Autumn is a time for reflection and appreciation as the world around us transforms into vibrant colors and settles into a slower rhythm. This season invites us to pause, to savor the beauty of change, and to embrace the cycles of renewal and rest. It’s a time to nurture both body and spirit, share moments with loved ones, and appreciate the abundance we have.

As Thanksgiving approaches, we express gratitude for the shared meals that connect us to one another and to the earth. Our cover story, “Pumpkins, Gourds, & Squash: Beyond the Décor,” reveals how these fall favorites are more than just colorful ornaments on the table. Rich in nutrients, they fuel the body and enhance our fall meals, offering both beauty and sustenance.

We also explore “Harmony with Hormonal Balance” and “Nourishing New Moms with Traditional Foods”—two articles that focus on rejuvenating the body and supporting recovery. Achieving hormonal balance boosts energy, stabilizes moods, and strengthens health, while traditional postpartum foods help mothers heal and regain strength, enabling them to nourish their babies.

Our spotlight article features Saffron Road® and their delicious halal-certified products. They present their unique twist on a holiday classic, Tikka Masala-Spiced Roasted Turkey. We also include other festive recipes to complement your Thanksgiving table.

In “Low-Impact for a Lifetime,” we dive into gentle exercises that revive the body, especially for those recovering from injury or age-related changes. We also highlight “The Role of Public Policy in Expanding Halal Food Access in Public Institutions,” which looks at efforts to ensure halal meals are available in schools, hospitals, and prisons, accommodating more people in finding nourishment that supports their needs and beliefs.

Lastly, we explore IFANCA’s partnership with Zaytuna College in “ZCELL: Reviving Our Tradition of Ethical Living & Learning.” This program promotes ethical living by encouraging sustainable practices, teaching students how to grow their own food, and fostering a deep connection with the earth. Just as we nourish ourselves with the food we grow, Islam teaches us to care for the land so it can continue to provide for us.

As we embrace the seasonal changes of life, whether it’s nourishing a new mother, harvesting food to sustain our families, or ensuring access to halal meals for all, let us give thanks for God’s blessings. May we appreciate the abundance that sustains us and the connections that unite us, especially as we gather for Thanksgiving.

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Sincerely,
Zehra Jafri, Editor