Natural Awakenings has always been a free monthly publication that is for, by and about the local community. Our mission is to inspire, empower and educate people to feel, do and be better. We’ve been doing that in this area for 15 years! For the past eight we years have been so excited to partner over the years with the organizers of the Health Wellness & Lifestyle Expo. The expo–now in its 8th year! –embodies the same principles and energy we have here at the magazine. The expo is happening September 14 and 15 and has a new location this year, moving to the beautifully redone Harbor Point section of Stamford. Offering two packed days of fun, education, great food, exercise, and community-building, this special event promises something for everyone. Natural Awakenings is very pleased to be a sponsor of the expo again this year; check out page 20 and the event program on pages 23-30 for all the details about what you can expect to find once there. Come on out and support this great local event—we hope to see many of you there, connecting and getting your groove on! 

In the same vein of community-building, I am thrilled this month to announce the addition of an important new team member. Managing Editor Patricia Staino is fully on board as of this edition and I could not be happier. I have known Patricia for more years than either of us cares to count at this point (we first met in high school…let’s just call it decades!) and having the opportunity to work with her again is wish-fulfillment for me. Take a look at page 16 to meet Patricia and find out how you can connect with her about submitting an article for an upcoming issue. Contributing editorial in Natural Awakenings is free and independent of advertising commitments; Patricia’s leadership and integrity will ensure that remains the case as we continue to expand. 

You’ll get a taste of her writing style in two different articles this month. We hope you enjoy her exploration of sound healing—featuring input from several beloved practitioners in this area—as well as her review of options for increasing movement in pursuit of keeping oneself vibrant and feeling young. 

As always, we appreciate the support of our diverse advertisers, contributors and distributors! We look forward to welcoming more of you to the Natural Awakenings’ community. 

Looking for something to do this month? With the Health Wellness & Lifestyle Expo leading the way, there is an astounding array of options in our area! Check out the news briefs, display ads and calendar for ideas about what to do and where to go. Take advantage of this richness…it is not available in some other areas of the country. We are truly blessed.

With love and light,

Nicole