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Natural Awakenings Milwaukee Magazine

Letter from Publisher

With Wisconsin’s brisk autumn nights setting in, few things feel better than snuggling under a mound of soft covers for a good night’s sleep. But that good night’s sleep doesn’t always come easy. Most of us at one time or another have difficulty shutting off that internal chatter that keeps our brains whirling until the wee hours. Before we realize it, the dreaded alarm goes off, forcing us out of bed to face the day without the deep sleep our bodies require to physically and mentally function in today’s demanding world.

One of our feature articles for November, “Chasing ZZZZZs,” looks at how a lack of sleep affects our bodies and can cause lowered immunity and chronic inflammation, which in turn can lead to a host of health problems. The article also examines practical, natural and sometimes simple ways to combat insomnia and achieve deep, restful sleep, such as leaving devices out of the bedroom. The measures explored in the article can help us calm our brains before bedtime, resulting in deep sleep and a productive day.

Exercise has also been shown to contribute to a good night’s sleep. Julie Peterson explores the new world of fitness in “Click and Sweat: Virtual Workouts Change the Game.” Training via an app or online is all the rage now for seasoned gym rats and newbie exercisers that value the convenience and privacy of this growing phenomenon.

There’s a lot to be thankful for in our November issue, and April Thompson brings joy to the season’s table with her take on “Zenful Eating: Mindful Meals in Quiet Gratitude.” Three of the nation’s top Zen chefs share their wisdom about being grateful, present and peaceful at mealtime—just in time for Thanksgiving!

Wishing you a lovely autumn and a good night’s sleep,

Gabriella Buchnik, Publisher