This is the thirteenth year that Natural Awakenings has been serving the many communities of western Connecticut. Over the years, we have fostered inspiration, growth, education and lots of connections through rich content, diverse advertising and promotion of/involvement in many community activities. In February each year, we create a showcase reference guide for the businesses and practitioners in the region, a celebration and gathering of what our area has to offer. Welcome to the 2018 Natural Living Directory! 

It feels like our area is positively exploding with momentum, purpose and energy! This year’s edition reflects that; it is one of our largest yet, including more than 200 businesses waiting to help our readers achieve their goals in 2018. While an exciting growth milestone for us, this issue makes an even more important and powerful statement about the vitality and passion of the providers we are fortunate to connect with our loyal, engaged readers. Our local community is rich with truly incredible resources, as the following pages can attest. 

In this special issue, we move the regular Community Resource Guide toward the front of the magazine. We include expanded profiles of many wellness providers and businesses as well as a Natural Living Glossary to help you better understand terminology which may be new. We’re confident that no matter what your personal vision or mission is for this year, you will find something or someone in these pages that inspires or supports your efforts to become a healthier, happier you. The depth and breadth of this edition make it a true reference guide to be kept all year and referred to in times of need. Don’t worry if you lend your copy out and it doesn’t come back! You’ll have plenty of opportunity to pick up another; this unique edition can be found throughout Fairfield and southwestern Litchfield Counties at our major rack distribution points, events and conferences throughout the rest of the year. And don’t forget you can always find the digital edition on eNaturalAwakenings.com or visit our Facebook page for the link. 

Empowering positive lifestyle change is the driving mission of this publication. That has never been more important; finding and maintaining personal balance is absolutely necessary as the world around us shifts in major ways out of our immediate control. Learn to surf the waves of uncertainty and use your infinite power for your own good. Let the amazing resources in this edition be your guides and supports on your journey. Use the ideas and tools that appeal to you; then let your increased positive energy ripple back out into the world around you. It will make a bigger difference than you could ever know. 

May 2018 be everything you desire and bring more than you have yet dreamed. Here’s to a vibrant year of well-being for you, your family (human, furry, scaled or feathered), friends, community and the world we all share.

With love and light,

Nicole