As the crisp energy of fall settles in, October invites us to pause, recenter, and tune into the various holistic pathways that lead to healing. In this month’s issue of Natural Awakenings, we will explore, “How Healing Works,” probing beyond those “cure alls” and “quick fixes” to the intentional practices that nourish true physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. In this new season of change, let’s embrace deeper healing from the inside out!  

As usual, we’ll dive right in with this month’s feature article, “Life After Cancer: The Healing Journey.” According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 18.6 million Americans beat their cancer diagnoses in 2025, many of whom reported coming away from this experience with a renewed outlook on life and a more profound sense of meaning. This article peels back the layers of wisdom that cancer survivors can offer all of us about gratitude, resilience, connection, presence, and intentionality. These lessons remind us that healing is often nurtured in simple, sustaining wellness rituals, which can ultimately help us flourish and thrive.  

Juicy, crisp, and full of natural sweetness, apples are a seasonal favorite, and they also take center stage in our “Conscious Eating” article. This humble fruit is more than a tasty fall snack—it’s also a nutritional superfood, brimming with essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. In this article, we’ll look at the frequently overlooked health benefits of apples and make the case for including them in your meal rotation. There’s no shortage of versatile ways to cook with them, too—from chutneys and slaws to jams and curries.    

Manicured backyards are attractive, but as this month’s “Green Living” article points out, allowing certain areas of a backyard to grow wild is an easy and effective action homeowners can take toward nature conservation. Whether you landscape with native plants that attract local pollinators or integrate features such as birdhouses, bat boxes, bee hotels, and brush piles, you can transform an outdoor space into a haven for wildlife. Here in Florida, where we have so much biodiversity, it’s crucial to do what we can to protect our environment.  

Autumn is such a special time of rejuvenation and restoration, so as October unfolds, I hope you will encounter meaningful and beautiful opportunities to invest in your own continuous healing journey. I’ll see you back here next month as we usher in another holiday season!