Publisher Letter May 25

Spring is in full bloom—and so is bird migration season! Alongside fresh leaves and colorful flowers, May marks the peak of spring migration, as millions of birds pass through the Midwest on their way to northern nesting grounds. As I'm writing to you, Chicago’s beloved piping plovers are back at Montrose Beach, and backyard regulars like robins, wrens and finches are settling in for the summer. I’m looking forward to stepping outside early on a warm May morning and being immersed in the wonder of birdsong from seemingly every tree.

World Migratory Bird Day, also recognized as Illinois Bird Day, is May 10. This year’s theme—Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities—highlights ways urban development impacts birds and how we can help. Groups like the Chicago Ornithological Society and Forest Preserves of Cook County are hosting walks, talks and fun events for all ages. It’s the perfect time to get outside, enjoy the birdsong and take simple steps—like planting native plants or reducing pesticide use—to make our shared spaces more welcoming for our avian visitors.

May is Women’s Health Month, and this issue honors the strength, complexity and resilience of women’s wellness. In our feature article, “Women in Bloom: Balancing Hormones for Optimal Well-Being,” Carrie Jackson explores how hormones can influence everything from mood and energy to vitality and joy throughout a woman’s life. While stress, environmental toxins and life changes can throw women’s health off balance, Jackson highlights how intentional nutrition, lifestyle habits, self-care and expert support can help women stay in tune with their bodies and feel their best at every stage.

Scrolling through social media, it’s hard to miss the pervasive ads promising quick fixes for thinning hair—but how do we separate potential real solutions from the hype? In “Reversing Hair Loss in Women,” Marlaina Donato explores some natural, evidence-based approaches to a common issue that often goes unaddressed.

In keeping with our women’s wellness theme, this month’s Conscious Eating article, “Healthy Cravings: Snacking for Hormonal Harmony,” looks at how everyday food cravings can become mood-boosting, energy-sustaining habits. With tips like pairing protein with carbs, seed cycling and choosing fiber-rich foods, it's about, as menopause health coach Laura Peischl states in the article, learning to “choose nourishment over numbness.”

It’s an ideal month to explore a local natural area and soak in the vibrant sights and sounds of spring. In our Natural Chicago section, Sheryl DeVore continues her two-part series with “Wetlands Provide Habitat for Rare Plants and Animals,” showcasing the important work of the Wetlands Initiative and others restoring and protecting these rich, biodiverse ecosystems. And Kelsay Shaw shares simple, impactful ways to make our own yards inviting for birds in “A Guide to Planting for Our Feathered Friends.”