escalate the body’s stress response, mindful exercises such as yoga, dance and Pilates activate the body’s natural circadian rhythms, metabolic function and hormonal release to manage chronic stress. This leads to sustainable fitness results and a more active, resilient mind-body connection.   

Finally, while the new year ushers in the opportunity for a fresh start, that’s not all it brings with it. These winter months are also notorious for spikes in cold and flu symptoms, so our “Conscious Eating” article explores how to use food as medicine with the right kind of immunity boosting nutrition. For instance, colorful plant-based meals enriched with vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients are essential for immune system, while processed foods such as meat, dairy and wheat should be limited whenever possible. The more your body is fueled with wholesome nourishment, the more energized and resistant to sickness you will be. After all, a healthy and vibrant lifestyle often begins in the kitchen. 

This is just merely scratching the surface of all that awaits you in our first issue of 2020. Please join the wellness conversation and send questions, comments or feedback you might have to [email protected]. We look forward to another year on this path with all of you!