This summer is special for me as it marks a full year of being the publisher of Natural Awakenings Richmond. What an amazing time I have had being involved in this meaningful publication. I have met many incredible people and love being an active part of Richmond’s natural health and wellness community. I am continuously inspired by the wonderful business owners and practitioners who work tirelessly to bring healthier resources and options to their clients and customers. Good things are happening in RVA and I am excited to be a part of it! Thank you for your continued support of this magazine.

With summer in full swing, I hope you have had a chance to laze in the sun, swing in a hammock or stroll down a favorite city street taking in the multitude of sights and sounds around you. May you find time to indulge in an escape, whether it be a vacation, a stay-cation or some quiet meditation. I remember as a kid, summer was all about freedom and fun, doing nothing and loving it! It’s not always possible to be as footloose and fancy free as an adult, but we owe it to ourselves to find ways to keep our lives joyful and carefree, even in little ways and quiet moments.  

Whether it be through the enjoyment of a cool, crisp organic salad on a hot summer day, memorable moments with family and friends, an adventuresome camping trip, a fun day at the beach or a relaxing massage, I hope you find ways to make your summer special. Use this issue as inspiration for your summer activities and fresh-food options or enjoy it for some relaxing summer reading. Whatever you choose, try to carve out some lazy days, kick back with a cold summer smoothie and, just for now…

Just for Now

Just for Now, without asking how, let yourself sink into stillness.

Just for now, lay down the weight you so patiently bear upon your shoulders.
Feel the Earth receive you, and the infinite expanse of the sky grow even wider
as your awareness reaches up to meet it.

Just for now, allow a wave of breath to enliven your experience.
Breathe out whatever blocks you from the truth.

Just for now, be boundless, free, with awakened energy tingling
in your hands and feet.

Drink in the possibility of being who and what you really are –
so fully alive that the world looks different,
newly born and vibrant, just for now.

by Danna Faulds

Happy Reading,

Jessica Coffey, Publisher