By Michael Chauner

“AMotown hit, a singalong, a lullaby, a Beatles song. This is the hymnbook in my head.”

Sung from his brand-new piece “Hymns,” GRAMMY Award-winning Hudson Valley folk musician Tom Chapin reflects on the influential sounds of his life, spanning some of the most iconic eras in musical history from Woody Guthrie’s voice of resilience to the Vietnam protest anthems of Bob Dylan. Chapin’s whimsical new medley, written with long-time collaborator John Forster, includes taglines from Frank Sinatra, his brother Harry’s “Cat’s in the Cradle,” and even playfully interweaves “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” (those like me familiar with his style will understand…).

Chapin’s charismatic baritone voice that reverberated throughout my childhood sounds the same as it did thirty years ago when, as a young lad, his tunes rang over and over on every five-hour car ride my family took. Jovial singalongs like “Cousins,” which captures the chaos and joy of wild family outings, or the campy “State Laughs,” chronicling the adventures of traveling across the US, still echo in my mind.

But for Chapin, his lifelong passion for music isn’t just about reminiscing about days gone by. Instead, as he approaches his 80^th birthday, the charming and versatile troubadour continues to write, produce, and perform for audiences of all ages, riding the ever-changing wave of the musical landscape.

With a six-decade career in TV, radio, film, and theater, and as a leading voice in both Folk and children’s music, Tom Chapin is an enduring inspiration who crosses genres and generations – and truly embodies the forward-thinking and positive spirit of Healthy Aging.

In Greenwich Village, NYC. Left to right: James, Harry, Tom, Steve Chapin.

A Musical Legacy

Born into a family of artistic brilliance, Tom Chapin grew up in a household where creativity was not just celebrated but deeply ingrained. His father, Jim Chapin, was a jazz drummer; one grandfather, Kenneth Burke, was a noted critic and author; the other was James Chapin, a celebrated painter. In the 1950s, at the age of eight, Tom and his brothers Steve and Harry were sent by their grandmother to the Greenwich House Music School to gain classical training. She insisted that the boys should “learn the language of music.”

Jim Chapin (their dad, on drums), (then left to right) Harry, Steve, Tom.

With their formal training and budding desire to emulate the folk sounds of Pete Seeger and the Weavers, the boys traded their clarinets and trumpets for banjos and guitars, forming the Chapin Brothers.

It was performing in the 1960s at Greenwich Village hootenannies (or what my generation calls “open mics”) that propelled the adolescents to stardom, each creating their own legacies in the decades to come.

We covered Tom Chapin’s renowned musical journey and our unique connection to him in a previous issue of Healthy Aging Magazine published in 2020: Healthy Aging Magazine | Tom Chapin, The Troubadour of the Hudson Valley.

Back in the 90s, Healthy Aging® also worked with Tom on the public television special it produced, “Healthy Aging®… Redefining America,” a documentary featuring Tom on-camera and a special song he created and sang (“I’m Half of 100”).  Tom guided the viewer through upbeat, inspirational profiles of middle-aged Americans, baby boomers at that time, who were finding ways to deal with what lay ahead.

Harry and Tom Chapin, Naples, Italy, 1980

Family Affair

While Tom’s brother Harry made history with mega-hits in the 70s like “Cat’s in the Cradle” and “Taxi,” Tom carved out his own musical footprint as a respected singer-songwriter and TV Host. In the late 1980s, he began his pioneering Family Music career.

It took nothing more than a few long road trips with his then-school-aged children, Abigail and Lily,  to inspire Tom to create his first family album in 1988, Family Tree. The goal was to create “kid-friendly, parent-safe” singalongs to combat the boredom (and sometimes anguish) of never-ending drives with the whole family – something my parents are undoubtedly grateful for!

Photo: Abigail Chapin

The success of Family Tree, featuring the famous track “This Pretty Planet,” catapulted Chapin into a new career chapter where he launched twelve more award-winning family-style albums.

Lily, Abigail, and Tom Chapin at the Clearwater Festival, 6/18/17. Photo: SJ Sherman

Unsurprisingly, Chapin’s daughters Abigail and Lily have become successful musicians on their own, performing together as The Chapin Sisters.

During the height of the Covid shutdowns, they appeared with their Dad, bringing solace and joy to audiences around the globe by streaming two hundred live concerts under the moniker “Mornings with Papa Tom and The Chapin Sisters.” (All archived on YouTube).

Staying In Tune

At the dawn of today’s music era, when streaming replaced records and CDs, Chapin and many aspiring artists recognized the near-impossible goal of becoming a successful powerhouse in the industry by churning out new solo albums. While Chapin acknowledges that today’s musicians and their sounds are some of the best created, the era of streaming has “made music not so much music, but data.”

The nature of the industry shaped Chapin’s career path, forcing him to be creative and reach across disciplines to achieve commercial success. Chapin admits that he never wanted to be “a career on-the-road guy like Willie Nelson”, instead preferring family values over the excesses of the rockstar life where close relationships and creative work collaborations came to define his career.

Dr. Ruth K. Westheimer with Tom Chapin. Photo top left: WikiCommons. All other photos: Courtesy of Tom Chapin

When brainstorming impressive upcoming projects, Chapin’s first instinct is to consider who else he can involve from his vast network of creative individuals—whether it is longtime collaborators like John Forster, Michael Mark, and Jon Cobert or unique characters he has encountered throughout his career, like Dr. Ruth K. Westheimer.

The renowned psychosexual therapist and media personality met Tom when he performed a few concerts aboard the famous Queen Elizabeth II ocean liner, and they quickly became friends. While mainly known for her trailblazing work in the provocative realm of sex therapy, Dr. Ruth aimed to expand her portfolio with a family-friendly project focused on children and their grandparents. Tom Chapin immediately came to mind, and the two soon teamed up to bring the idea to life.

Dr. Ruth, at just 4 foot, 7 inches tall, with her candid nature and reputation for discussing adult topics, created a humorous contrast to Chapin’s mild-mannered and wholesome, family-man persona at 6 feet, 5 inches, that led to some laughs on stage when they would appear together.

