October’s issue brings readers an abundance of health news that underscores the importance of paying attention to the little things—like teeth and gums. Our feature, “Mouth Matters: A Holistic Approach to Oral Health,” delves into the mounting evidence that this “doorway to the body” can usher in heart issues, inflammatory response and even Alzheimer’s if not well maintained. Writer Ronica O’Hara details the growing body of less invasive and less toxic approaches to dental care.

In keeping with this inside-out, whole-body approach, writer Marlaina Donato offers insights into how one region of the body might affect a seemingly unrelated area in “Spinal Solutions: Chiropractic Care Yields Unexpected Results.” Thus, chiropractors can offer patients relief for a host of conditions, from asthma and digestion to headaches and temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ).

Meantime, educators all over the world are starting to focus on the mind-body connection with curriculum aimed at bringing mindfulness to the classroom. Studies show the result is calmer, happier, more focused kids. Read all about it in “Mindfulness in the Classroom: Meditative Training Helps Kids Thrive.”

Food writer April Thompson brings her usual spice and flair to our Conscious Eating department with a primer on “Slow Food”, a movement that’s gaining momentum as it satisfies foodies’ hunger for a deeper appreciation and understanding of their meal’s origins, from farm to fork.

Don’t forget that October is national Shelter Pet month and there are thousands of loving, healthy cats and dogs waiting to bring joy, companionship and yes, wellness, into your home. Julie Peterson presents solid research on the many benefits of the human-animal bond—and why pets adopted from shelters can be the most devoted of all.

That’s just a taste of what you’ll find in this month’s issue of Natural Awakenings.

To conscious living,

Pamela Gallina, Publisher