The new Chamber of Commerce slogan is true: “Big things happen here.” As we move into festival season, we have much to celebrate in the Metroplex. Communities are gathering in anticipation of the biggest, most fun and ultimate Texas show of them all, the venerable State Fair of Texas in Dallas’ Fair Park, from September 27 through October 30. Art fairs and exhibits also are kicking into high gear, plus hundreds of citizens are walking and running for a good cause—many of them listed in our Calendar of Events.

At the end of a long, hot summer that has discouraged movement, September presents an ideal opportunity to start up our engines anew. Let us get back to revving our bodies as our Creator has made them to function best, in a persistent state of healthy movement fueled by natural foods. Did you know that in Bible days it was common for folks to walk from city to city to work or visit—up to 20 miles a day? Most Baby Boomers have heard tales of grandparent walking many miles to school in their younger days. We too, can get in the habit of walking to places we go, even if it only means walking from the far end of the parking lot. Day in and day out, it adds up.

Fall is a perfect time to return to a favorite natural outdoor exercise routine, and then branch out to try something new to us. Why not take off on leisurely pedals along Dallas’ many wonderful bike trails? They are well-kept, interconnected and take you to and through peaceful and picturesque parts of the city. White Rock Lake, at the heart of the action, is dotted with perfect spots to park your bike and rest up while enjoying a healthy bite to eat. Kayaking around the lake and down the Trinity River offers more change-of-pace options. Grab a few friends or make it a family affair. One way or another, it feels good to build fitness into our everyday schedule.

Complementing spiritually healthy exercise with wise nutrition in this issue, we are pleased to share the insights of Betty Murray, a gluten-free health expert with the Living Well Dallas Wellness Center. We also invite you to the upcoming Work Life Balancing Act lunch seminar on September 20 at Cityplace, in Dallas’ Uptown, offering free mini wellness services to attendees. You’ll find more information in our news briefs.

Natural Awakenings Dallas Metroplex Edition magazine is here as your go-to resource, connecting you with authoritative information and local experts, plus healthful products and services from our loyal advertisers. It’s all meant to enhance your quality of life, helping you and yours to live longer, healthier and happier. We trust that you will find another perfect “Aha!” moment this month that you use to realize your best life ever.

Blessings always,

Bernice Butler, Publisher