Move like a baby

YOUR DOSE OF LONGEVITY GOODNESS

Welcome to The Juice

TODAY’S JUICE

  • Let the inner child play

  • Juice - e - memes: The Art of doing nothing

  • In the hood: Sofia from Sydney, Australia

  • The Hack: Hydration- are you doing it right?

INNER CHILD UNLEASHED

IT’S TIME TO PLAY

The arrival of my third baby ushered in a new chapter where trips to the gym became a distant memory. Yet, an unexpected form of exercise found its way into my routine—playtime with my two older children at the playground. As I chased after them, clambered up ropes, and navigated the pirate ship, I wasn't just another parent on the sidelines; I was an active participant, re-engaging with movement and play.

I feel incredibly excited to be playing chase with my kids. It's a stark contrast from before, where I'd typically return home from the playground feeling tired. Now, I go back feeling energized and looking forward to our next adventure. This newfound energy isn't just a fleeting post-play high; it's a profound realization that engaging with my kids in this way is deeply revitalizing.

This shift in perspective, from passive observer to active player, became about more than just sneaking in exercise—it forged a stronger bond with my children in the midst of our new family dynamics. Observing my kids, who embody the essence of movement—constantly running, jumping, and exploring—I was struck by a powerful thought: they are living embodiments of our innate need for movement, a need we tend to neglect as we age.

Inspired by Tom Vanderbilt's "Beginners," I embraced the beginner's mindset in the realm of physical activity. Vanderbilt's narrative, detailing his journey of learning new skills like chess and surfing later in life, resonated deeply. It reminded me that there's grace in being a novice, in the vulnerability of learning, and in the joy of rediscovery. As I joined my children in play, I reconnected with the simplicity of movement, feeling less like a spectator and more like a co-adventurer in their world of play.

The science behind this approach is compelling. Activities like running aren't just about maintaining fitness; they're a countermeasure against sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass. High-intensity play, akin to interval training, isn't merely child's play—it's a scientifically backed method for preserving muscle strength and vitality.

My playground experiences have led to a broader contemplation of the critical role that staying active plays throughout our lives. We are built for movement, yet modern lifestyles often lead us to forget that. We aren't so different from our children, who intuitively understand that to move is to live vibrantly.

Incorporating this insight into our daily lives isn't just about exercise; it's about embracing play, curiosity, and physicality as core components of our existence. As we age, the challenge isn't just to remain active—it's to do so with the enthusiasm and openness of a child, learning and growing with each new day.

Through this personal journey, I've come to understand the importance of maintaining a playful heart. Our society may sometimes frown upon adults who indulge in youthful play, but breaking free from this mindset can be liberating and beneficial for our longevity. Encouraging my kids to play isn't just for their development—it's a mutual opportunity for health and happiness.

So, I challenge you to rediscover the activities that once brought you joy. Swing on the monkey bars, play a game of tag, or simply run for the sheer pleasure of it. Our bodies and minds will thank us, not just with better health but with a brighter, more joyous approach to the everyday.

In the spirit of Vanderbilt's "Beginners," let's all find something new to learn, something that gets us moving, something that reignites the spark of playful vitality within. It's never too late to begin again, to become students of life and explorers of our boundless capacity for growth. Let this be our pathway to a life well-lived and a journey toward graceful aging.

By Benjamin Mac

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JUICE-e-MEMES

Lazy Longevity

 IN THE HOOD

STORIES FROM OUR COMMUNITY

James Dawson

Where are you from

Byron Bay Australia

How old are you

67

What’s your occupation

Property investor

Whats your number one tip for longevity?

I beleive in the law of abundance, I surf everyday which is a massive part of taking care of my mental and physical. It keeps me young, fit and agile

Hydration Essentials

  • Vital for health: Supports organ function, digestion, waste removal.

  • Daily need: Approx. 2 liters, varies by individual factors.

  • Steady intake: Sip throughout the day.

  • Exercise: Increase before, during, after workouts.

  • Warm weather: Boost intake on hot days.

  • Enhancers: Lemon or apple cider vinegar aids taste, digestion.

  • Tea/Coffee: Contributes but balance due to caffeine.

  • Water sources: Tap is generally fine; avoid plastic bottles.

  • Hydration indicators: Clear urine, regular urination.

  • Dehydration risks: Affects concentration, energy, kidney health

See you Thursday for our deep dive into The world of different diets and the supplement Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA).

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