Many people hear fireworks on New Year’s Eve, but to us it sounds more like a starting pistol, as we begin preparing for the burst in health and fitness interest ignited by resolutions and vision boards. We recognize the moment as prime time to reach more readers by giving them the inspiration and tools to embrace their passion, live healthier, feel great and find their joy. As we put the finishing touches on our annual Natural Living Directory and prepare for our annual Holistic Health Expo, we are constantly reminded of the many wonderful providers and practitioners in our community who are dedicated to bringing us the most current knowledge, fine-tuned skills and advanced health care—because they care. \

“Rising Above Adversity,” page 38, expounds on those who choose to thrive, not just survive. Like so many in our Natural Awakenings community, they purposely redirected their adversities to help others. Their ailments, challenges and struggles became ours to learn from and lean on so that we could heal within. In story after story, we’ve covered and revealed the most passionate “thrivers” in Northwest Florida, with solid intentions to connect and serve. Both our directory and the Holistic Health Expo give us all an opportunity to connect and resonate with each other, and with what is truly important in life.  

Our contributors raced to the finish line—in this case, our directory deadline—to share their stories, their personal challenges and their passion to provide the most advanced science and cutting-edge modalities in natural wellness and healing. Keep this directory (pages 20-37) at your fingertips all year—and remember to refer to our online directory, at NWFNaturally.com, for new listings, which become available every day.

Turn to page 10 to learn what’s new with this year’s expo, which will be bigger than ever. We are beyond excited to showcase a fair trade fashion show, the “make-n-take” Emerald City of health and wellness, and a lineup of free expert panels and presentations. More than 100 of Northwest Florida’s finest will come together March 10 and 11 to bring Natural Awakenings alive. 

We look forward to seeing you there!

Together we connect in strength and resilience,

Daralyn and Scott