There’s something magical about the beginning of summer. The days stretch a little longer, the birds sing a little louder and everything just feels ... lighter. Maybe it’s the sunshine or the promise of a weekend down on the shore, rooftop evenings and lingering sunsets over the skyline. Whatever it is, this season always brings a sense of renewal—a chance to hit refresh, not just on our calendars, but on our health, mindset and habits. And of course, it wouldn’t be summer in Philly without soft pretzels at the park, baseball games and the occasional Rita’s run.

Our June issue is dedicated to men’s wellness—exploring it through a more expansive and holistic lens. In our feature story, “Expanding Our Healthspan: Holistic Strategies for Long-Term Well-Being,” Dr. Eric Plasker reminds us that “The United States has one of the worst healthspans in the world. We have the highest rate of chronic disease and spend too much time suffering and deteriorating.” As creator of The 100 Year Lifestyle, he offers a roadmap to not just living longer, but living with purpose, clarity and vitality.

We also dive into the evolving conversation around men’s emotional well-being in “The Conscious Man: Releasing Silent Stress and Embracing a New Model of Masculine Wellness.” For generations, men have been conditioned to equate strength with silence and vulnerability with weakness. But as rates of anxiety, depression and burnout rise, more men are rejecting those outdated ideals. They’re choosing to prioritize emotional awareness, mindfulness and a more balanced approach to health.

Also in this issue, “Benefits of Creatine Supplementation: Reasons to Add It to Your Regimen” looks at how this once bodybuilder-specific supplement is now gaining traction with biohackers and longevity experts. Once known primarily for enhancing muscle performance, creatine is now being studied as a possible tool to improve brain function, support energy metabolism and potentially delay or prevent age-related disease. It’s a simple addition that might support both physical and cognitive wellness.

And for parents raising boys in today’s digital world, “From ‘Bruh’ to Gentleman: Parenting in the Age of Slang and Screens” offers a humorous yet real look at what it means to guide the next generation through constant screen time, meme culture and ever-evolving slang. Hint: it involves patience, laughter and maybe a translator app.

Here’s to longer days, fresh starts and defining wellness on your own terms—whether that’s a run by the river, mindfulness in the park or simply listening when your body says rest.

Cheers to warmer days and well-lived moments,

Shae Marcus

Publisher, Natural Awakenings South Jersey and Philadelphia