As we hunker down in the record-breaking August heat and try to enjoy the last lazy, hazy days of summer, we can look forward to what's become a kind of second New Year in U.S. culture. Back-to-school time brings excitement, anticipation and the opportunity for growth and learning—not just for students and teachers returning to classrooms, but for everyone. This is a time to embark on new learning journeys, as returning to school has evolved beyond the traditional institutions.

We've come to recognize that education isn't confined to a particular age or setting; it's a lifelong pursuit. It enriches our minds, broadens our horizons and cultivates a more sustainable, enlightened society. Even if we haven't had kids in the house in years, we're all still wired for constant learning. It's baked into our society, like New Year’s Eve, signifying a fresh start and a chance to set new goals, pursue new interests, challenge ourselves and acquire new skills that will shape our future.

The makers of this Natural Awakenings Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex magazine have always been advocates of sustainable living and holistic well-being. We know that education is a  powerful tool to shape individuals and communities into greener, healthier versions of themselves. That is why this issue is dedicated to the different ways of learning that can be seamlessly woven into our everyday lives.

One of the foundations of lifelong learning is the idea that knowledge knows no bounds and can be acquired from myriad sources. In these pages, you will find inspiring stories of individuals that have pursued unconventional learning paths through sports, hands-on experiences or interactions with diverse communities. From local artisans preserving traditional crafts to innovative entrepreneurs implementing sustainable practices, we celebrate those that have embraced continuous education to foster positive change in our region.

We have always been committed to highlighting sustainable initiatives and practices that empower our readers to make conscious choices for their own health and well-being and for the planet. In "Lifelong Learning: Benefits of Being the Forever Student," Linda Sechrist explores the eye-opening personal, professional, mental and emotional gains that come with continuing to feed our intellectual hunger. In other articles, we delve into school and community initiatives to create green campuses, develop ecofriendly curricula and provide immersive nature experiences for people of all ages.

We also recognize that the pursuit of knowledge is not limited to formal education, but extends to the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit. So we also share expert insights on healing nature, eating around food sensitivities and integrating well-being into our daily routines. We firmly believe that when we prioritize self-awareness and personal growth, the positive impact extends far beyond us to those around us.

As North Texas continues to evolve into a vibrant hub of innovation, sustainability and healthy living, we hope you will continue to find inspiration in our stories of individuals, practitioners and organizations paving the way for a better tomorrow. Through this and every issue, we hope to empower a community that values learning in all its forms and supports the growth of each member.

Fall is not just a season of new beginnings for students, but a reminder for us all to embrace lifelong learning as an integral part of our existence. Let's celebrate the joy of gaining knowledge, sharing wisdom and collectively building a greener, healthier, more sustainable world.

Thank you for being a part of our journey at Natural Awakenings. We are glad to be a trusted source of inspiration, information and ideas that empower you to live your healthiest life on a healthy planet.

Blessings