YOUR DOSE OF LONGEVITY GOODNESS

Welcome to the new edition of The Juice. Shorter, punchier and now twice per week; Tuesday and Thursday. We really hope you enjoy the new format.

TODAY’S JUICE

• Rising from the Ashes: Repairing the damage of youth

• Juice - e - memes: Meet Fluffy

• In the hood: Klaus from Hamburg

• The Hack: Sonic Healing

RISING FROM THE ASHES

REPAIRING THE DAMAGE OF YOUTH

So, here's the thing. I spent my youth like a rockstar minus the fame and the fortune. Growing up in Australia, where the drinking culture is as real as boxing kangaroos, I dove headfirst into the party scene. By 14, I was swigging beers with a fake ID in hand, and that was just the opening act. My 20s and 30s? A blur of booze, late nights, and questionable choices that somehow didn't land me in a hospital or worse.

It's not just the hangovers and the hazy memories; it's the toll on our bodies that we didn't see coming. The hard hits taken on the sports field, the endless partying, the dance with addictions, years of neglecting a healthy diet, and even the sunburns from days spent carelessly in the sun - all of it leaves a mark, not just on our skin but deep within. Our joints, our backs, our internal systems - they've all borne the brunt of our ignorant youth.

But here's the good news - it turns out we're not just built to endure; we're built to recover. The field of epigenetics sheds light on a hopeful truth: our lifestyles can influence the way our genes behave. Yes, those years of pushing the envelope might have set us back, but it's not a one-way street. Science tells us that with meaningful changes to our lifestyle, we can nudge our bodies back towards health. The liver can heal from the ravages of alcohol, the lungs can clear from the smoke, and our brains can sharpen up once we ditch the junk in favor of nutrients and exercise. Some of the damage can be undone, depending on how far we pushed fate in our youth and our genetic dispositions.

I'd love to say that my personal transformation was backed by a squad of supportive friends and family cheering from the sidelines. But the truth is, change often means walking a path less traveled by those around you. Many of my friends are still caught in the same cycles, the grip of alcohol or deeper addictions holding fast. The older we get, the more entrenched these habits seem, the phrase "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" seems relevant. The resistance to change isn't just noticeable; it's formidable. Yet, for a few of us who've somehow managed to break free from that cycle, cutting out the alcohol was just the beginning. This initial step has triggered a cascade of healthier choices, each one reinforcing the next, leading us down a path where the concept of longevity isn't just an ideal; it's a tangible, everyday practice.

So, is it too late to start? The answer is a resounding no. It's never too late to make a change. Our bodies have a remarkable capacity for healing, and while we may not be able to turn back the clock entirely, we can certainly slow its advance and in some cases, even reverse the damage. The journey isn't easy, and it's often a solitary one, but the rewards - a healthier, happier, more resilient self - are immeasurably worth it. It's about reclaiming a piece of yourself that might have been lost along the way.

By Benjamin Mac

POLL

Tell us about your youth and how far you pushed the boundaries!

See the poll results in Thursdays edition

JUICE-e-MEMES

That’s an Extreme No!

In Last week’s Poll we asked:

Would you make the sacrifices Bryan Johnson does for the promise of living to 150?

You overwhelmingly (75%) told us…No thanks, you’d prefer to live life on your terms. 🏖 🍕

IN THE HOOD

STORIES FROM OUR COMMUNITY

This week

Meet Klaus D. from Hamburg - Conquering Cancer in his 50s

How old are you?

I'm in my mid-50s now, but age isn't really the point, you know? It's about how you live each day.

What is your 'longevity number’?

Oh, I've never been one for putting a number on it. Life's too unpredictable for that kind of thing. I just focus on making the most of what I have.

Can you share a specific turning point that motivated you to prioritize your health and well-being?

Certainly. When I was diagnosed with cancer, it was a profound awakening. It made me reassess everything - my lifestyle, my priorities, even my relationship with myself. I realized that true health encompasses not just the physical but the mental and emotional aspects as well. It was a wake-up call to start nurturing my body and soul with more care and consideration.

What are the greatest challenges you face in achieving a long life?

For me, it's akin to traversing a tightrope. Balancing the demands of work, the joys of family life, and the imperative of self-care requires a delicate equilibrium. I'm steadfast in my commitment to maintaining harmony among these facets of my existence.

What diet/style of eating works for you?

I'm deeply rooted in the ethos of sustainability and ethical consumption. Thus, my diet primarily revolves around plant-based, organic, and locally sourced produce. I find solace and vitality in nourishing my body with foods that are not only wholesome but also harmonious with the environment. It's a conscientious choice that resonates with my values and contributes to my overall well-being.

What do you do for physical fitness?

I'm an avid mountain biker. There's something profoundly liberating about riding my bike in nature, it's not merely exercise; it's a communion with nature that rejuvenates both my body and soul.

