Welcome to 2021 and our annual Health and Wellness issue. When we launched our magazine in 2006, life seemed simpler, but while many of the topics we discussed then remain relevant today, new issues have emerged, too. The good news is that there is hope; in this edition, we delve into the challenges and opportunities of a new decade as we move forward with renewed resolve.

      Our feature story on integrative hospital care highlights the natural healing therapies that hospitals are increasingly incorporating into their medical models in response to emerging research and patient interest—from acupuncture and aromatherapy to touch therapy, biofeedback and yoga.

            Another advancement is the number of pediatricians that identify as integrative, which has grown from a dozen 30 years ago to 400-plus today, spurred by a growing number of childhood chronic conditions and Google-savvy parents interested in gentler, non-pharmaceutical approaches. Read more in “Healing the Whole Child.”

            Fitness clubs and boutique studios are making significant changes to address pandemic concerns and keep up with industry trends, as we report in “Staying Fit in 2021.” Look for safer workout environments, virtual fitness sessions, streaming websites that offer yoga and muscle-building subscriptions and wearable fitness apps to measure all the key metrics.

            Among the most notable fitness changes is the emphasis on better health and inner peace over weight loss. CLose Weight without Dieting” explains the wisdom of replacing unsustainable or faddish diets with long-term eating habits that include fewer processed foods and more plant-based options.

            With the introduction of genetically modified organisms into our food and environment, the overuse of medications, out-of-control consumption of processed foods and the runaway stress levels of modern life, we’ve created fertile ground for a whole new host of autoimmune diseases. Terry Wahls, the author of a groundbreaking diet and lifestyle protocol, brings hope for millions suffering with such conditions.

            White sage smoke, fresh blooms, scattered rose petals and air misted with ethereal scents are all ways to take the concept of housewarming to a sacred level. Whether done privately or with kindred souls or accompanied by prayers or songs, a simple ceremony or gestures of intention undertaken with beauty can usher in life in a new space. For us, it is the best way to clear negative energy and revitalize our home and workplace. And oh, it smells so wonderful. Discover more in our Inspiration department article, “House Blessings for Clearing and Protecting Spaces.”

            We couldn’t have imagined this new world we live in when we greeted 2020 a year ago, and who knows what 2021 will bring? It’s more important than ever to strengthen our immune systems, hone our minds and keep our hearts open. Everything and anything is still possible if we join together, hold our highest visions and take action to create the kind of world we know is possible.

Here’s to a bright new year!

Trina and John Voell

Publishers