Following Dr. Ruth’s passing in 2024, Chapin and John Forster, along with the SONOS Chamber Orchestra led by Erik Ochsner, honor her memory by bringing to life Grandfather Camp: An Orchestral Fantasy, a transformative and morally compelling journey of a young granddaughter’s developing relationship with her grandfather. The team aims to launch the project this summer, which will culminate with a live concert piece for three actors and an orchestra, a recording, and an illustrated book.

Tom Chapin standing in a field of flowers 2024. Photo: Bonnie Chapin

Staying Driven

As Chapin nears his 80th birthday this March, he embraces the milestone with an optimistic outlook, energized by plans for his next exciting collaboration. When asked about retirement, Chapin says with a smile, “Retire to what? Playing music?”

To mark his special celebration, Tom Chapin is unveiling a “lost” album featuring songs from Make A Wish, recorded back in 1976. The Emmy and Peabody Award-winning TV show, which aired on ABC News from 1971 to 1976, captivated audiences with its imaginative storytelling.

As the show’s host, Tom played a pivotal role in its success, even bringing his then-unknown brother, Harry Chapin, on board to compose two songs for each episode. This collection highlights some of Tom’s favorite tracks from the Make A Wish era, including the iconic “Chapin Anthem,” (All My Life’s a) Circle.

The project is called The Make A Wish SongBag and will be released on March 13, 2025, Chapin’s 80^th birthday.

In recent years, Simon & Schuster has also published three children’s books inspired by Tom Chapin’s songs: This Pretty Planet, Library Song (The Library Book), and The Backwards Birthday Party. In addition to his contributions as an author, Chapin lends his voice as the narrator of several children’s books that have won GRAMMY awards in the Best Spoken Word Album for Children category.

His Own Legacy

“This Pretty Planet,” perhaps the most well-known song of Chapin’s career, has become a staple in school music classes worldwide. It is a song about our beautiful round earth (also sung in a round) that gained global popularity, especially during the Covid shutdowns, when students and teachers sang it together virtually over Zoom. Since then, it has been replicated thousands of times in viral fashion as new versions continue to emerge.

“It’s a song that’s going to outlive me by a long way. And it’s a song that every time I hear a bunch of kids sing it, I start to tear up,” Chapin fondly says.

Chapin’s uplifting and amusing voice will certainly be added to my own generation’s list of hymns, as his music served as a true source of entertainment and inspiration for many of us throughout our childhoods.

Yet, looking back on his own life, Chapin doesn’t care to be remembered for songwriting alone.

He takes the most pride in making a career out of his passion, connecting with wide-ranging audiences, and for the family and friends who have enjoyed the journey alongside him.

Chapin now approaches eighty with forward-looking vision as he forges on with creative new projects he has crafted for himself – truly dancing to the tune of his own guitar:

“I’ve had this incredible life doing what I want to do, a really interesting career, and an amazing family through it all.”

Michael Chauner is a writer, international cyclist, coach, and competition director for a new indoor cycling league. Throughout his 20-year cycling career, he competed on professional teams in Sweden, Canada, and the Netherlands. Chauner recently interviewed and wrote the cover feature on acclaimed French chef Jacques Pepin … Still Teaching Generations to Cook for Healthy Aging®. He was thrilled to meet and interview Tom Chapin, an artist he grew up listening to and who had a significant influence on his childhood.

*All photos, unless otherwise noted, courtesy of Tom Chapin

By Carolyn Worthington

Spain has been calling me to explore its diverse countryside for over 10 years. Each time, I discovered something different … from cycling and hiking, cultural exploration, food and wine tastings, luxurious spas, and more …

Indulge in a Luxurious Spa

If you are researching a spa vacation, consider Spain. The country is known for its thermal waters, which are rich in minerals like magnesium, calcium, and sulfur. Hotels and resorts are often built around these natural springs, which are believed to treat various conditions, from arthritis and skin diseases to respiratory issues.

There are loads of spas to choose from on the Spain Tourism website, but a few highlights are:

Las Caldas Villa Termal is a benchmark for health tourism in Spain thanks to the mineral-medicinal waters that flow from its spring. The complex has two hotels, a spa, a sports center, and three restaurants to enjoy a few days of relaxation and healthy eating. The Royal Spa, an old bath house from the 18th century, the Aquaxana ecothermal center and its exclusive circuit of the Hall of the Columns, make up a wide range of personalised hydrotherapy treatments that focus on physical and emotional well-being.

Palacio del Agua en el Balneario de Mondariz. Photo: Wiki Commons

Mondariz was founded in the Galician province of Pontevedra in 1873. The spa has an amazing “water palace” with a surface of over 3,000 square meters and the “Celtic circuit,” a spa therapy circuit that combines five relaxing techniques: Peeling shower effect, enclosed shower with powerful water jets for the back and feet; sauna set in the stones of Celtic Galicia; pressure jet to help move the muscles; outdoor contrast bath to achieve harmony of body and mind. As a complement, the Mondariz spa has innovative thermal treatments based on the medicinal mineral water from its springs.

Cantabria is another of the regions of Green Spain with extensive spa traditions. The Gran Hotel Balneario de Puente Viesgo, in the region of the Valles Pasiegos, has mineral-medicinal waters and is recommended for the treatment of cardiovascular, respiratory or rheumatological problems, among others. In addition to planning personalized spa programs, its “Temple of Water” spa-leisure space has a large dynamic pool, saunas, hot springs, and contrast baths. The circuit in Cantabria is a sensory experience. Equipped with bubble beds, jets, volcanoes and jacuzzis it is set in the prehistoric caves of the Castle and its cave paintings, which can be visited in the same town.

Other places to explore, based on my past experiences traveling to Spain, include:

Arco romano de Cáparra. Photo: Extremadura Turismo.