Do you have a supplement stack?

I do take some supplements, keeping it simple I use St. John's Wort for mood support and Arnica for inflammation. Plus, I make sure to include Keffir from local dairy farms in the Alps to support my gut health and boost my immune system

What other things do you do for longevity?

Besides my mountain biking adventures, I regularly immerse myself in nature and one activity that particularly rejuvenates me is swimming in cold water in natural settings like lakes, rivers, or occasionally the sea. It’s very invigorating and leaves me feeling grounded and resilient.

What has had the biggest impact on your longevity to date?

A whole new perspective and shift in priorities but perhaps the most profound impact has stemmed from cultivating a deep reverence for life itself, cherishing each moment as a precious gift and savoring the richness of existence in all its complexity.

What role does mental health play in your overall approach to longevity, and how do you prioritize it?

I've learned firsthand that true vitality emanates from within, stemming from a state of inner equilibrium and emotional resilience. I create awareness to my mental well-being with the same diligence as my physical health.

How do you balance the social aspects of life with your longevity goals?

While I cherish the camaraderie of friends and family, I also recognize the importance of boundaries and self-care. I prioritize meaningful connections over superficial interactions, cultivating relationships that uplift and inspire me. Whether it's sharing a meal with my partner or embarking on outdoor adventures with friends, I look for a harmonious balance between social engagement and personal well-being.

What advice would you give to someone just starting their journey toward a longer and healthier life?

My advice would be to approach the journey with a spirit of curiosity and self-compassion. Embrace the process of self-discovery, experimenting with different lifestyle practices to find what resonates most deeply with your unique being. And remember, longevity isn't just about adding years to your life; it's about adding life to your years. So savor each moment, cultivate gratitude for the abundance that surrounds you, and embrace the journey with an open heart and an adventurous spirit.

Sonic Healing Sessions at Home:

A Simple Guide

Sonic healing, also known as sound therapy, is a practice that uses various aspects of sound to improve your physical and emotional well-being. You don't need to attend a formal session to experience the benefits; you can create your own sonic healing environment at home with some simple steps and tools.

Understanding Sonic Healing

Sonic healing is grounded in the idea that different sound frequencies can influence our body's vibrations, promoting relaxation and healing. Research suggests that certain types of sound therapy, including binaural beats and music therapy, can reduce anxiety, stress, and even pain levels.

Getting Started

To set up your own sonic healing session at home, you'll need:

1. A Quiet Space: Choose a comfortable, quiet area where you won't be disturbed. This could be a cozy corner of your bedroom, a dedicated meditation space, or any place where you can relax without interruptions.

2. Sound Equipment: High-quality speakers or headphones are crucial for a clear and immersive experience. Headphones are particularly effective for binaural beats or guided meditation tracks.

3. Selection of Sounds: There are numerous free and paid resources online where you can find sounds tailored for relaxation and healing. These include:

   • Binaural Beats: Listen to binaural beats designed for relaxation, meditation, or sleep. These sounds play different frequencies in each ear, which the brain perceives as a single tone, encouraging a state of relaxation.

   • Nature Sounds: Recordings of rain, ocean waves, forest sounds, or running water can be profoundly relaxing and help recreate the therapeutic effects of being in nature.

   • Singing Bowls and Gongs: These instruments produce rich, resonating tones that are often used in sound therapy for their soothing properties.

Creating Your Sonic Healing Routine

1. Schedule Regular Sessions: Consistency is key. Try to dedicate at least 15-30 minutes daily or several times a week for your sonic healing practice.

2. Prepare Your Space: Ensure your chosen area is comfortable. You might want to dim the lights, light some candles, or use aromatherapy to enhance the ambiance.

3. Choose Your Sounds: Depending on your mood and needs, select a sound or combination of sounds for your session. You might prefer gentle nature sounds one day and deep, resonant singing bowl tones another.

4. Relax and Listen: Sit or lie down comfortably. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and allow yourself to become fully immersed in the sounds. Focus on the different frequencies and vibrations, letting them guide your mind and body into a state of deep relaxation.

5. Reflect: After your session, spend a few minutes in silence, reflecting on the experience. Notice any changes in your physical or emotional state.

Enhancing Your Experience

• Mindfulness and Breathing: Incorporate mindfulness practices and deep breathing exercises during your session to deepen the relaxation and healing effects.

• Regular Practice: The benefits of sonic healing, like many wellness practices, tend to increase with regular use. Make it a part of your daily routine for the best results.

By integrating sonic healing sessions into your wellness routine, you can create a powerful tool for relaxation and emotional well-being right in the comfort of your own home.

See you Thursday for our deep dive into Continuous Glucose Monitors and The over the counter miracle supplement NAC.

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