The Magic of Gourmet Salts: From Fleur de Sel to Himalayan Pink

Explore the world of gourmet salts—from fleur de sel to Himalayan pink—in this Natural Awakenings Chicago feature. Learn how specialty salts enhance flavor, offer mineral benefits and transform everyday dishes. Discover expert tips, regional varieties and creative ways to add depth and richness to winter cooking. Read More »

Katie Kritikos on Secrets to a Joyful and Authentic Life

Discover Chicago author and lecturer Katie Kritikos’ insights on joyful living, authenticity and simple daily rituals. In this Natural Awakenings Chicago interview, she shares practical ways to reduce stress, embrace self-acceptance and cultivate true joy amid modern pressures, offering inspiration for a more grounded, intentional life. Read More »

Letter from the Publisher

Peggy reflects on joy in everyday moments and invites readers to explore local stories, events and resources in this December issue. Read More »

Connecting Community With Yogic Tradition: Kula Kamala Ashram Offers Universal Teachings and Restorative Practices

Kula Kamala Ashram in Berks County, PA shares universal teachings and restorative practices through yoga, meditation and mindful community programs for all levels. Read More »

December 2025: Embrace Joy

Explore our Embrace Joy issue with winter wellness, local events, nature inspiration, gift ideas and Chicago area practitioners who help make the season lighter. Read More »

Cultivating Joy: How Movement, Gratitude and Connection Transform Our Lives

Joy emerges from movement, connection and gratitude—offering resilience amid hardship and redefining well-being as a fully embodied, relational experience. Read More »

Flavor-Infused Salt

Custom blends of herbs, citrus zest and sea salt elevate everything from roasted veggies to brownies, adding gourmet flair and mineral-rich flavor to everyday dishes. Read More »

Pomegranate Pickled Fish

Garam masala, dried fruit, and pomegranate create a sweet-spiced glaze for cold yellowtail, topped with lime mayo for an unforgettable holiday centerpiece or appetizer. Read More »

Hearty Vegetable Frittata

This savory frittata layers caramelized onions, vibrant squash, and feta with a hint of jalapeño heat, offering a cozy, seasonal dish perfect for brunch or weeknight meals. Read More »

December’s Duality: Embracing Joy and Melancholy

December’s contrast of joy and melancholy invites self-reflection, reminding us to honor both celebration and grief as part of the human experience. Read More »

The Joy of Local Holiday Shopping: Making the Most of the Human Touch

Local holiday shopping fosters joy, reduces emissions and keeps more money in hometown economies through meaningful, sensory-rich community connections. Read More »

Cross Training for Holistic Health: Advantages of a Well-Rounded Exercise Routine

Cross Training for Holistic Health Blending cardio and strength, cross training builds resilience, boosts mood and supports holistic wellness for all fitness levels and life stages. Read More »

The Heart Work of Kin-Keeping: Transforming Family Responsibilities Into a Shared Experience

Often unseen, kin-keeping—managing family traditions and ties—is essential yet unevenly shared work that can be reimagined through openness and collaboration. Read More »

Unwrapping the Past: Helping Kids Connect With Their Family Heritage

Holiday storytelling, recipes and crafts help kids build identity and resilience by connecting playfully and meaningfully with evolving family traditions. Read More »

Boosting Canine Health: Holistic Immune-System Strategies

A whole-food diet, medicinal mushrooms and emotional balance form the foundation of holistic immune health for dogs, supporting longevity and vitality. Read More »

Kissing Bug Disease Spreads Across 32 States

The CDC declares Chagas disease endemic in the U.S., as kissing bugs spread across 32 states, raising public health concerns for people and pets alike. Read More »

Understanding How Magic Mushrooms Affect the Brain

New brain scans reveal how psilocybin alters perception by disrupting neural pathways tied to self-awareness, offering insights into its long-lasting therapeutic effects. Read More »

Ultra-Processed Foods Undermine the Healthiest Diets

A major study finds even plant-based diets can be ultra-processed, challenging assumptions about health and sustainability in meat-free eating patterns. Read More »

Building Emotional Resilience in Cancer Survivors

Mindfulness and tai chi improve mood, energy and vitality for cancer survivors, offering evidence-based support for emotional healing alongside medical care. Read More »

Ayurveda Detox for Multiple Sclerosis Relief

An observational study links Panchakarma detox therapies to improved mobility and reduced medication use in women with MS, highlighting Ayurveda’s integrative potential. Read More »