A Heartfelt February

It’s only natural at the onset of February for our thoughts to turn towards the heart. After all, it is both a physical powerhouse and a symbol of love in all its forms. As Valentine’s Day hearts fashion windows and doors, this month’s issue is fittingly an exploration and celebration of the multifaceted beauty of this vital organ, from its crucial role in keeping us alive to its capacity for connection, compassion and joy. 

By focusing on emotional, mental and spiritual well-being, we can develop more effective strategies for maintaining a healthy heart. Living a balanced lifestyle—eating well, staying active, managing stress and staying connected spiritually through mindfulness—helps reduce stress and boosts overall longevity. Have you thought about prioritizing the health of your own heart lately? You’ll find tools to support a vibrant life within these pages, including heart-healthy tips and recipes, as well as ways to nurture relationships and deepen self-care. 

February is surely a time to embrace all forms of love—romantic, platonic, self-love and everything in between. I’m particularly excited to try the recipes featured in this issue (see page 22) that focus on chocolate! I plan to carve out time with my husband to try them while embracing some special moments together in the kitchen. The love and joy we bring to each other and to our family is boundless, not always effortless, but continually present and growing with every passing day. As I watch my kids grow, with their open hearts and infinite curiosity, I’m inspired to navigate life with more kindness and wonder myself. 

Love is all around us, and nowhere is it more evident than in the grounding presence of our pets. They teach us unconditional love, remind us to stay present and bring comfort even on the most challenging of days. Caring for their health and happiness is much like caring for family—a commitment that rewards us tenfold with their loyalty and affection. For insight on supporting your four-legged loved ones, check out “Holistic Lifestyle for Dogs” on page 21.

If you’ve already drifted from your New Year’s resolutions or intentions, now is the perfect time to regroup and refocus. Hopefully you’ll be inspired this month to seek out moments of clarity, togetherness and warmth. Practicing heartfelt emotions like gratitude and compassion can also positively impact both mental and physical health. No matter what, simply taking a deep breath and starting fresh is always on the table, too. 

Lastly, don't forget that the early bird deadline for participating in our 2025 Natural Living Directory is February 12! This special annual issue is a year-round resource for people looking for solutions to health conditions, other services and products that's shared and revisited again and again. Providers shouldn't miss the chance to be included in this highly anticipated annual edition. Expand your reach in 2025, be listed in our Westchester/Putnam/Dutchess NY Natural Living Directory too! New York deadline is February 10.

Wishing you a month filled with connection, renewal and love,

Erica