If you are anything like me, the first few months of 2023 have already zoomed past in a flash—life in the fast lane baby! Our days are filled with family activities, work responsibilities, and community events that have already distracted me from the goals and healthy habits I started at the beginning of the year. Anytime I am feeling a little burn out or lacking motivation I know it is time to refuel and refocus my mental and physical health. While it is easier said than done, I know I am the best version of myself when I focus on my overall wellness.

In this special edition of Focus on Artesia, we are living for outdoor walks, therapy sessions, massages, and many other healthy (& local) trends that will help you take care of YOU. So, let us be your pit crew; pump the brakes and reflect on the theme: Health is Wealth. Of course, we are not talking about any new discovery here, but can we all take a minute to recognize the direct correlation between our health and overall happiness? Being able to sleep at night, to move without pain, and to enjoy delicious food with a good laugh is the definition of happiness for me.

This magazine is full of articles directly from locals to help you achieve optimal wellness from the inside out. We want our community to realize healthy living can be easy and fun (& free!). From exercise and diet to mental and emotional health, every wellness journey looks different. For me, self-care sometimes entails a visit to the infrared sauna at Artesia Wellness, a long walk outside with my dog, or consuming a tub of queso—don’t judge! Lucky for us, our amazing contributors have shared their knowledge and experience to help our readers grasp a variety of strategies to build and maintain healthy habits.

Just like the Spring cleaning we are doing in our homes and offices, assessing what needs to go and reorganizing what needs to stay is absolutely necessary in our personal lives. The food we consume, the words we read, the thoughts in our head, and the people we hang with all directly affect our personal health and happiness. As you clear out the clutter in your closet, consider the daily habits or things you may need to toss and prioritize anything that brings you true joy!

As always, I would like to say a BIG thank you to our readers, and everyone who supports Focus Magazine. It is a privilege to highlight my hometown and to continue learning about Southeast New Mexico. Our community is one-of-a-kind, and I have great pride in this small town. Please notice the businesses and organizations you see advertised throughout our magazine; without their support this free, local publication would not be possible.

If you have not already, please follow us on Facebook and check out our website—Focus NM Daily to find links to previous issues, regional stories, an events calendar, and so much more!

Happy reading,

Jessica Addington
Associate Publisher