When you nurture Nature, Nature nurtures you. —Donald L. Hicks

It can’t be said often enough: There is something about spending time in nature that’s restorative to the soul. It’s hearing birds in the early morning, touching the earth with bare feet, noticing sunlight filtering through leaves and feeling the flow of tending a garden. It’s witnessing a pair of butterflies dancing through the backyard and the surprise of a rainbow during a summer shower. When we pause long enough to notice, slow our breath and take it in, nature has an extraordinary ability to draw our attention away from life’s distractions and back to the present moment.

Nature also reminds us that life is interconnected. A single native flower nourishes dozens of pollinators, and a mighty oak provides food, shelter, shade and habitat for countless forms of life. Healthy soil is filled with organisms doing their work beneath the surface. Every living thing is part of a larger system of reciprocity and relationship. When we observe these connections, we begin to see how we are all linked together.

Beyond recreation and relaxation, time in nature offers opportunities to reconnect—with ourselves, with one another and with the living world that sustains us. Perhaps that is why this theme finds its way so often into these pages. Again and again, we are drawn to stories that remind us of our connection to place, community and the natural rhythms that support a healthy, meaningful life.

This July issue is a celebration of the good vibes that await just beyond our doors. Our feature article explores the growing movement of taking wellness outside, where fresh air, sunlight and natural surroundings enhance practices that nurture body, mind and spirit. We also highlight opportunities throughout the region to gather with others for yoga on rooftops, in meadows and other inspiring outdoor settings.

Contributor Molly Swan reflects on the deeper dimensions of travel and exploration in “More Than Footprints,” sharing how reciprocity, stewardship and mindful interaction with the natural world can enrich our experiences both close to home and far afield. We also celebrate the miles of trails, protected lands and restored waterways that make our region such a treasure, along with the dedicated volunteers, stewards and supporters of Lancaster Conservancy whose efforts help preserve these places for generations to come.

We can think of no better place to enjoy this month’s

magazine than outdoors—perhaps on a porch, beneath a shade tree, beside a garden in bloom, or wherever nature invites you to pause and stay awhile.

May you find joy in nurturing the places that nurture you in return.

Kendra Campbell & Jacqueline Mast, Co-Publishers, Executive Editors