For those of us who are blessed to live in Northwest Florida, where a beach or a bayou is often just minutes from our doorstep, the “staycation” is a way of life. Still, the past few weeks have been confining, to say the least. As we cautiously reopen, trying to find that balance between living life without risking it, we have a perfect excuse to explore some of the natural spaces we might have been taking for granted. There’s still much we don’t know about Covid-19, but one thing all medical experts agree on is that getting a regular dose of nature is good for your mental and physical health. This issue of Natural Awakenings can help you make that happen.

Our feature article, “Transformative Staycations,” page 24, is full of innovative ideas for getting away from it all while sticking close to home. Or if you want to feed your wanderlust while keeping your social distance, consider renting a van or an RV. For the nuts and bolts, read “Everyday Adventures,” page 28. We’ve also noticed that a lot more people are hitting the road on two wheels. If you’re considering dusting off your old bicycle or buying a new one, turn to page 18 first, for a quick refresher on safe cycling.

We always appreciate it when local health and wellness experts are willing to share their knowledge with our readers. In a time of pandemic, their voices are more important than ever. To that end, two Fort Walton Beach business owners, Brian Mobley and Laura Tyree, have written articles intended to help you stay safe and well right now. Brian, who owns the Golden Almond Health Store, offers DIY advice on page 20 for making sanitizers (which are still hard to come by nowadays). Laura, owner of Dragonfly Yoga and Hot Yoga Om, explains the physiological connection between yoga and enhanced immune function. Her article is on page 22.

The healthy living community is tight-knit in Northwest Florida, and those bonds only get stronger in tough times. We survive, and thrive, together. So especially now, be mindful of where you choose to spend your money; keep your dollars local whenever possible. Most area shops, like PCB Hemp Company (page 10), have adjusted to the new normal and are open for business—physically, virtually or both. Please support them.

Thanks to a new, nationwide digital platform, KnoWeWell.com, some local providers and businesses focused on wellness—including Natural Awakenings—have a new way to help people lead happier, healthier lives. This is a vast space where consumers can find vetted, peer-reviewed information on natural and alternative health care, and where practitioners can share that information and connect with consumers. KnoWeWell has just launched, but it’s a comprehensive platform with great minds behind it. Watch that space. 

We’re so grateful for you, our readers, who’ve continued to support us through hurricanes and now a pandemic. We promise to be here for you, as you’ve been here for us. 

Stay safe.

Scott & Daralyn