Welcome to the December Holiday Issue of Natural Awakenings, where we continue to emphasize healthy living on a healthy planet. I always wonder what Natural Awakenings means to my readers. To me, Natural Awakenings opens possibilities to connect with others at wellness events, be educated on the latest in natural health and sustainability and be empowered to live healthier lifestyles in a healthier environment. We are like a family, doing this together. Because of Natural Awakenings, I am inspired to live a healthier, more balanced life. I’d love to hear about what inspires you.

I so appreciate the companies that advertise within who educate us on how to live this balanced lifestyle. They provide access to a variety of healthy, organic and natural products. I’ve learned about many local farmers’ markets that I never knew about before and the number of local holistic practitioners and providers is truly remarkable. Consider checking out some of our advertisers: holistic healers, massage and yoga therapy, CBD stores, restaurants, Rolfing, reiki, chiropractic, energy healing, salt therapy…the list goes on!

You may know, Natural Awakenings Magazine was ranked 5th Nationally in Cision’s 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines. Cision is the world’s leading source of media research. Also in 2016, there was a Natural Awakenings readership survey. You might also be interested to know a few statistics about you, the reader: 85 percent are female between the ages of 35 and 54; 66 percent have been reading Natural Awakenings for more than two years; 34 percent share their copy with two or more additional readers; 88 percent purchase healthy or organic food; 47 percent regularly attend spiritual or healing events; 48 percent regularly attend exercise or fitness events. You are a loyal, health-seeking, inspired group of people. Thank you for your support of our magazine. Please note, we have a new readership survey this month on page 7. I hope you will take a moment to let us know who you are five years later.

Lastly, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all you local business owners for stepping out in faith to discover, design and deliver your passion to the world. I have come to know and admire so many talented, Gulf Coast individuals. You work hard every day to provide much needed holistic products and services to us. I share your passion as a health-focused entrepreneur and will support you in every way I know how. Please reach out and we will collaborate! Keep doing what you’re doing and I’ll keep doing what I do, publishing this inspiring monthly magazine with your help.

May God bless you and keep you until we meet,

Michelle Smith, Publisher