We have made it through another year, and it’s hard to believe this is the last issue of Natural Awakenings for 2024! As the holiday season ramps into full swing, we invite you to set aside intentional moments to rejuvenate and reconnect with yourself. The month of December is known for its hustle and bustle, but it’s also a time to prioritize meaningful relationships, festive traditions, nourishing meals, mindfulness practices, and holistic self-care rituals. On that note, let’s make this season one of deep connection, rejuvenation, and inspiration.   

Our feature article for this issue is all about “Soulful Holiday Gifts” that focus on restoration over consumerism. There’s no denying it—this time of year can be stressful, so it’s important to extend the gift of self-care, both to your loved ones and yourself. Whether this takes the form of a soothing activity like an acupuncture session or a tangible item like an assortment of natural skincare products, investing in wellness will mean so much to each person on your list. Even a simple act of kindness such as treating a friend to coffee, delivering a home cooked meal, or curating a playlist of all their favorite songs will speak volumes.   

While we’re on the subject of holiday gifts, our “Green Living” article dives into the benefits of online shopping to bolster the local business economy. If this sounds like an oxymoron, rest assured: We’re not talking about massive corporations—your favorite indie bookshop, clothing boutique, or small-batch herbal tea purveyor will increase its retail footprint, both virtually and in the community when you place an order on the store’s website. If you want to make an impact with your dollars this season, online shopping is a convenient way to do this.     

Is it even the holiday season without a batch of cookies, fresh out of the oven? This month’s “Conscious Eating” article offers some clever ingredient swaps to make those traditional cookie recipes more nutritious—but still equally delicious. Whether you need a gluten-free alternative to classic oatmeal cookies, or you want to moderate the sugar content of your famous cinnamon snickerdoodles, this article has a solution for all those baking quandaries. You’ll also find three recipes for indulgent but healthy plant-based cookies that everyone will love.  

Well, that’s a wrap on our final issue of 2024. I am so grateful for another year of linking arms on this physical, mental, and spiritual wellness journey together. On behalf of the Natural Awakenings team, I hope you have a memorable and meaningful holiday season. We will see you right back here next month when the calendar turns to 2025!