Discovering Indiana Dunes: From Shifting Sands to Ancient Forests

Explore Indiana Dunes National Park and Indiana Dunes State Park, just outside Chicago, Illinois. Discover towering sand dunes, wetlands, prairies, forests, scenic hiking trails, and diverse wildlife shaped by ancient glaciers. Learn about the region’s unique ecology, outdoor adventures, conservation efforts, and must-see destinations along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. Read More »

Collective Sustenance at Prairie Food Co-op Community Grocery

Discover how Prairie Food Co-op Community Grocery in Lombard, Illinois is building a healthier local food system through community ownership, sustainable sourcing, and locally produced foods. Learn about its fresh seasonal offerings, bulk goods, educational events, and commitment to supporting local farmers, food security, and community connections throughout DuPage County. Read More »

Melons: A Sweet Taste of Summer at Illinois Farmers Markets

Discover the health benefits of fresh summer melons at Illinois farmers markets. Learn how to select ripe watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew, explore their nutritional value, and enjoy a refreshing watermelon salad recipe. Find tips for staying hydrated, supporting local growers, and making the most of seasonal produce in Illinois. Read More »

Celebrating Illinois Farmers Markets During National Farmers Market Week

Celebrate National Farmers Market Week in Illinois and discover how local farmers markets support small farms, healthy eating, and thriving communities. Learn about fresh seasonal produce, sustainable agriculture, Link Match benefits, and the economic impact of shopping local. Explore farmers markets across Chicago and Illinois while supporting local growers and businesses. Read More »

Rooted in Ravinia Returns With Evening Market and Music

Experience Rooted in Ravinia at Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, Illinois, on July 29. This unique evening event combines a vibrant farmers market, local vendors, fresh food, handcrafted goods, and live music from Railheart, Duke Tumatoe, and The Kody Norris Show, celebrating community, bluegrass, and local culture in Chicagoland. Read More »

What to Expect at Veggie Fest Chicago 2026

Discover what to expect at Veggie Fest Chicago 2026 in Lisle, Illinois. This free healthy living festival features vegetarian food, wellness experts, yoga, meditation, live music, cooking demonstrations, family activities, and over 100 exhibitors. Join 35,000 attendees for one of North America’s largest wellness and healthy lifestyle events. Read More »

Step Outside, Live Longer

Spending time outdoors may be one of the simplest ways to support better health and longevity. This Chicago-focused article explores how nature can reduce stress, improve sleep, boost cardiovascular health, and promote healthy aging. Discover easy ways to enjoy Chicago’s parks, trails, and green spaces for a healthier, more active lifestyle. Read More »

Letter from the Publisher

Celebrate the joys of July in Chicago and the Midwest with this inspiring editor’s message on summer abundance, outdoor wellness, local food, and community connection. Discover seasonal highlights, farmers markets, gardening, Indiana Dunes adventures, and simple ways to embrace nature, mindfulness, and the vibrant spirit of summer living. Read More »

A Mushroom With Every Meal: Yes, Reall

Learn how adding mushrooms to every meal can support nutrition, digestive health, and culinary creativity. This wellness article explores the benefits of shiitake, lion’s mane, oyster, maitake, and other mushrooms, plus includes a flavorful mushroom pâté recipe. Discover practical mushroom-inspired healthy eating tips from herbalist Linda Conroy in the Midwest. Read More »

Pickleball Prowess: Getting in Shape for the Court

Learn how to prepare your body for pickleball with strength training, warm-up routines, injury prevention tips, and recovery strategies. Featuring insights from Chicago and Illinois health professionals, this guide helps players improve balance, mobility, core strength, and endurance while reducing the risk of common pickleball injuries and staying active longer. Read More »

Rhythm and Renewal: The Transformative Power of Group Drumming

Group drumming blends rhythm, connection and self-expression, with benefits that support resilience, recovery and brain health. Read More »

Journeys That Change Us: A Conversation With Anthony Profeta

Meditation teacher Anthony Profeta explores how sacred travel, mindfulness and shared experiences can inspire lasting transformation. Read More »

Hearty Dinner Salad With Creamy Salsa Verde Dressing

Creamy salsa verde, avocado, blue cheese and quinoa transform this hearty salad into a satisfying summer meal. Read More »

Cold Honeydew-Blueberry Salad With Meyer Lemon Honey Drizzle

Chilled honeydew, juicy blueberries and Meyer lemon honey drizzle deliver a refreshing, naturally sweet treat for hot summer days. Read More »

Summer Bounty Garden Toss With Jalapeño-Lime Dressing

Crisp garden vegetables, heirloom tomatoes and fresh herbs meet a sweet-spicy jalapeño lime dressing bursting with summer flavor. Read More »

Black Walnut Vinaigrette

Toasted black walnuts, shallots and apple cider vinegar create a rich, nutty vinaigrette that elevates fresh summer vegetables. Read More »

Embracing Water’s Magic

From lakeside memories to simple daily rituals, water inspires gratitude, mindfulness and a deeper connection to nature. Read More »