September is a Month of Transition
By Susan Hunt-Bradford
I always look forward to September. It’s a month of transition from the heat of summer to the cooler days of fall. I know September can still be warm, but at least the temperature is heading in the right direction! September is also my birthday month, and even though I’ve had more birthdays than I think I did, it still signals to me a new year with new hope.
Maybe that’s one of the reasons I like September so much. It feels like a natural time to pause and think about where we are and where we’re going. January gets all the attention when it comes to resolutions and new beginnings, but I’ve always thought September deserves some of that recognition. The routines of summer begin to change, the days get shorter, and there is a feeling that we are moving into a new season—both literally and figuratively.
Starting this month, I wanted to challenge myself to try some new things, so I included an article in this issue about 30 healthy habits—one for each day of the month. I’ve invited you to join me. If you do, let me know which habits you already practice, which ones you tried and which ones you think you’ll continue. I’m hoping that instead of trying to change everything at once, we can each find a few small things that make our lives a little healthier and happier.
September is also a wonderful month to get out and enjoy our community. There are a lot of great events throughout St. Louis and the surrounding areas, including Southern Illinois. This issue of The Healthy Planet showcases some of the events happening throughout the month, so take a look and find something that interests you.
September is also a great month for farmers markets. If you haven’t visited one lately, Google “St. Louis area farmers markets” and you won’t be disappointed by the variety or the number of communities that host them. There is something special about buying fresh food from local growers and spending a little time outside while you’re doing it.
As I celebrate another birthday and welcome another September, I’m trying to remind myself that we don’t have to wait for January to make a change.
Every season can be a fresh start.
Maybe September can be yours.
Happy September!