Bird Watching in Extremadura

Take a road trip bird watching in Extremadura. Located southwest of Madrid, snuggled next to Portugal and just north of Andalusia, Extremadura called to me. It seemed to offer all of the wonderful things I hoped for in a travel off the beaten path; special regional cuisine and wine; history; and culture. And, of course, birding.

Valencia … The Orchard of Spain

Valencia, the orchard of Spain, is featured in  Healthy Aging® Magazine‘s five-part active travel series. This amazing part of the world offers delightful contrasts, from the beaches along the Mediterranean to the fertile inland and mountainous areas to the west. The cosmopolitan city of Valencia is juxtaposed against the old city and the ancient ones in the region, like Morella and Sant Mateu.

And, for cycling fans, Valencia sometimes hosts portions of La Vuelta, Spain’s world-class tour similar to the Tour de France, although not in 2025. This year, La Vuelta will pass through the northern regions of Spain, such as Catalonia, Aragón, La Rioja, Navarra, the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, Galicia, Castilla y León, and concludes in Madrid.

Romanesque art example. Photo: MNAC

Discover Romanesque Art in the Pyrenees

On another trip, I discovered Romanesque Art in the Pyrenees. If you want to explore art, culture, religious history, and European history; love to seek out chef-owned restaurants in the country; sample artisan foods, wine, and craft beer; and be active by hiking, kayaking, or canoeing, then discovering Romanesque art in the Pyrenees might be your next trip. Discover Romanesque Art in the Pyrenees: An Authentic Adventure – Healthy Aging ®.

Town of Taull, Vall de Boi, Catalonia, Spain. Photo: Deposit Photos

Catalonia for Active and Wellness Tourism and World-Class Cuisine

Imagine riding your bike leisurely from vineyard to vineyard, stopping to taste a full-bodied cabernet, a fruity, or a sparkling white wine. Then, imagine ending your day with a dinner made from local ingredients and prepared by a world-class chef.

This could be you … in a place called Catalonia.

Make Catalonia, Spain, your next stop for an active vacation.

Majorca. Photo: C. Worthington

Cycling and Relaxing in Majorca

If you want to get ready for summer cycling, check out Majorca, a hidden gem for cycling. 

San Sebastian – The Gastronomic Jewel of Europe

Foodies and seekers of cultural experiences rejoice! San Sebastian, Spain, the cultural and gastronomic jewel of Europe, is an undiscovered destination not to miss and should move to the top of your travel list.

San Sebastian is for you if you are an active traveler who likes to find unique opportunities. We have suggestions in our series from sampling local seafood and farm-fresh ingredients to exploring unique historical sites while becoming one with the local culture.

There are many reasons to put this gem at the top of your bucket list, from location/location/location to the tantalizing gastronomic experience and out-of-the-ordinary cultural happenings.

Located in the Basque region where two languages are spoken (Basque and Spanish), San Sebastian is the perfect destination for those who want to combine the seashore with the country and city life.

Cycling and Star-Gazing in Tenerife

Located about 60 miles off the Moroccan coast in the North Atlantic, Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands at 785 square miles and stands the tallest amongst its six siblings. We found an amazing and unique trip experience that crushes those goals in an adventurous fashion: Cycling in Tenerife.

The Spain Tourism website offers more ideas for what to do and see in Spain. It offers fantastic digital brochures on sports and nature, destinations, food, leisure, and culture, as well as suggested routes.

What is the Mediterranean Diet?

The Mediterranean diet is a broad description of the traditional dietary habits gleaned from the countries along the Mediterranean Sea. Each of the more than 20 countries has its own culture and cuisine, but they share these common diet choices:

• Including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and nuts
• Choosing olive oil over butter or other oils
• Limiting dairy products, red meat, sweets, sugars, salt, and highly processed food.

Followers of the Mediterranean diet are said to have the lowest rates of chronic diseases such as heart disease and some cancers.

Here are two guidebooks for exploring Mediterranean cooking: Mediterranean Cooking by Ellen Brown and “healthy cooking secrets from the land of longevity” The Iberian Table by Robin Keuneke.

Mediterranean Cooking…More than 150 Favorites to Enjoy with Family and Friends by Ellen Brown

Author Ellen Brown was the first food editor for USA Today and wrote over 40 cookbooks before she passed away in 2021. Her books were written for and are still enjoyed by inexperienced and professional cooks covering a wide variety of cuisines and foods. Brown mixes traditional Mediterranean classics with contemporary renditions in her book, Mediterranean Cooking. The book has 150 ideas with beautiful photographs to tempt you to make a Mediterranean recipe tonight.

Here are three we enjoy:

Valencian Salad, a refreshing medley of fresh oranges, tomatoes, red onion, black olives, and avocadoes flavored with Manchego cheese and fresh mint, tossed in an orange olive oil dressing.

Perfect for wintery evenings is Carrot, Raisin and Herb salad – a mouthwatering combination of roasted baby carrots spiced with cinnamon and cumin tossed with an orange vinaigrette with raisins and finished with mint and parsley.

Braised Green Beans take center stage in this healthy and eye-catching combo of Swiss Chard, baby potatoes and tomatoes.

The Iberian Table – Healthy Cooking Secrets from the Land of Longevity – Introduction to The Spanish Mediterranean Diet by Robin Keuneke

The Iberian Table …This book is a combination of a health book, cookbook, and culinary travel memoir, and it is somewhat of a love letter to Spain. Keuneke draws upon her experience as an author, natural foods chef, and fine artist to share this compendium of recipes and information on the Mediterranean Diet. The over 400-page book explores Spain’s varied culinary cultures and offers advice on meal planning and weekly menus with readily available ingredients.

Keuneke is also the author of Total Breast Health: Power Foods for Prevention and Wellness and co-author of The Detox Revolution: A Powerful Program for Boosting Your Body’s Ability to Fight Cancer and Other Diseases. She is the former food editor of Total Health Magazine.

Here are two sample recipes from her book:

Navarran Mixed Vegetable Menestra

 “Adoring every type of vegetable since I can remember, this recipe speaks to me. And, yes, it does require a few pots and pans, but some things are worth the effort. After all, if chef Elena Arzak wants her final meal to be “all vegetables, cooked separately, and prepared just right,” then I’m in the best company. Be sure, however, that the vegetables are not overcooked.

Options: After all the vegetables are combined, Serrano ham or slices of hardboiled egg can be added as garnish.”

Cod on a Bed of Multicolor Vegetables with Two Sauces

“The rainbow-colored vegetables surrounding the stark white of the cod reminds me a little of Parc Güell. This Barcelona modernist garden with boldly colored ceramic sculptures designed by Antoni Gaudí, is emblematic of Modernisme, which began in the nineteenth century when the region worked to restore its identity—and language—and set it apart from Castilian Spain. In no other part of the world did the art nouveau movement leave such a legacy as in Catalunya, especially Barcelona, thanks to the immense talent there, especially Antoni Gaudí.”

Recipes and photo reprinted with permission from The Iberian Table by Robin Keuneke/Bay of Roses Books/October 2024

By Matt Cammaert

As we step into 2025, travel is evolving into a more exclusive and meaningful pursuit, reflecting changing priorities among affluent travelers. Kensington, a global leader in private guided luxury travel, has unveiled its first-ever Travel Trends Report, highlighting key destinations, motivations, and experiences shaping the future of travel. For readers of Healthy Aging® Magazine, these insights offer a roadmap to planning journeys that enrich the soul, create lasting memories, and prioritize well-being.

Rediscovering Authenticity: The Joy of “Off-the-Beaten-Path” Adventures

The desire to escape crowded tourist hubs is stronger than ever, with travelers seeking hidden gems that promise peace and authenticity. In Italy, for instance, lesser-known destinations like Puglia, Syracuse, and Bari are experiencing a surge in popularity. Similarly, French towns like Bayeux and Lyon offer charm and culture without the crowds, making them perfect for those who value meaningful, stress-free travel.

Hike in the Patagonian mountains, Argentina. Photo: Deposit Photos

The Rise of Seamless Luxury

Affluent travelers increasingly prioritize seamless, bespoke experiences. According to Kensington’s report, 72% of travelers prefer using a professional to plan and book trips, ensuring every detail is handled with precision. Whether it’s a private driver in the French countryside or a yacht charter in French Polynesia, luxury travelers are willing to invest in one-stop solutions that deliver personalized, VIP-style journeys.

Shifting Seasons and Mindful Travel Timing

Avoiding peak seasons has become a top priority for savvy travelers. Fall is now the preferred time to explore Europe, with bookings up 4.6% over summer. Summer travel to Africa has risen by 34.1%, reflecting the appeal of wildlife safaris during this season. These shifts align with a desire to embrace a more relaxed pace, where cultural immersion and serene landscapes take precedence.

Celebrating Milestones and Personal Goals

Travelers aged 45 and older are redefining their motivations. Kensington’s data shows a significant increase in trips for retirement celebrations and personal enrichment, such as safaris, which saw a 23.1% rise. Unlike the past focus on milestone celebrations like honeymoons, today’s travelers are driven by personal aspirations, whether it’s exploring the rugged beauty of Patagonia or cruising the tranquil waters of French Polynesia.

Tenerife, Spain. Photo: Michael Chauner

Solo Travel: A Path to Self-Discovery

Solo travel is making a comeback post-pandemic as individuals seek transformative experiences. Destinations like India, Egypt, and Thailand offer deeply enriching journeys for midlifers looking to reconnect with themselves. Nearly 60% of survey respondents expressed openness to solo international travel, highlighting its growing appeal as a way to rejuvenate and rediscover.

Investing in Unparalleled Experiences

With health and wellness remaining key priorities, travelers are embracing opportunities to elevate their journeys. Kensington’s report notes a 159% increase in trips costing $1,000–$2,000 per day and a 400% rise in those exceeding $2,000 per day. From private chefs aboard luxury yachts to curated cultural interactions, these experiences emphasize exclusivity and personalization, ensuring every moment is unforgettable.

Top Destinations to Watch in 2025

For Healthy Aging® Magazine readers seeking unique adventures, Kensington recommends these standout destinations:

1. Spain

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and rich history of Spain from exploring the Alhambra’s Moorish splendor and Gaudi’s architectural wonders to savoring tapas in hidden alleyways or enjoying family adventures like flamenco lessons or catamaran cruises for an unforgettable journey through Spain’s sunlit cities, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine.

Patricia Lake panorama, Jasper national park, Canada. Photo: Deposit Photos

2. Canadian Rockies

Discover breathtaking landscapes and private tours in Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper.

3. French Polynesia

Sail the serene, lesser-visited islands for ultimate privacy and luxury.

Otranto in Puglia with crystal waters. Photo: Deposit Photos

4. Puglia, Italy

Savor farm-to-table cuisine and boutique accommodations along stunning coastlines.

5. Chile

Explore Patagonia and the Atacama Desert through eco-luxury lodges and guided excursions.

Traveling Smarter, Living Better

The modern luxury traveler values not just the destination but the journey itself. Kensington’s focus on authenticity, personalization, and sustainability aligns with the ethos of Healthy Aging Magazine. Whether it’s navigating the picturesque alleys of Bari, savoring local delicacies in Ghana, or sailing the pristine waters of French Polynesia, these trends underscore travel as a transformative experience that nurtures mind, body, and spirit.

In 2025, let your travels be a celebration of life’s milestones, a path to self-discovery, and an opportunity to connect deeply with the world around you. As Kensington’s report suggests, the possibilities are as boundless as your imagination.

Matt Cammaert is senior vice president of marketing and outside sales for Kensington, 

By Ami Cullen

It was 2005, and the grind of everyday life had taken over. I had passed the bar exam and was well into my second year at my law firm, working endlessly to hit my billable hour requirement.

Getting to the gym after a long day at work was a struggle, and getting to the farm to ride my horses was an even greater struggle. Although I made good money and had status at a young age, the greater my achievements at work, the less time I had for horses and myself.

I felt stuck—having to keep working in law because that was what I got my degree in, and I had student loans to pay. I felt I really didn’t have a choice in what I was supposed to be doing.

I was dating someone I thought I should, I was in a career I thought I should be in, and I just kept waiting for things to improve. But nothing ever did.

My best friend suggested we head to the C Lazy U dude ranch in Granby, Colorado, for vacation. I was hesitant at first as I would have much rather gone on a beach vacation, but this experience would ultimately significantly impact my life and everything I thought I was supposed to be and do.

I will never forget the first time I visited the C Lazy U Ranch. Driving under the archway and down the mile-long ranch road was like driving through time.

Photo courtesy of Ami Cullen

It was beautiful.

Well-cared-for and happy horses were everywhere, grazing among the beautiful aspens and wildflowers. Pleasant cowboys greeted us, and we were provided with elegant and cozy accommodations.

I was paired with a little buckskin horse named Gunsmoke, who I rode twice a day every day—I could feel my spirit repair. We were guided to the most beautiful terrain where we could experience the most thrilling lopes. We saw incredible wildlife, including moose and bald eagles, herds of elk, pronghorn (antelope), and mule deer. By the end of my weeklong vacation, I didn’t want to leave, and all I could talk about was coming back next summer.

I booked a vacation to the ranch every summer after that. It was the one week every year that I looked forward to. I remember waking up watching the wranglers jingle in the herd of 200 horses and having an overwhelming feeling that I needed to be a part of it.

(The jingle is when the wranglers ride out in the morning to gather the herd. The story goes that back in the day, some horses wore cowbells around their neck so the wranglers could find them in the dark or when they chose to hide among the willow bushes).

Photo courtesy of Ami Cullen

Fast forward several years to 2012, when the opportunity arose to work as a seasonal summer wrangler. The decision to walk away from my legal career was not an easy one. From six figures to ten dollars an hour. I traded my business attire for cowboy boots and jeans. I gave myself six months to play cowgirl and convinced myself I would return to my career. I never did.

The first summer working at the ranch would prove to be the greatest summer of my life. Waking up at 4 a.m. to jingle in the herd of horses and watch the sunrise became part of my everyday routine.

For the first time in my adult life, I was truly happy with my place in the world and sincerely loved going to work every day. My riding and natural intuition returned to something that I hadn’t felt in a long time. I did not miss practicing law or the grind that had become my existence.

C Lazy U Ranch is a magical place. The longer I stayed and worked there, the more it absorbed my soul. I could not imagine leaving for any other type of job, nor did I want to, but the real world was calling.

I had student loans and financial commitments, and working as a wrangler was never meant to be permanent. I needed to return to my old life, but the longer I stayed away, the less connected I felt to the person I was. I just had to believe this was the life I was meant to live and that things would ultimately work out.

Soon after my summer working as a wrangler ended, I began a half-hearted attempt to find another job as an attorney. I was sad and depressed about it, which meant that no firm was remotely interested in hiring me. I figured I had doomed my career and was beginning to accept my fate as a washed-up attorney who would be lucky to find contract work.

Surprisingly, one day, the ranch called and asked if I would be interested in interviewing for a position as an operations manager. I jumped at the chance and was immediately offered the job, which I accepted without a second thought.

During my time at the ranch, I progressed in my career and oversaw many departments, even serving as the Interim General Manager for seven months. Ultimately, I accepted a position as the Director of Equestrian Operations, which I still hold today.

The long, tiring hours and physical labor that ranch work entails can be exhausting, but I feel fulfilled and happy at the end of every workday, which, for me, is the best type of pay there is. I love connecting people and horses and find incredible joy in watching a dude ranch vacation significantly impact guests every week. They, too, come back year after year to take a break from their everyday life’s grind and reset while riding horses in the Rocky Mountains.

I hope my experience encourages others to follow their hearts and allow the journey to happen. When life’s predictability takes over, and you find yourself questioning your purpose and happiness, take a trip, go on an adventure, break out of your everyday cycle, and try something new. You never know where it may lead you.

Photo: Molly Johnson Photography

Ami Cullen is the author of Running Free: An Incredible Story of Love, Survival, and How 200 Horses Trapped in a Wildfire Helped One Woman Find Her Soul. Cullen hails from Chester County, Pennsylvania, where her love for horses first blossomed. She earned her law degree from the Catholic University School of Law in Washington, D.C., and practiced medical malpractice defense law at a firm in Bethesda, Maryland.

During a vacation at the C Lazy U Ranch, she discovered her true passion — ranch life and taking care of horses. Currently, Cullen is the Director of Equestrian Operations and oversees all aspects of the C Lazy U Ranch’s Equine Program.

Cullen resides in Granby, Colorado, with her husband, Mike; their cat, and their two dogs.

For more information, visit Running Free Horses, Instagram (@amimcullen) or Facebook (Ami Cullen).

By Julie and Marc Bennett

When we decided to sell our home and buy an RV to travel full-time, we were in our early to mid-40s. It was 2014, and we had only been married a few years. On the surface, we had what society might label a “normal” life,” good jobs and a nice home in a lovely neighborhood. Yet, as we questioned the meaning of this “normal” life, we came across a quote by American journalist, Ellen Goodman, that stopped us in our tracks:

“Normal is getting dressed in clothes that you buy for work, driving through traffic in a car that you are still paying for, in order to get to a job that you need so you can pay for the clothes, car, and house that you leave empty all day in order to afford to live in it.”

The words hit home, and we knew we wanted more. So, at 43 and 45, we traded predictability for possibility. We sold our house, bought an RV, and set off on a journey to live, work, and travel full-time—bringing our beloved dog, Coda, along for the adventure.

Rather than settle for coexisting in a “normal” life, we instead consciously chose to co-create a richer one, fueled by our love of travel and making the most of our time together. Knowing that tomorrow was promised to no one, we decided not to wait for retirement. We wanted to embrace this lifestyle while we were still young, active, and in good health.

Julie and Marc at The Badlands

The Call to Adventure: Why We Chose RV Living

The seed for this lifestyle was planted in Marc in 2001 during a 5,000-mile road trip aboard a luxury motorcoach on a business trip with colleagues. “I remember sitting up front, watching the countryside roll by through that big windshield and thinking, “This is the life” Marc recalls.

Then, in 2011, we met a couple of full-time RVers at a pizza restaurant in Colorado Springs. As they shared their RV life stories, their infectious zest for life ignited a spark in us. We drove home buzzing with excitement, both saying, “We should definitely do that someday!”

It took a few years until we made that dream a reality. We realized RV living aligned perfectly with our dreams. It would give us more time together, freedom to explore, and the chance to create a life filled with meaningful experiences rather than material possessions. Our biggest challenge – how to work from the road – was answered when Marc landed a remote job, and we set the wheels in motion… literally!

Overcoming Fears and Finding Freedom

Stepping into the unknown wasn’t without its fears. Julie’s biggest concern was losing a sense of connection and community. For Marc, it was maintaining reliable internet for work.

“We tackled these fears head-on,” Julie says. “We researched endlessly, invested in tools to ensure connectivity, and reminded ourselves that challenges would become opportunities to grow.”

And grow, we did. As Julie puts it: “When you get an idea, don’t just talk or dream about it—go find a way to make it happen!”

The Joys of RV Living

Since then, we’ve visited 50 U.S. states, Canada and Mexico, owned five RVs, and driven over 100,000 miles. The rewards of our RV life and travels have far outweighed the challenges. Driving America’s scenic byways, exploring national parks, local gems, and chasing the best weather of every season have given us a deeper appreciation for each place and life’s simple joys.

We’ll never forget our first visit to the Grand Canyon. It was snowing, and the view was completely obscured as we stood by the edge. But as the snowfall eased, the canyon opened up and revealed itself—dusted in white, vast, and breathtaking.

Another memorable experience was watching hundreds of colorful hot air balloons float over us at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. With our RV parked by the field, we had a front-row seat to this awe-inspiring and magical spectacle.

“Living in an RV has given us the freedom to see places at their best,” Marc shares. “When it’s your lifestyle and not a vacation, you don’t have to hurry there and back. Instead, we’ve been able to immerse ourselves in each destination, traveling at our own pace and letting the journey unfold naturally.”

One Might Wonder – How We Make a Living from the Road

We didn’t start with deep pockets or a windfall when we hit the road in 2014—when we met in 2010, we had next to nothing. Initially, Marc worked remotely in operations management for a Texas-based company, while Julie used her marketing expertise to create RVLove.com and our YouTube channel.

What began as a way to document our travels and share advice quickly became a trusted resource. By 2017, RVLove had grown, so Marc left his corporate job to join Julie full-time. Since then, we’ve written two books with a major publisher and launched the first online school for RVers. Combining creativity, resourcefulness, and savvy decisions, we’ve built a sustainable business that funds our travels and inspires others to pursue their adventures.

Marc repairing RV in campground

Challenges and Life Lessons

That’s not to say RV living has been without its bumps. Repairs, breakdowns, and unexpected delays can throw a wrench in even the best-laid plans. “You quickly learn that flexibility isn’t optional—it’s essential,” Marc says.

The solution? DIY skills, adaptability, and a sense of humor. From fixing RV repairs to navigating breakdowns and changing campground bookings on the go, each challenge became a chance to build resilience and self-reliance.

We quickly learned that the unexpected and challenges are all part of the adventure. When you embrace that, you can really lean into and enjoy RV life, no matter what it throws at you.

“RV living makes you more resourceful and confident in your ability to handle just about anything!” says Julie.

Tips for Aspiring RVers

For those considering RV life, we offer this advice:

Start with a Test Run:

Rent an RV for a week or two to see if it fits your lifestyle well. If so, try different kinds to determine which type you prefer.

Research and Budget:

Be realistic about costs – from fuel and campgrounds to the total cost of RV ownership. Having the right camping memberships for your travel style can save you substantial money. Learn more about all this at our RVLove website.

Travel Slowly:

“Approach RVing as a lifestyle, not a vacation,” Julie emphasizes. “Rushing and trying to pack everything in will burn you out. Take your time and savor the experience. It will be more enjoyable, safer, and less expensive.”

Prioritize Health:

RV living is perfect for staying active. We hike, bike, and explore new trails everywhere we go. And preparing meals is easy in an RV, which helps us stick to a healthier diet while traveling.

Aging Vibrantly on the Road

The RV lifestyle may seem unconventional, but it aligns beautifully with our approach to aging. Staying active, mentally sharp, and socially engaged is baked into RV living. We’ve bonded with countless fellow travelers, shared stories around campfires, and formed lifelong friendships.

“We’ve also discovered that people are more alike than different,” Julie says. “Traveling helps you see the world—and yourself—in new ways. It’s humbling and deeply rewarding.

Keeping physically and mentally engaged while connecting with other RVers, exchanging tips, and bonding over shared adventures—is part of what makes the RV lifestyle so fulfilling.

Photo: GabrielaPhoto.com

Final Thoughts

As we reflect on over a decade of RV living, one lesson stands out: Tomorrow is promised to no one. If you’ve ever dreamed of living differently—breaking free from routine to embrace a life of purpose and adventure—we encourage you to consider living the RV life. And if the idea of this lifestyle ignites something in you….take the leap! Start learning and planning to make it happen.

“RVing has changed our lives,” Marc says. “In just a few years, we checked off our bucket list goal of visiting all 50 U.S. states before 50… while working full-time! We’ve shared incredible experiences and made lifelong friends we reconnect with around the country. It’s amazing what you can see and do, when you prioritize experiences over possessions.”

If you’re reading this and it’s awakening a desire in you, this is your friendly reminder that the open road is waiting, and so is your next adventure. All it takes is the courage to answer the call.

Will we see you out there?

Marc and Julie Bennett of RVLove.com are avid RVers, authors, and advocates for living an adventurous, healthy, and fulfilling life at any age. They share practical advice and inspiration through their bestselling books, Living the RV Life and RV Hacks, as well as their blog and YouTube channel. (All photos courtesy of The Bennetts except where noted).

By Jaya Jaya Myra

Have you found yourself getting more introspective as you get older? If so, you’re not alone. It’s a normal part of becoming wiser and more in tune with yourself.

People tend to associate aging with the limitations it brings, but it’s just the opposite. Growing older can often give you so much more to life, and some of what we learn would be deemed priceless to your younger self.

Aging isn’t about slowing down – it’s about recalibrating, re-centering, and redefining what it means to live a successful life. Part of the beauty of getting older is that we no longer prioritize others’ expectations of us and are more able to evaluate what happiness and success mean for each of us.

As we age, the desire to lead a purposeful and joyful life becomes more intentional. The WELL Method is intended to help people align with what is meaningful to them and give them a framework for prioritizing what is important.

The WELL Method is an acronym I coined that serves as a practical guide for finding balance, joy, and purpose. The method empowers individuals to create a fulfilling and harmonious life regardless of their belief system. It is comprised of four cornerstones: Work-Life Harmony, Expect Excellence, Live Your Purpose, and Love, Not Fear. They are as adaptable as they are impactful, offering a practical framework to thrive at any age.

W – Work-Life Harmony

Life can be overwhelming, and prioritizing the things that truly matter can get lost along the way when you don’t take the time to know what is important to you. Living a meaningful life goes beyond juggling endless priorities; it’s about making intentional choices that honor your time and energy.

To do this, you must take the time and space to determine what you most need and want to truly thrive. Cultivating work-life harmony means recognizing that your time is finite and choosing where to invest it in a way that creates synergy for your happiness.

Balance and harmony are often thought of as the same thing but are distinctly different approaches to navigating life. Balance implies a perfect split, a scale where every priority is equally weighted. Harmony, on the other hand, embraces creating synergy in life with your priorities and recognizing that not all parts of your life will be equally balanced. It’s about prioritizing the truly important and making the pieces synergize so 1+2 adds up to 5, not 2.

The idea behind work-life harmony is to make both pieces work for you to create a meaningful life. If you’re an entrepreneur and building your dream company, you may spend a lot of time working joyfully! If you hate your job, that’s another story entirely. What can you do to make the pieces work for you?

This might look like committing to a morning yoga class before tackling emails, spending quality time with family after work, or saying no to social obligations that don’t align with your priorities. It may mean having a mood-boosting, focus-enhancing breakfast to start your day.

It’s about allowing the different areas of your life to coexist peacefully so that no one area overshadows the others. I suggest making a weekly list of your non-negotiables—such as activities that bring you joy, connection, or rest—to ensure they have a place on your calendar.

E – Expect Excellence

Nothing is perfect in this life; we recognize this even more as we grow older. This, however, doesn’t stop us from wanting to achieve greatness in our lives. Alter your thinking to categorize excellence as a mindset. A belief that bringing your best self to the table is not because you need to be perfect but because doing your best here and now is what is important. This principle reminds us to embrace challenges, learn from setbacks, and never settle for mediocrity in areas that matter most to us.

In practice, expecting excellence in yourself means supporting yourself with the resources, habits, and environments that foster success and cultivating the willpower necessary to show up for yourself and others each and every day.

By de-linking the concepts of excellence and perfection, you set yourself up to grow, be challenged, and constantly become better and do better. Expecting excellence in yourself could be prioritizing fitness by joining a community class, seeking mentorship for a passion project, or simply keeping a curious, open mind. By expecting and executing excellence in yourself, you can learn to enable it in others.

Start small: Choose one area of your life to focus on and create small, consistent daily habits to support it. Making a conscious effort to develop yourself and your character is imperative to upholding excellence in your life.

L – Live Your Purpose

Knowing your purpose in life can be difficult, but honing in on it is possible despite times of change and reaching new milestones. Sure, narrowing down exactly what you want your life to be at any age can be challenging, but try to see it from the bigger picture.

What is important to you, what impact do you want to create, and how can you leverage your innate talents and gifts to do that? Living with purpose transforms everyday moments into something deeply fulfilling and meaningful; it can fuel a life well-lived.

Living your purpose doesn’t require overhauling your life to fit a grandiose vision. That just defeats the point. Rather, it is meant to infuse meaning into what you already do. Maybe it’s connecting with your community, creating art, or mentoring younger generations; regardless, identifying what energizes and fulfills you helps you execute your purpose. Once you’ve discovered that “why,” make space for it regularly. That can be done through something as accessible as daily reflections. Purpose (and expecting excellence) doesn’t mean perfection, it is more about alignment and intention.

L – Love, Not Fear

Love is the compass that guides the WELL Method. When fear dominates, it manifests as stress, comparison, and anxiety. Choosing love means operating from a place of abundance and gratitude rather than scarcity and worry.

Letting love lead might mean forgiving yourself when you make mistakes, focusing on meaningful relationships instead of superficial expectations, or showing kindness to yourself and others. More importantly, it requires conscious response over reaction.

When a loved one hurts your feelings, you may feel triggered and want to lash out. Life gives us plenty of opportunities to be triggered! Responsiveness, not reactiveness, is choosing how we want to respond to any situation instead of giving a knee-jerk reaction to being triggered. That is where love comes in. It is when we step back and allow our conscious thinking to drive how we respond to the situation. Give people the benefit of the doubt and see things from their perspective before jumping to conclusions. Love transforms routine actions into moments of profound connection and joy.

Thriving with the WELL Method

The beauty of the WELL Method is in its flexibility. It adapts to your unique goals and values, no matter where you are or your belief system. Whether you want to nurture relationships, reignite a forgotten passion, or embrace healthier habits, the WELL Method provides a practical, actionable path forward.

Aging with grace and purpose requires being engaged with life on every level. The WELL Method encourages personal responsibility, but it also acknowledges that none of us are perfect. Progress, not perfection, is the goal. Combined with self-awareness of yourself and consideration for others, it’s a powerful tool to cultivate harmony and meaning in life.

