My husband, Jim, has embraced YouTube this year. He accesses it from our smart TV and spends hours immersed in instruction on higher math concepts, black holes, and even retirement planning. “I just like learning new things on subjects I’ve always been interested in,” said Jim. “It keeps my mind sharp, satisfies my curiosity and keeps me entertained.”

In our feature article, Lifelong Learning: Benefits of Being the Forever Student [page 14], author Linda Sechrist shares that lifelong learners are generally curious, self-motivated and passionate individuals. Their continuing educational pursuits can lead to mental and emotional benefits, including healthier, more fulfilling lives. While math and black holes won’t be on the top of my interest list, I am excited about expanding my knowledge of my new e-biking and gardening hobbies.

I was drawn to Maria Rodale’s book, Love, Nature, Magic, due to my emerging interest in plants but also found meaningful life wisdom. In our Wisewords column with Maria Rodale: On Letting Nature Heal Itself [page 26], she shares that “if people respond to life with curiosity instead of fear, and love instead of control, we can evolve amazingly fast and have fun doing it.” I love new challenges that provide learning opportunities; I find this is when I am the most motivated and engaged.

This month kids are returning to school and families are returning to their routine. To ease the transition, this issue is jam-packed with inspiring articles including advice from local practitioners in Healing Tools for Children to Ease Anxiety [page 12]. Find tips to keep breakouts at bay in Acne Antidote: Topical and Dietary Roadmap for Healthy Skin [page 18]. Consider back-to-school tips for all ages in Childhood Food Allergies, Intolerances and Sensitivities [page 20]. And explore how to create a vibrant blended family in Stepparenting Success [page 24]. In our online exclusives at my-NA.com discover more great articles including Watching Fish Swim: The Joys and Benefits of Aquariums and Eco-Friendly U: Sustainability on the Rise at U.S. Colleges. I hope this issue helps unleash your natural curiosity to explore, learn and pursue your personal passions.

Here's to lifelong learning!

Kris Urquhart, Publisher