In Greek mythology, fall marks the goddess Persephone’s return to the underworld to live with her husband Hades. As the story goes, Persephone’s mother – the Goddess of Fertility, Demeter – was devastated when Hades snatched her daughter to become his wife in the underworld, so she placed a curse on Earth, ensuring that it would not be able to produce any vegetation until her daughter was returned. In order to remedy this problem, Zeus declared that Persephone would live with her husband during half of the year and return to live with her mother during the other half. Thus, spring celebrates Persephone’s return to Earth and fall represents Demeter’s sorrow as she must once again bid farewell to her daughter.

While some of us may be mourning the end of summer and the changing of seasons, we here at Sip & Savor want to encourage you to take this opportunity to return to outdoor activities abandoned due to this summer’s extraordinary heat. Walking, running, hiking and biking are excellent ways to combine fitness and pleasure. Explore some local trails and see the leaves begin to change color. Or grab your family and friends and take a ride to a nearby farmer’s market to check out the wonderful produce this season has to offer. Winter will be here before you know it, so rather than mourn the end of summer, rejoice in the pleasant temperatures while they last!

However you choose to enjoy each season, remember the importance of eating a variety of foods and beverages in moderation and engaging in regular physical activity. After all, these are the keys to a healthy, active and balanced lifestyle.