God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference—Reinhold Niebuhr

Healing is a return to wholeness and the regaining of inner harmony that allows for an original joy residing at the very core of our existence. Moving into a refreshing new season, we pause to honor National Recovery Month (RecoveryMonth.gov), as September marks the 25th year of supporting optimal wellness in the realm of mental health and substance use disorders. This year’s theme, “Speaking Up and Reaching Out,” affirms the hope and effectiveness in such noble efforts, promoting positive connections for those that are ready and supporting awareness for the empowering path of recovery.

The magazine’s September theme, “Yoga and Conscious Caretaking,” also embraces intentional attitudes of reclaiming self and choosing life through personal practices that integrate mind, body and spirit. Regenerative forces that shape the spiral of the universe are prompted by the courage to stop, breathe and feel the deepest nudge of a life force that wants to circulate and support our highest good. In a dignified return to center, filling our own cups first is not just a well-worn adage, but also a basic truth in the flow that nurtures self and others.

In the spirit of honoring the transitions that come with soul searching and divine timing, we say goodbye to a co-founding team member, Lois Schultz, who has been with us for nearly two years now.

In her own words:

In May 2012, after much discussion and contemplation, Jackie, Kendra and I began our journey as publishers of Natural Awakenings, Lancaster-Berks, driven by our passion to raise consciousness about natural health and environmental concerns. It has been a fascinating experience to pack our days and weeks with commitments to our full-time careers while simultaneously delivering a new and informative edition each month.

As director of sales, I enjoyed the  privilege of meeting and serving you, brilliant practitioners, business owners and valued readers, each with your own special story about what led you on this path to love, offer and support the practices found within our pages. With the growth of the magazine and an increased time commitment, long days began to affect my physical state and important personal relationships, which was counter to the message we set out to provide.

After much consideration, I am choosing to complete my role as co-publisher with this edition. My love and appreciation of Jackie and Kendra, the entire Natural Awakenings family and our valued advertisers and dedicated readers continues as each of us, in our own way, brings about positive change and moves forward into a new day of discovery and possibilities.

With Love and Gratitude,

          ~Lois

Kendra and I would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Lois for her positive energy and enthusiasm in supporting the holistic community and our vision for sustaining this publication as your local resource. We remain committed to bringing you Natural Awakenings every month, with a focus on a brighter future and healthier world for all and an attentive eye on the beauty in this very day.

Peace and blessings to you all~         

         ~Jacqueline & Kendra