Letter from Publisher
Peggy Malecki
Happy New Year!
It’s sunny as I write you
this late December on the Winter Solstice, the shortest day and longest night
of the year. The transition to a new year is a time of reflection and
stillness, as well as an opportunity for rejuvenation and fresh approaches. And
as the days get longer and head toward a post-5 p.m. sunset, it’s time to
celebrate our successes of the past year while gently easing into new or
renewed goals and aspirations.
Although the Chicago area set
a new record in 2021 for the latest measurable snowfall
(still none as of the solstice), it’s a la niña
winter, and the snow and frigid temperatures will arrive eventually. It’s
winter in the Midwest, after all. I hope you’ll join me in again setting a goal
for this new year to find ways each day to enjoy the season and appreciate the
unique beauty of a winter prairie, woodland, hiking trail, lakefront, backyard
or urban landscape, with or without snow.
The Norwegian term friluftsliv
translates roughly to “open air living” and
celebrating the outdoor world, no matter what the weather forecast
predicts. The term was created in 1859 by the writer Henrik Ibsen, and it
encompasses ways we can embrace the healing power of being in nature. Rather
than practicing a specific outdoor activity done quickly outside of the context of our daily life (such as a ski trip), it is a
lifestyle that creates a different perspective and mindset of how we can
consciously choose to interact daily with the natural environment around us.
As you’ll find in this
month’s news briefs and calendar, opportunities abound for outdoor activities
at our local forest preserves, parks, nature centers and natural areas. From
eagle watching later in the month to cross-country skiing and evening-lit
trails through the woods, there are many ways we can continue to connect and
rejuvenate our spirits with nature this winter. And writer Sheryl DeVore
explores some of our areas nature museums that offer indoor learning and family
activities this winter.
In our January issue of Natural
Awakenings Chicago magazine, we’re taking a closer look at a some of the
newest trends in health and wellness for people and pets, and helping you sort
through the many healthcare and fitness options available. We’ll be continuing
to examine new trends throughout the coming year and welcome your insights,
comments and suggestions for topics you’d like to learn more about this year
(please email [email protected]).
The holidays may be over, but
there are a few ways we can all continue to help our neighbors as we get back
to everyday activities in these unique times. Please continue to regularly
support local businesses, services, restaurants and the like as best you are
able. Continue to help those in need in our communities, no matter the weather
or season. Support local nonprofits, environmental groups and others with which
you share a common vision. Share a smile, kind word or laugh every day. Be
mindful and caring of all the lives we share the Earth with. And start planning
for spring!
I leave you this month with
my usual request to step outside your door every day and revel in the natural
world that surrounds us. Listen for crackling ice or the sound of gently
falling snow. Observe the wonders of a pastel January sunset. Look for squirrel
tracks. Notice the unique patterns of frost on a kitchen window and mindfully
observe something new each day of the new year.
From all of us here at Natural
Awakenings Chicago,
we wish you a happy, healthy, safe and
peaceful New Year!