December 2025 Natural Awakenings Fairfield & Southern Litchfield Counties

In This Issue: The Sacred Solstice; the 17th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Workshop; Restoring Joy; The Neuroscience of Joy; Cultivating Joy; The Healing Power of Silence; The Joy of Local Holiday Shopping; Boosting Canine Health; The Magic of Gourmet Salts; Plus Much More...

Cultivating Joy: How Movement, Gratitude and Connection Transform Our Lives

Joy emerges from movement, connection and gratitude—offering resilience amid hardship and redefining well-being as a fully embodied, relational experience. Read More »

Katie Kritikos on Secrets to a Joyful and Authentic Life

Lawyer and blogger Katie Kritikos shares how authenticity, rituals and embracing imperfection help her cultivate joy amid motherhood, advocacy and life transitions. Read More »

The Magic of Gourmet Salts: From Fleur de Sel to Himalayan Pink

Gourmet salts like fleur de sel and Himalayan pink enhance flavor, reduce sodium and add trace minerals, transforming meals into sensory celebrations. Read More »

Flavor-Infused Salt

Custom blends of herbs, citrus zest and sea salt elevate everything from roasted veggies to brownies, adding gourmet flair and mineral-rich flavor to everyday dishes. Read More »

Pomegranate Pickled Fish

Garam masala, dried fruit, and pomegranate create a sweet-spiced glaze for cold yellowtail, topped with lime mayo for an unforgettable holiday centerpiece or appetizer. Read More »

Hearty Vegetable Frittata

This savory frittata layers caramelized onions, vibrant squash, and feta with a hint of jalapeño heat, offering a cozy, seasonal dish perfect for brunch or weeknight meals. Read More »

December’s Duality: Embracing Joy and Melancholy

December’s contrast of joy and melancholy invites self-reflection, reminding us to honor both celebration and grief as part of the human experience. Read More »

The Joy of Local Holiday Shopping: Making the Most of the Human Touch

Local holiday shopping fosters joy, reduces emissions and keeps more money in hometown economies through meaningful, sensory-rich community connections. Read More »

Cross Training for Holistic Health: Advantages of a Well-Rounded Exercise Routine

Cross Training for Holistic Health Blending cardio and strength, cross training builds resilience, boosts mood and supports holistic wellness for all fitness levels and life stages. Read More »

The Heart Work of Kin-Keeping: Transforming Family Responsibilities Into a Shared Experience

Often unseen, kin-keeping—managing family traditions and ties—is essential yet unevenly shared work that can be reimagined through openness and collaboration. Read More »

Unwrapping the Past: Helping Kids Connect With Their Family Heritage

Holiday storytelling, recipes and crafts help kids build identity and resilience by connecting playfully and meaningfully with evolving family traditions. Read More »

Boosting Canine Health: Holistic Immune-System Strategies

A whole-food diet, medicinal mushrooms and emotional balance form the foundation of holistic immune health for dogs, supporting longevity and vitality. Read More »

A New Era for Ocean Conservation Begins

The High Seas Treaty becomes international law in 2026, creating new protections for marine biodiversity across two-thirds of the world’s ocean areas. Read More »

Eco-Smart E-Waste

Proper e-waste disposal prevents toxic pollution, saves energy and reduces landfill waste—protecting ecosystems while promoting responsible consumption. Read More »