Hello 2023!

There’s a certain shimmer to “2023,” just saying the year out loud makes me feel happy and light.

Those who know me know I am an optimist at heart, and as such I am always excited when January rolls around: satiated and thankful for the last couple of months spent steeped in family and celebration and eager to take on the new year and all that lies ahead. And while I know there will always be testing moments, I turn to the one-and-only Oprah Winfrey, a treasured source of inspiration (and one of my all-time favorites), who sagely said, “Challenges are gifts that force us to search for a new center of gravity. Don’t fight them. Just find a new way to stand.”

That is what our January Health & Fitness Issue is all about: basking in the enthusiasm of a new beginning while providing tools and tips on how to find a new way to stand. Which brings me to our cover story, “Badass And Beautiful” (page 68) — featuring the phenomenal, stunning and uber talented Andie MacDowell. I can’t tell you how honored I feel to have her gracing this important issue. Not only does she share her evolution, both professionally and personally, but she offers a candid (and much-needed) discussion on the stigma of mental health issues in our country, an issue with a very personal connection for her. We are looking forward to hearing her speak Feb. 15 at the Ruth & Norman Rales JFS Reflections of Hope luncheon at Boca West Country Club.

We move on to New York Times best-selling author James Nestor, who explains the profound impact proper breathing can have on our emotional and physical health in “Take A Breath” (page 74). I was fascinated with what I learned in this story, most notably how overlooked the act of breathing is and how most of us have been doing it wrong! The good news is, it is easily correctable and can be a true game changer when done right. Nestor will be speaking locally at the National Jewish Health New Directions Luncheon on March 3.

Have you ever sworn you saw someone that looked just like your sister while shopping in the supermarket? Or spotted your best friend’s lookalike one day at the beach? Most of us have had this experience on some level, which is why you’ll want to read “Double Take” (page 80) where we explore the fascinating correlation between doppelgängers (people who look alike but are not related) and DNA.

We end on a lighter note for those that promised to up their exercise regimen at the start of the New Year and haven’t found the inspiration to resume tennis or basketball. Perhaps you’d be interested in a game of underwater hockey or, say, wife carrying (yes, it’s a sport!). Our story “Peculiar Plays” (page 86) highlights lesser-known sports high on the wacky scale.

I’m thrilled to share this gorgeous and informative issue and am so excited to dive into 2023 with all of you. May this year bring continued good health, prosperity, love and friendship, and of course, plenty of good laughs!

Best,

Linda L. Behmoiras

linda@bocaratonobserver.com