September is National Yoga Month. This issue offers a special focus on Healing Music and Yoga. In our area, a vital community of local practitioners, teachers and centers are committed to  accessing and spreading well-being through the practice of yoga. Turn to page 34 for a “Celebrate Yoga Month” featuring local teachers and centers.            Spreading awareness of the healthy benefits of yoga is attracting and uniting growing numbers of enthusiasts, seekers, and beyond. For example, an innovative international yoga program is creating jobs and building communities in Nairobi. (See “Training Africa’s Yoga Teachers”, page 38.) In “Music as Medicine”, page 28, natural health book author Kathleen Barnes examines many ways yoga’s soothing, energizing and healing effects can be enhanced through the sounds and music in our lives.
    Also, September 15 through October 15 is National Hispanic Heritage Month; a special time to reflect on and  appreciate Hispanic and Latino American contributions to our community. On September 18, the uniquely enjoyable ViVa Tampa Bay Hispanic Heritage Festival returns to Centennial Park in Historic Ybor City, Tampa (free admission). 
The rich diversity in our community is astounding.
    As always, open your mind and read on