Good

Love lights us up

- Carolyn Enting, editor carolyn@good.net.nz

To quote Tina Turner’s well-worn line “what’s love got to do with it?” Well, a lot it turns out!

Mapping the neural circuitry of emotions, researcher­s in Finland have found that love actually causes activity throughout the body, with happiness extending even further to the feet. Quite simply love lights us up inside and out, helping us to feel more alive as Kyra Xavia writes in her excellent article Heart Mapping (page 30).

These findings inspired us to look at love in this issue including love language and relationsh­ips. Kate and Tim Hall shared their eco-wedding plans with Good readers on good.net.nz recently so we didn’t have to look far for our perfect cover couple (read their story on page 32). We interview other inspiring couples too, quizzing them about their secrets for a successful relationsh­ip. Our couples include Vincent and Sarah Heeringa (Vincent actually co-founded Good magazine and Sarah was at the helm as editor for five years and is a current contributi­ng editor). Sarah’s advice to “make time to be alone together away from the mundane” is definitely on the mark. My partner and I recently booked a one-night five-star mini-break at The Langham Auckland. We felt as though we’d jetted offshore on holiday. It’s amazing how stepping out of the daily grind, chores and routine put a spring in our combined step.

All relationsh­ips experience a lull at some point. Our couples (see page 34), and psychology expert Dr Alice Boyes (page 106) offer some excellent advice on how to reconnect.

This issue is filled with so much love – from the contributo­rs who have poured their hearts into their stories to the content within these pages – from the importance of self-love, taking care of your own wellbeing and connecting with yourself, to the love we show in our work and actions.

One of the most powerful stories in this issue is documented by New Zealand humanitari­an photograph­er Helen Manson. Her story and photo essay of refugees of the world (page 26) actually reduced me to tears, but it also painted a picture of hope for these incredible human beings who are picking up their lives with the help of Tearfund New Zealand.

Karma Cola is also doing incredible work in Sierra Leone and have empowered an entire community through the trade of the cola nut, which has brought them self-sufficienc­y (page 17).

Foodie Vanessa Baxter is another wonderful human spreading her passion for good. In this issue she shares some of her wonderful recipes from her aptly titled book The Fearless Kitchen. The Ronald McDonald House ambassador is also helping educate street kids and youth in prisons by teaching them how to cook. Now that’s what I call sharing the love!

 ??  ?? Editor’s pick Helen Manson’s story Refugees of the World (page 26) is a moving and powerful read.
Editor’s pick Helen Manson’s story Refugees of the World (page 26) is a moving and powerful read.
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