November is here, and along with this month comes the official start of the holiday season! This is a time of year to surround ourselves with family and friends, to soak in the rich colors and luscious flavors that just scream “fall,” and to slow down enough to remember all we have to be thankful for. But this season can also be hectic as we scramble to prepare for out-of-town guests and traditional feasts that take hours in the kitchen to pull off. That’s why our latest issue of Natural Awakenings is an invitation to get back to the basics of physical and mental wellness, so you can be present to enjoy this month of gratitude. Here’s a peek inside! 

Our feature article for November is on “Better Sleep” because this is one of the main foundations to a healthy, balanced and vibrant lifestyle. Compromised sleep affects your relationships, job performance and overall quality of life. It can also result in all kinds of health issues such as chronic inflammation, reduced immune function, anxiety or depression, and an elevated risk of heart attacks or strokes. However, when your sleep is restful and consistent, you are able to accomplish more in the day and feel more energized in the process. This article also recommends natural solutions to improve your sleep habits such as acupuncture, mindful breathing, nutrition, exercise, meditation, CBD oil and adaptogenic plants.   

Speaking of nutrition, our “Conscious Eating” article this month explores the food rituals of Buddhism and how nourishing our bodies is a spiritual practice. You don’t have to be immersed in the Buddhist tradition, however, to learn the art of mindful cooking—just in time for this year’s Thanksgiving spread! In this article, three of the nation’s foremost Zen chefs share their wisdom on how to be more grateful and at peace around the dinner table.  

Gratitude is obviously an important value this time of year, and it’s something we should instill in our children now more than ever. Our “Healthy Kids” article delves into just that—how to inspire the next generation to express thankfulness and appreciation for the blessings in their lives. Not only does this nurture their kindness, integrity and character as humans, but it also has a positive impact on their well-being too. In fact, studies have found that grateful kids tend to be more relational, content and well-adjusted—not to mention, less envious, depressed, materialistic or prone to violence. So let’s seize the opportunity to model gratitude this season. 

My hope for this issue is that it fills you with pure enjoyment and enlightenment as the holidays draw near. Please send any comments, questions or feedback to [email protected], and from all of us at Natural Awakenings, here’s to a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving!