I came across this simple concept in Brooke McAlary's book Slow: Simple Living for a Frantic World. I'm a big believer in preventive medicine. I also equally love a clever quote that plays on health! For fast-acting relief, try slowing down. — Lily Tomlin What people eat can be medicine or poison. — Dr. Brenda Rea Are you taking your MEDS? (Meditation, Exercise, Diet, Sleep) This simple concept was created by behavioral consultant, Nicholas Bate.¹ Bate says: On a daily … [Read more...]
“Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life” (Book Summary)
If you're just looking for a quick overview of the ikigai concept, check out this previous post: Ikigai: The Japanese Purpose or “Reason for Being”. This post is a summary of the book Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles. I'm currently working on an eBook about creating your life purpose and was hoping this book would be a deep dive into the "how" of ikigai. However, it's more of an introduction to a variety of different topics … [Read more...]
Slow Hack 009: Take Daily Naps for Better Health & Creativity
Naps are making a comeback. I'm seeing the health benefits of napping everywhere lately. Even naps at work are becoming socially acceptable. WebMD says, "America, It's Time for Your Nap." There's even an ongoing debate about whether we should get back to polyphasic sleeping — like 85% of mammalian species. Maybe this is part of the reason modern-day humans need naps. People who Live the Longest take Naps The people in the Blue Zones know a thing or two, since they live the longest … [Read more...]
Blue Zones: How Ikarians Live Simply for 100+ Years
"The Island Where People Forget to Die" — That's the title of The New York Times article I came across during my existential crisis in 2015. I was searching through some emails recently and came across an email I sent to my dad in early 2016. Here's exactly what I sent him: I would say Ikarians (from the Blue Zones) are the most sane humans on the planet. Long healthy life, minimal impact on the planet, meaningful relationships ("us" vs. "me"), plant-based diets, drink wine and tea with … [Read more...]
The Benefits of LSD (Long Slow Distance) in Running and Life
In high school cross country, Tuesdays and Thursdays were reserved for interval training, speed work, and repeats. Fridays were easy runs in preparation for Saturday race days; followed by a short run (or usually nothing at all) on Sundays. And, Mondays and Wednesdays were for LSD (Long Slow Distance) — not to be confused with someone actually taking LSD and then going on a run. As high school kids, we obviously thought this acronym was hilarious. And all these years later, it's still stuck … [Read more...]
