As we transition into spring here on the Suncoast, this time of year has me thinking about renewal. Spring is traditionally a season of vibrant new life: animals emerge from the darkness of hibernation, plants stretch their leaves out from beneath the soil, and we look forward to longer days of warm breezes and brilliant sunshine—before those summer rains blow in.   

As we shed the layers of winter (figuratively, of course...this is Florida, after all!) and embrace the renewal of spring, we’ll be turning back to the basics of this month’s issue of Natural Awakenings. For us, March is all about reclaiming mind-body-spirit wellness. I think we could all use a refresher course in this area after two years of pandemic stress and uncertainty. So join us for a month full of balanced nutrition, gentle fitness, and mindful self-care!  

We’ll start off this month’s wellness refresh with our feature article: “Plant-Based Eating Goes Mainstream.” As both the nutritional and environmental benefits of plant-based eating continue to build traction, it’s become easier and more accessible that ever to adopt a vegan lifestyle. From dairy and meat substitutes on supermarket aisles, to veggie burgers sold at ballpark concession stands, to entirely plant-based meal subscription kits, companies are finding new innovative, delicious ways to ensure the meatless trend is here to stay.    

Next, we’ll move from the body to the mind in our “Healing Ways” article, which delves into the importance of burnout recovery. In the aftermath of this two-year public health crisis, burnout has turned into a society norm, with record levels fatigue, cynicism, apathy and negative mental health outcomes on the rise. But as we look to heal as a culture and strive for balance instead of burnout, it’s crucial to root ourselves in pockets of joy and gratitude, while also being honest about the areas in life we can control versus the expectations we need to release.    

Finally, let’s pivot into the spiritual realm of wellness with this month’s “Inspiration” article on the topic of journaling for inner wisdom. In those times when we feel anxious or overwhelmed, journaling can be such a balm for the human soul. So find a quiet, solitary moment to pause from daily stressors, take a few deep breaths, then open a journal and write a letter to your future self. Acknowledge the hardships you feel without judgment, free yourself from the burdens you no longer have to bear, choose your next step in the right direction, and shower yourself with genuine love. The more you practice this, the lighter you’ll feel.   

As usual, friends, this is just a quick glimpse into all the wellness gems you are sure to find in these pages. Also, we are introducing a new crossword puzzle challenge for our readers this month. The clues will come from various articles in this issue, and the answers will be posted on my website, NASRQ.com—feel free to play along!   

It’s an honor to be on this continued health journey together, so thank you for inviting us into your homes each month. I hope you lean into the beauty of renewal this season and seek refreshment for your own mental, physical and spiritual health.