Letter from Publisher
Peggy Malecki
In times past, the cold and dark winter months were, for many, a period to rest and recharge before the tasks of a new spring. Before light was as basic as the flip of a switch and digital technology permeated our lives 24/7, seasonal darkness and cold slowed activities similarly to that of the rest of the natural world. Of course, our modern reality is a stark contrast to the past, and it can be challenging to embrace and savor the winter season, as life’s pace continues at the same speed year-round. Still, with a mindful eye, there are many ways that we can recharge and prepare for the coming year in the quiet of January and myriad opportunities to sow the seeds (literally and figuratively) for the coming months.
Although it’s officially winter, due to our mild Chicago autumn, the soil has not yet frozen, and some of us may still have a few bulbs remaining to finally plant in anticipation of spring blooms. January is also an ideal time to plan for the coming growing season, read through seed catalogs and websites, take a gardening course, check out a new book about pollinator plants and dream of the coming tomato season. If you’ve been looking to attract more butterflies and beneficial insects to your garden and also create a backyard habitat for birds, now is the time to get started. Many Midwest native plant seeds require a period of cold, moist rest, called stratification, to germinate reliably. This is a good time to order seeds and start the planting prep, imitating the seeds’ natural process by storing them in your fridge (many require a 60- to 90-day prep before planting) or stratifying outdoors in milk jugs or by other means. The process is a little more detailed than this; you’ll find information is plentiful on websites, YouTube and Facebook Midwest seed-starting groups.
January also marks the start of the 30th anniversary of Natural Awakenings (we’re in our 14th year publishing here at Natural Awakenings Chicago), and I’m proud to share this celebration with you. Since 1994, Natural Awakenings has helped educate, inform, empower and connect millions of readers across the country to the latest trends in holistic and integrative wellness, healthy eating, sustainability and conscious living. Whether you are looking for inspiration to build new habits, want to try a healthier version of your favorite recipes or eat more seasonally, are curious about a new wellness modality, desire to become more connected to our natural world or are seeking a community of like-minded people and thought leaders, our magazine may be your ideal resource.
As always in my letter, I encourage you to step outside each and every day. Watch the sun’s light slowly return and the days lengthen as we move through the month. Check the weather, bundle up and head out for a walk or run on a nearby trail. Watch the skies for the occasional movements of sandhill cranes or a lone hawk riding the breezes. Listen for an owl on a cold winter’s night or revel in the warmth of a sunny day in an El Niño winter. Ponder the wonder of snowflakes and watch for the full moon rise later this month.
On behalf of our team at Natural Awakenings, we wish you a bright, beautiful, healthy and inspired 2024.
Happy New Year!
