Friends,

One of the things I cherish about being from Jersey is the privilege of experiencing all four seasons. Just when I begin to feel weary from the summer heat, Mother Nature graces us with the cool embrace of fall. The air turns crisp, layers become our new fashion statement, fire pits crackle to life and the leaves begin their vibrant transformation. In my family, we have a cherished tradition of apple picking at a local orchard, followed by the warm, comforting scent of spiced apples baking in the oven. And let’s not forget those melt-in-your-mouth apple cider donuts—just thinking about them makes me eager for fall’s arrival!

September also marks the time when our summer vacations, or weekends “down the shore,” start to wind down. Kids head back to school, and we all begin to settle back into our daily routines. It’s the perfect moment to refocus on our physical and emotional well-being.

This September issue of Natural Awakenings South Jersey is dedicated to Emotional Healing, a theme that feels particularly relevant as we transition into this season of change. Our feature story, “Stopping the Trauma Cycle: Mind-Body Healing Strategies,” shows us ways trauma can affect us all—whether through loss, heartbreak, or unexpected life events. With 70 percent of adults having experienced at least one traumatic event and over one-third of all youth exposed to community violence facing post-traumatic stress disorder, it’s clear that this is a topic we cannot ignore.

In addition, we explore “Emotional Healing as a Family: How Parents Can Model Mental Health Skills.” This article offers invaluable insights into how families can support each other through these challenges.

We’re also featuring some wonderful local voices in this issue. Local high school student Emily Ashton shares her “Coping with Senior Stress: Navigating the Final Year.” Her practical advice and mindful approaches offer a fresh perspective on managing the pressures that come with this significant life stage. Additionally, don’t miss our article on “Embracing Meditation: A Guide for Busy Minds” which provides easy-to-implement strategies to cultivate mindfulness amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Also, don’t miss our story on the “Health Benefits of Yoga: Resolving Trauma and Other Mind-Body Challenges,” and a heartwarming article on the “Healing Power of Therapy Dogs: Benefits for Post-Traumatic Stress Sufferers.”

As we embrace the beauty of autumn, let’s also embrace the opportunity to nurture our emotional health. Here’s to a season filled with warmth, healing and all the joys that fall brings.

With warmth and anticipation,

Shae