June always feels like a month full of energy and movement along the Gulf Coast. School is out, summer activities are in full swing and many of us are spending more time outdoors, reconnecting with family, friends and the natural beauty surrounding us. It is also the perfect time to focus on the men in our lives and the importance of supporting their health, purpose and well-being.
The theme of this month’s issue is Men Built to Thrive, and it is dedicated to our Gulf Coast Men on a Mission—leaders, practitioners, educators and entrepreneurs creating a positive impact throughout our communities. What makes this issue especially meaningful to me is that so many of these men have personally touched my life in one way or another.
Wesley Carpenter of Merrill Lynch has helped keep my husband and me on track financially through the years, with professionalism, wisdom and kindness. Dr. Douglas Brown has been both a mentor and friend and was instrumental in introducing me to the Natural Awakenings Gulf Coastfranchise in 2021. My pastor and friend, Dr. Eric Hankins, continues to faithfully encourage me and our readers through his inspirational articles focused on spiritual health and hope. Dr. Daniel Bishop has helped keep me active and moving through physical therapy treatments for a recurring ankle injury. And Dr. Phillip Greer is my dentist, who always greets me with the same warm smile he helps create in others.
The remaining men featured in this issue have also become meaningful connections through our work in the natural health community. Each has taught me something valuable about healing, wellness and serving others with purpose and integrity. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to honor them in these pages.
Be sure to explore this month’s insightful articles, including “The Facts About Low Testosterone,” “Sleep Health for Men,” “The Resurgence of Rucking” and “Finding Meaning and Hope in Troubled Times.” We are also excited to feature not one but two Healthy Eats spotlights this month—Happy Olive and Graze Craze—highlighting the importance of knowing where to find fresh, healthy and naturally sourced local foods.
To our readers, I encourage you to take time to learn more about these extraordinary men and the work they are doing to improve the health and well-being of our Gulf Coast community.
To your health,
