I’ve been reflecting on the intensity of the last few weeks here in North Texas. The relentless heat, with temperatures soaring above 100 for almost a month, kept many of us hunkered down. Yet as we step into September, there’s a palpable shift in the air—a sense of anticipation that comes with the promise of cooler days and the return of some of our favorite fall traditions.

For many of us, the State Fair of Texas, which kicks off at the end of this month, is the definitive harbinger of autumn. It has a magical way of ushering in the season, bringing with it the crispness and energy that we’ve been yearning for. I look forward to it every year—not just for the food (though, yes, I’ll be indulging in a few fried delights), but for the sense of community. After weeks of staying indoors, the prospect of gathering outdoors with friends and family to enjoy the fair’s many attractions is truly a breath of fresh air.

This issue of Natural Awakenings is focused on emotional healing, a timely theme as we emerge from the cocoon of summer heat. The underlying thread of these articles is the importance of achieving life balance. When we do that, we often find that we no longer need healing, because we naturally exist in a state of ongoing health and resilience.

Several North Texas therapists have generously shared their insights on trauma healing, beginning with a more expansive, modern definition of what trauma is. As they explain, it’s not just the big, dramatic events that leave a mark, but also the smaller, cumulative experiences that can affect our emotional health. The perspectives offered here are both enlightening and empowering, providing practical tools for navigating life’s challenges.

September is also National Yoga Month, so we delve into the all-around healing benefits of the practice in our story, “The Yoga Cure.” Long celebrated for promoting mind-body-spirit balance, yoga as a healing art is both ancient and ever-relevant. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to the mat, it can be a cornerstone of your emotional and physical well-being.

I’m also excited to highlight the incredible work being done at North Texas’ Equest, a therapeutic horsemanship center that’s been making a profound impact on clients and volunteers alike. There’s something truly special about the connection between humans and horses, and Equest taps into that bond, creating a healing environment that benefits everyone involved. The sense of purpose that volunteers experience through their work there is a testament to the power of giving back—another form of achieving balance.

As we move into this new season, let’s embrace opportunities to reconnect with ourselves and our community. Whether we’re attending events like the State Fair, engaging in a yoga practice or exploring new ways to heal emotionally, there are countless ways to restore balance and cultivate well-being. Let’s also carry forward the lessons of summer—especially the value of being present and slowing down. After all, when we achieve balance, we’ll find that there’s no need for healing, only the ongoing journey of living well.

Blessings,