Welcome to November, my dear Natural Awakenings family! It’s hard to believe how quickly time has been moving forward. It felt like summer was just last week—and now the holidays are already upon us. And while some of the country might be gearing up for the festive season, our friends to the South are still dealing with the fallout of Hurricane Ian. May I request that we continue sending prayers and support to all our fellow Floridians who were affected. Hurricane Ian really ravaged the coastline. And as we know all too well here in Northwest Florida, it’s a traumatic experience that takes time and a lot of effort and energy to recover from. 

While natural disasters can create a lot of hardship and destruction, they also provide people with the opportunity to help others who could use some extra support. After rescuing the October issue from the printer in Venice, FL—a hard-hit area where the magazine is printed—I got to witness an amazing display of humanity with an unmatched response to our fellow man in need. 

While driving back home along Interstate 75 north, I was dazzled by the unbelievable outpouring of help I saw along the way. The highway was packed with bucket trucks, utility crews, tree service companies, contractors, builders, demo companies, and more. They were streaming down the road like the Cavalry coming to save the day! It was truly a sight to behold and filled my heart with so much gratitude and awe. I am so thankful I got to observe the unfolding of this beautiful scene where so many people came out to support their neighbors. 

As we head into this month—devoted to giving thanks—let’s extend some extra gratitude for all those brave, thoughtful, generous, caring and committed first responders, volunteers and other motivated citizens who formed this Calvary to help their fellow Floridians. May we all find ways—big and small—to lend a hand to those in need this holiday season. 

And speaking of feeling generous and full of gratitude, I couldn’t be more excited for all the amazing happenings in the Natural Awakenings community this month! As always, we’ve got so many informative articles within these pages to help you live your healthiest, happiest life. We also have many awesome events happening—including the Mahabhuta Yoga VegFest taking place November 10 to 13 at the Margaritaville Beach Hotel on Pensacola Beach. This annual festival will feature live music, yoga and meditation, art exhibits, sand art installations—and plenty of vegan food vendors. To learn more, see news brief on page 11. 

In addition, Dragonfly Yoga in Fort Walton Beach is excited to host renowned yoga teacher Doug Keller for a weekend Yoga Immersion titled Rediscovering Freedom: The Therapeutic Wisdom of Yoga. This event is being held January 20 to 22. For more information, see news brief on page 20. 

Also, we’re excited to announce the grand opening of Emerald Coast Crystal Gallery in Santa Rosa Beach, FL. The gallery specializes in sustainably sourced crystals and minerals. Owners Denny and Shannon Teixeira are excited to share their collection with the community. See news brief on page 10. 

Wishing you all a month filled with experiences to be grateful for and a heart filled with wonder!