In reading, “Customized Nutrition, Meeting Individual Needs,” by integrative and functional dietitian Alora Frederick, I was reminded of a particularly challenging time on this path. 

It was about five years into my journey as the publisher of the Natural Awakenings Greater Boston edition. Feeling uneasy about what, at times, felt like conflicting information passing through the magazine and seemingly every other publication or study ever published, I sought guidance from a wise someone whom I looked up to for deeper insights and understanding.

I was swiftly reminded of those helpful discernments I received by something Frederick refers to early in her article; that what may be ideal for one person is not necessarily ideal for another. With over 8 billion people on this planet, how could any one solution ever work for everyone?

It’s simply not practical. 

That’s one of my favorite things about our work now—the realization that we are all on our own journey with different wants, needs and desires. Our role at Natural Awakenings is to open pathways and create space for dialogues to occur that may lead to meaningful relationships between wellness providers offering specialized attention and those who seek the solutions they offer.

The healing process is almost never a direct line, especially when on a more natural route to optimal health. It’s often an uncertain and sometimes pricker-filled path that requires faith, diligence and an abundance of patience. Armed with those tools, the right practitioner and solution may be closer than we thought possible. The process is reflective of the adage, “if at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” What else is there to do?

As always, our wish is that you find something within these pages that helps you on your journey. Have a safe and happy holiday season!

Peace, 

Maisie Raftery