Nourishment comes in many forms, a necessary combination of feast and flow, each source a welcome energetic boost. Longer days and more sunlight; clean, fresh air from a seaside escape; adequate, pure hydration; lots of laughter; sincere spiritual practice; caring community, quality sleep; and a balanced and nutritious diet are what sustain us. We only need to be open to this array of organic abundance that resets and right-sizes each precious day. How can we best prepare to receive it? Setting the table, lighting a candle and slowly exhaling all are postures of readiness that honor these gifts.

This pause is a vital component to the nurturing process, a grounding in the moment to prepare, assess options and in a heartbeat, acknowledge the environment from which we draw life. A survey of our surroundings here in Southeastern PA confirms a rich heritage and ongoing supply of local abundance. Farmers, many organic, offer a rich array of produce and often collaborate with educational resources and other community advocates that support sustainable, chemical-free and environmentally gentle practices. It is a colorful, vibrant and bountiful view.

This month, we take a look at the quality of our food sources, including soil, seed and farming approaches that revitalize and preserve nutrient content. Our contributors highlight examples of wisdom and expertise in regenerative and climate-friendly farming, as well as the many advantages of grocers that prioritize local sources and connections. Working more with nature and not against her, we are encouraged by the direct link between the health of our land and the health of our communities.

A mindful perspective will refine our views on health, giving our ideas about nutrition a more thorough review because it is crucial to consider the integration and processing of all we ingest. Factors such as gut health and digestion variables heavily influence the absorption of important vitamins and minerals. We may hunt and gather consciously, but if our tissues are inflamed, the uptake of vital dietary components will lag, and so will energy, immunity and ultimately, health.

Our relationship with the land emerges as a constant theme as we engage in the rhythm of give and take that defines this mutually beneficial dynamic. Our feature story, “The Microbiome Connection, How Soil and Human Health are Related,” illuminates this potential connection even further, supporting the concept that organic choices fortify our lives. Digging in the dirt transforms landscapes and prepares gardens for flourishing; an act of love between ourselves and Mother Earth.

Acknowledging the source of our thriving and the ways planet and people come together to create our meals and support our communities is an important component of our gratitude. As you consciously choose and gather your own nourishment this season, we invite you to consider a calm, abiding presence of mind to honor the optimal use of these gifts.

Enjoy!