Of course people want to grow. There’s an intrinsic desire within us to do that. But what makes us think that growing and expanding should be characterized by a number that defines us? To grow and expand in wisdom, in self-knowledge and in stillness, must we age chronologically as well? While it’s a predominant yes to the number, the actual result and how we age is—as it turns out—completely our decision.

Thanks in part to social media, every day there are examples of almost herculean agelessness. The 96-year-old Tao Prchon-Lynch is the world’s oldest yoga instructor; Ernestine Shepherd, now 77, was at 73 the world’s oldest body builder. What’s their secret and how do we tap into this somewhat recently identified well of agelessness?

Lucky for us living in Tucson, we literally have an oasis of holistic practitioners, energy healers, life and health coaches, natural, non-surgical and highly accredited surgical practitioners—all bringing their unique skills to help us stay young and vibrant. If Sedona has some type of corner on spiritual vortexes, then Tucson for sure has the corner on world-recognized practices and healing centers that naturally fuel our longevity.

In this issue, you’ll discover many secrets to agelessness. On page 26, Dr. Christiane Northrup, one of the country’s premier visionaries on women’s health, together with the article’s author, lay out a comprehensive plan to help us flourish physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Dr. Cousens, founder of The Tree of Life, speaks to a wrap-around experience using a holistic lifestyle that incorporates yoga, nature, spirituality and healthy eating, on page 32. In all cases, it’s about a holistic approach that targets all of who we are as conscious, future-oriented beings.

Natural Awakenings readers and Tucson residents don’t believe in aging! The practitioners, teachers and coaches who are featured in this issue through their advertising and stories, help to develop the power to control how we deal with stress and to be still, all of which can ultimately make us look and feel more youthful. The good fortune is even more apparent when you consider how much choice we have here in Tucson for keeping our appearance, physical vitality and our spiritual center aligned to look and feel our very best.

“The important thing is that it is never too late to start. We can make the transition back to a younger, stronger and happier self at any age,” reminds Dr. Cousens.

Never stop growing,

Barbara Peters, Marketing Director