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. Ronica O’Hara details the growing body of less invasive and less toxic approaches to dental care on page 36. 

I still remember the disapproving look on a dentist’s face 25 years ago when I told him I didn’t want any mercury used in my children’s fillings. Luckily, these days it’s easier to find a mercury-free dentist and better yet, a biological dentist who understands that what happens in our mouths has a significant effect on our overall health. 

In keeping with this inside-out, whole-body approach, 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” on page 34. Thus, chiropractors can offer patients relief for a host of conditions, from asthma and digestion to headaches and temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ)—in addition to the relief from back and neck discomfort that we routinely seek from them. I attribute a lot my pain-free flexibility, allowing me to keep up with the younger yogis in my classes, to regular chiropractic care over the years.

Speaking of yoga—what fun we had creating our Goat Yoga article on page 48. I thought someone was kidding (no pun intended) the first time I heard about Goat Yoga, until I discovered why the combination of being on a farm interacting with goats offers benefits beyond yoga. Check out two local farms that open their barnyards each week for these delightful sessions.

Fun and community connection are what the drumming circles sprinkled throughout Lee and Collier counties are all about. I discovered years ago that there was no need to be concerned about knowing anything about drumming or even having one to show up for a drumming circle. The infectious rhythm of the drummers will lead you to something to beat on, jingle or move your body to. I love the instant camaraderie that happens as the beat of the drums sync heartbeats together. Grab a friend and just show up at one of the regular drumming gatherings on page 32.

When Jenny Odell’s new book How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy arrived at our office I was immediately drawn to it. As someone who prides herself on being as productive as possible most the time, I was intrigued by her message that to be more productive, we need to regularly turn our attention away from the continuous pull of 24/7 availability and manipulation by algorithms. It is more than unplugging; it is redirecting our attention toward connecting with nature and people. Find helpful tips on page 46.

As the hint of cooler breezes start to be felt through SW Florida, take advantage of our less congested roadways, establishments and health practitioners schedules before the busy season is back in swing. As always, Natural Awakenings is here to guide you in all the right directions for your health and well-being. 

Many Blessings, 

Sharon