From the Editor
Summer is here for most of the northern hemisphere, and warm weather and long, sun–filled days always seem to throw the brakes on Old Father Time. For most of us, the same responsibilities must be met, and the demands on our time have not changed. Yet there seems to be a few extra minutes to enjoy a cool drink on the porch or to notice the smell of the neighborhood flowers. Is it simply the extra hour of sunlight? Or is it something more personal and complex like our inner child reliving a memory of summer vacation? I suppose the answer lies in our individual compositions and our views on life.
For me it is a well–balanced combination of the two positions. My rational self knows an extra hour of sunlight is invigorating, making it easier to run an extra errand or just “go” a little longer because the days literally are longer. But my innermost self knows the real truth — it is that inner child demanding that I slow down just enough to remember what matters most to me, demanding that I relax and let go — of everything — a little, and demanding that I have some fun! Fortunately, I have a “can–do” attitude, so these demands are child’s play — especially that last one!
Even the work days seem to have a little more sunshine injected into them. This phenomenon seems to begin at some point during the annual natural health conference, when the staff finds a moment to look around and see students, graduates, and presenters enjoying the experience and enjoying one another’s company. We can all exhale and relax for a moment once we realize that the year of planning was worth it.
The conference was a tremendous success this year and a lot of fun. It is always fantastic to meet for the first time the students and graduates with whom we have shared contact over the years. Then seeing them a second, or for some folks a fifth, year in a row feels more like seeing a family member at the annual family reunion than a student/staff relationship. I want to know about Jo Ann’s miracle son and Tina’s musical protégé. I cannot wait to hear from my new friend George about his plans for a second globe–spanning trip to Bhutan. Will Marjorie get on Oprah’s show? Next year’s conference/family gathering will reveal all, and although it is 10 months away, I am already looking forward to it.
Inside this issue of Holistic Times, you will find the regular columns, conference coverage, educational travel updates, an interview–article with Christine Page, M.D., and an article about the nation of Bhutan’s National Institute of Traditional Medicine Services.
This summer, I encourage you to listen to your inner child and treat him or her to a little summer relaxation and fun. After all, fun — in the right amount — is healthy!
Tara N. Brown,
Editor
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