February 2012 Publisher Letter

Our main theme in this issue of Natural Awakenings is mental health and things that make your brain happy.

Wellness in the Workplace

TVH, a leading distributor of replacement parts and accessories for industrial vehicles, recently turned to health and wellness as a key employee benefit that adds to the bottom line.

The Evolution of the Brain and the Mind

Thousands of years ago, our ancestors faced a neurological opportunity similar to the one we face today; an opportunity that facilitated an evolutionary leap forward.

Supporting Mood with Brain-Boosting Supplements

Before going on an antidepressant regimen, you might consider giving your brain the nutrients it needs and see if an improvement in mood follows.

ENVIRONMENT.

Genes and Brain Development

One of the most dramatic discoveries in science over the past decade has been the understanding of how early experiences and environmental factors shape the expression of how, where and when genes function to build the brain.

How to Be a Happy Woman

It's hard to read Sara Avant Stover’s new book, The Way of the Happy Woman: Living the Best Year of Your Life, without wanting to curl up with a hot cup of green tea and a blanket and devour it in one sitting.

A Multi-Disciplined Approach to Back Care

"I like to merge functional medicine and nutrition principles to reduce inflammation and pain,” says Nancy Gomez, DC, a chiropractic physician and clinical director of the Chicago Back Center (CBC).

Winterize Your Hair with These Tips

Chicago winters are hard on hair. Fortunately, there are actions can you take to re-moisturize your hair and give it back the luster and shine it sports in the summertime.

Five Ways to Get Out of a Relationship Rut

Many factors contribute to the development of a “relationship rut,” and there are some things you can do about it to get yourself out of them.

Wabi Sabi Love

Embracing Imperfections in Relationships

Arielle Ford explores how we can shift our focus from what’s wrong to what’s right, cultivating a more loving connection through humor, listening, intimacy and generosity.

Improve Your Snooze

Sleep Aids versus Sleep Sappers

Can what we eat help us enjoy better sleep? Yes, says our panel of experts—see which foods, drinks and supplements they recommend to ease your zzz’s.

How a Brain Grows

Five Ways to Aid Development

Try these scientifically backed tips, designed for parents and caregivers, to positively influence a child’s developing brain.

How Can We All Get Along?

Resolving conflict benefits mind and body.

Whether we experience a minor disagreement at home, a workplace quarrel or a complicated political dispute, the process of working through a conflict can leave us feeling stronger and improve our relationships.

New Figurefacts App Monitors Lifestyle for Health

A new smartphone app is encouraging people to sit up and take control of their heart health.

An Introduction to the Work of Byron Katie

Certified Facilitator Paul Zavagno, MEd, will introduce the work of Byron Katie in a three-week class, at First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Deerfield.

Dalai Lama Speaks on Non-Violence at Loyola University

At the invitation of TIBETcenter, His Holiness The XIV Dalai Lama will appear in Chicago to speak on the topic of non-violence.

Women’s Herbal Conference Opens Registration

The first Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference, to be held from June 29 to July 1, at the Christine Center, in Willard, Wisconsin, is now open for registration.

Glenview Farmers’ Market

Glenview New Church will host an indoor farmers’ market from, sponsored by Faith in Place.

Chicago Flower & Garden Show

Landscape architects, garden builders, plant growers and artists will be in attendance at the Chicago Flower & Garden Show, held from March 10 through 18, at the Navy Pier.

Green Laundry List

Use Cold Water and Eco-Wise Detergents

Crucial Shareware

Open Hardware Addresses Environmental Problems

Low Tech

Silicon Valley School Eschews Computers

Blogging News

Teens See More Kindness than Cruelty Online

Natural Wonders

Virgin Forests are Irreplaceable

Big Book

Encyclopedia of Life Update

Vitamin C Helps Us See

Tip for Keeping Your Eyes Healthy

Regular Bedtimes Make Kids Smarter

The Key to Developmentally Excelling

Alcohol Impairs Recovery from Illness

Think Twice Before Downing a Hot Toddy

Potassium Protects the Heart

Take in More for Better Cardiac Health

Does Yawning Cool the Brain?

It Doesn't Just Mean You're Bored

Seaweed Loves the Heart

A Rich Source of Heart-Healthy Goodness