Summer is on its way out (in theory at least...Southwest Florida still hasn’t gotten the memo!), and the signs of fall are about to make their first appearance. The new school year is back in full-swing. Pumpkin scented everything will soon dominate the stores. Weekends are reserved for football games. And our calendars are packed so much activities that we can sometimes forget to take even just a minute for ourselves.    

That’s why our September issue of Natural Awakenings is here to remind you that, in the midst of this transitional season, the importance of self-care should not be overlooked. This month, we’re exploring a number of diverse self-care practices that can easily be integrated into your normal routine—from vibrant aging to community building to Ayurvedic eating to yoga therapy, just to name a few. So without further ado...let’s have a peek inside!  

Our feature article is on “Age-Defying Bodywork,” and delves into why massage should not be viewed as a luxury but a crucial defense to ward off the effects of premature aging. Bodywork modalities can boost cognitive function and problem-solving, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy digestion and cell regeneration—all of which are factors in the aging process.     

Another element of self-care is balanced nutrition, and our “Conscious Eating” article explores the ancient system of holistic medicine known as Ayurveda. This philosophy around eating reinforces mental and physical wellness through the preparation and consumption of natural ingredients, herbs, spices and local, seasonal foods. As the hectic pace of life in this time of year continues to accelerate, a healthy diet is crucial to energize both the mind and body.  

Finally, it’s National Yoga Month, and our “Fit Body” article describes how a consistent yoga practice can boost vitality. This regimen includes exercise, meditation, conscious breathing, and other physical, mental and spiritual components. In addition, yoga can also be a line of defense against cardiovascular disease, limited mobility and depression as the body ages. No matter what stage of life you’re in, this can be a powerful adjunct to your self-care.     

Well, that’s a glimpse into our lineup for this issue—as always, we are committed to making sure you find both inspiration and enjoyment inside these pages, and we love to hear your feedback. Please send any comments or questions to [email protected], and let’s raise a pumpkin spice latte to the start of this new fall season!