Recently I returned home from a trip to California that included a visit to Yosemite National Park, one of the most magically beautiful, healing places on Earth. Our family spent the days rafting, hiking and sightseeing, but the most special and memorable moments were in the early mornings.

As the sun began its daily climb, my son Yonatan and I were the first to rise for walks along the pristine Merced River flowing through Yosemite Valley’s wooded meadows. We dipped our feet in the cold mountain water, admired the towering cliffs and stood in openmouthed awe of the majestic Yosemite Falls, cascading 2,425 feet to the valley floor. We loved having this special occasion to quietly reconnect with each other and the stillness within. In nature’s enchanting serenity, the stresses of daily life simply melted away. We returned from our adventures relaxed, replenished and energized.

Developing this month’s issue on Family Health reminded me again of the power of that naturally healthy experience and the importance of regularly nurturing our spiritual and emotional health just as we nourish our bodily health with consistent exercise and whole foods. It is in caring for all aspects of ourselves that we prevent disease and position ourselves to live healthy and happy lives.

While I highly recommend a trip to Yosemite or any of our national parks, it’s not necessary to travel so far. Yesterday, while passing a lake on our way home from a birthday party in West Bend, Yonatan excitedly asked that we stop and walk out onto the pier; the bright new moon was rising in a clear twilight sky.

Joined by my friend Elizabeth, who was along for the adventure, we sat on the edge of the pier and dangled our feet in the warm water as we laughed, told stories and looked for shooting stars. It’s just that easy to bless our daily lives with gorgeous moments of love and joy.

Here’s to simple pleasures,

Gabriella Buchnik, Publisher