Publisher's Letter

We've been treated to many beautiful sunsets this month as the brightness of cold and crisp yet gloriously sunny days fades into stunning purples and pinks, eventually giving way to the lingering pastels of a Midwest winter sky. While I don’t wish for the days to rush by any faster than they already seem to, I’m eagerly anticipating the return of post-5 p.m. sunsets and the lead-in to spring. As I write this month’s notes with a sunset in the distance outside my window, two cardinals are visiting the bird feeder, grabbing a few seeds before seeking their evening shelter.

February often seems to be represented by the color red—whether in the brilliant feathers of the cardinal, the bold hues of Valentine hearts and flowers or the many reminders of Heart Month. In contrast to the winter-brown of a male goldfinch, male cardinals keep their red color year-round (females maintain a muted pinkish-brown). And while winter bird songs are rare, the cardinal’s sharp “chip chip” calls begin to shift by mid-February as they establish spring territories. At t  his time each year, I await that first morning when I’ll hear a cardinal’s “birdie-birdie-birdie” song in the yard, announcing the gradual transition to spring.

It’s Heart Month, and this issue is devoted to ways of cultivating a happy heart. In our main feature, “The Thriving Heart: Integrative Approaches to Cardiology,” writer Carrie Jackson highlights some of the latest wellness strategies for heart health, including Dr. Jack Wolfson’s 100-year heart method. Along with diet, Wolfson emphasizes “thrival” lifestyle choices such as spending time outdoors in natural sunlight, enjoying activities we love, prioritizing high-quality sleep and nurturing a positive mindset. These practices can be simple yet profound ways to help foster a long life and a deeper sense of meaning and fulfillment.

As we nurture a healthy heart, February also invites us to embrace the great outdoors. This month is a wonderful time to explore winter birdwatching. In our Natural Chicago section, Sheryl DeVore shares tips on gull-watching along Chicago’s lakefront and nearby areas, where both common and rare winter-visiting species may appear. If you’re also seeking some indoor nature experiences, there are plenty of local seed swaps, gardening events and the Wild Things 2025 Conference to enjoy.

And of course, February wouldn’t be complete without chocolate. Marlaina Donato explores the latest research on this ancient treat’s wellness benefits and shares recipes that are both delicious and nourishing. Be sure to check out our Conscious Eating section for cozy, warming dishes like Navy Bean Tuscan Kale Soup by Mindy Pelz, DC, and Buttermilk Cornbread from Janie Maxwell, executive director of the Illinois Farmers Market Association.

As always, I encourage you to spend some time outside every day. It’s a great way to take a break, get a little heart-healthy exercise, shake off the winter blahs and reset your mood. Look for early signs of spring, listen for a cardinal, watch for gulls on a cold day, witness the full moon rise and reconnect with the vitality of the natural world around you.

Wishing you a happy and heart-filled February!