It’s a new year (2025 — gasp!), and with it comes a list of hopes and aspirations. Whether you’ve committed to getting fit, reconnecting with loved ones or carving out more time for self-care, we all have goals to strive for this year. Of course, tackling a long list can feel daunting, especially when those pursuits push us out of our comfort zones. That’s why I’m taking inspiration from the simple yet wise words of history-making tennis legend Arthur Ashe: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” By approaching our goals — whether personal or professional — with a realistic and thoughtful mindset, success feels far more achievable.
Our January Health + Fitness Issue reflects this very ethos. It kicks off with our inspiring cover star Brooke Burke in our feature story “Body Blueprint” (page 78), who shares her journey to wellness. Step by step, she has not only built a healthy lifestyle for herself but has also become a beacon of motivation for countless others.
By now, most of us have experienced COVID-19 firsthand, perhaps more than once, and largely view the pandemic as a chapter in the past. But what about those who are still navigating its lingering effects? Our story, “Living With Long Covid” (page 84), sheds light on the often-overlooked struggles of Americans coping with the ongoing condition.
Health is about more than just the physical — it encompasses our mental well-being, too. Mental health remains a critical conversation. In “Making It Work” (page 90), former “Project Runway” star Tim Gunn speaks candidly about his battle with depression. By sharing his story, he hopes to help dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage others to seek support.
Just as mental resilience is vital, physical strength and drive can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. The human body is truly exceptional, and when paired with discipline and determination, incredible feats happen. We celebrate the achievements of record-breaking athletes in “A Cut Above The Rest” (page 96). Whether it’s gymnastics, swimming or track, their perseverance inspires us all to push boundaries and aim higher.
As we step into 2025, let’s remind ourselves that progress doesn’t require perfection. Small, consistent efforts lead to meaningful change. Here’s to reaching your dreams, one step at a time. Most importantly, best wishes for a happy, healthy and peaceful 2025!
To life,
Linda L. Behmoiras
linda@bocaratonobserver.com