As you navigate life’s ever-changing seasons—especially in the brittle cold of winter—let the WELL Method serve as your guide. It’s more than an acronym; it’s an invitation to live with intention, pursue your best self, celebrate the life you’ve built, and create a brighter, more balanced tomorrow.

Jaya Jaya Myra is a thought leader in consciousness, spirituality, and mind-body wellness. She is the author of The Soul of Purpose: A Step-By-Step Approach to Create A Purpose-Driven, Healthy Life and Vibrational Healing: Attain Balance & Wholeness * Understand Your Energetic Type

By Ruben Figueres

As actor Edward Norton says at the beginning of our film Longevity Hackers, the quest for immortality has been a recurrent topic throughout history. But this idea is now becoming a possibility instead of a wish.

Immortality per se is not realistic today and even in the near future. Indeed, accidents can happen, and diseases can take their toll. And we are far from bringing dead matter back to life.

However, aging is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. The deterioration our bodies and minds suffer from damage accumulation and loss of regenerative capacity makes us old and fragile, making us more susceptible to disease and, ultimately, death.

Production scenes from Longevity Hackers. (Clockwise from top left) Tony Robbins during his interview for the film in West Palm Beach, John Salley (interviewed and part of the production team), Michal Siewierski (director) and Mark Cuban in Los Angeles, Michal Siewierski, Ruben Figueres (producer) and Steve Aoki preparing the interview in Las Vegas, Ruben Figueres, and Edward Norton (narrator) during the recording of the narration in Los Angeles

We have made significant advances in medicine that extend the human lifespan, allowing us to treat diseases and fix cellular damage. Still, to defeat aging, we need one more step: prevention.

If we don’t allow our bodies and minds to get old, we will not have to treat those diseases in the first place. The longevity industry intends to extend the health span, which is the number of healthy years a person will live.

The goal is that we reach 90, feeling like 40, and not that we get to 100 in a wheelchair plugged into a machine. An inevitable consequence of increasing the health span is that we will live longer. If our bodies and minds feel like 40 when we are 90, it is logical to expect that we will have many years ahead of us to live. The whole longevity industry is focused on getting to this point.

A Longevity Hacker is anybody who alters their habits or makes any sacrifices to achieve a higher level of health. There are many levels of Longevity Hackers, from a basic one, like somebody who loves smoking and quits it because it’s bad for their health.

Then there are professional hackers, like Bryan Johnson, the tech millionaire who has devoted his life to defeating aging and started a movement called “Don’t Die,” where he does everything humanly possible to stay young forever, including spending $2MM per year in doctors, and treatments. Bryan keeps monk-like routines to support his sleep and exercise, eats the same food every day and simultaneously (a formula created by doctors that provides the precise amount of nutrients that his body needs), and every aspect of his life has one goal: Don’t Die.

The difference between a beginner Longevity Hacker and a more advanced professional is how important it is for their health and how much they are willing to sacrifice to maintain it.

Many billionaires have been pouring money and resources into solving this aging problem. An important point in this fight is to start considering Aging as a disease, which would allow more research and government funding to be applied. If we do so, our quest is how to treat aging, which people like Jeff Bezos, Peter Thiel, Sam Altman, Mark Zuckerberg, and many others are trying to accomplish.

Scientists have concluded that it is possible to treat and stop aging. So, we know that we are very close to the point where we can get our cells to stop aging and getting weaker. Several research projects are in human trials, and we might be able to get there in the next 5-15 years.

Technology is advancing exponentially due to the irruption of AI, but like everything in science, it requires lots of testing, which takes time. There are multiple parts to get to this point, like the Gene Therapies that will allow us to modify our DNA or the Telomere research (Telomeres are the extremes of the chromosomes, which become shorter over time, reducing the regeneration capacity of the cells) which is looking for ways to increase their length. Like these, many promising technologies and treatments will make Longevity Hacking more effective.

But while these are all in the near future, there are several things we can do now that don’t cost money, just effort. And depending on how much effort we put in, we can live healthier lives.

The importance of staying healthy now is higher than ever because if we maintain a healthy body over the next decade, when all these advances become a reality, we will be able to “freeze” our age at that point. And the younger our bodies are, that is what we will have for the next few years until the next big milestone becomes a reality, the reversing of the biological age. Biological age is the age that our body and mind feel like compared to our chronological age, which is determined by our birth date.

There are ways to measure a person’s biological age, although it is still a complicated topic because there are many factors to determine it, and it is still difficult to measure all of them. A person can have a young cardiovascular age, but an old bone structure or certain muscles may be younger than others, or the elasticity of the skin, or the hair, or the vision… but we will eventually get to a way of measuring all of these individually in an accurate way and be able to approach each one with the upcoming technologies.

But right now, there are four things that we can do to be as healthy as possible that take effort but not money or technology:

Nutrition

Our society has evolved to a point where the goal of nutrition is not providing the body with the nutrients it needs; instead, it is about providing short-term taste satisfaction. So, the majority of the consumption of the average person is foods that are not good for the body but provide some sort of short-term taste pleasure, like sugars, alcohol, processed foods, and fats. If we had to design perfect nutrition for our bodies, first, we would need a measuring device that told each individual what their needs for the day are for each vitamin, mineral, calorie…

Once we know exactly what we need, we could have a doctor, a nutritionist, or a machine prepare a food mix that contains exactly that. As you can imagine, this is impossible today and not viable for most people. But there is a lot of room for improvement between this extreme top-case scenario and the opposite, which is eating all the poisons we consume daily. If we focus on eliminating sugars, alcohol, saturated fats, and processed foods, we are taking giant steps. We can take it to the next level by focusing on increased protein and upping our levels of electrolytes, amino acids, and vitamins via natural foods or supplements. In general, paying attention to nutrition is a key element to longevity and health.

Exercise

In health terms, movement is our friend. Advanced societies are becoming more sedentary, which greatly affects overall health. We should try to move as much as possible, even just walking. Ideally, we would want to do enough cardiovascular exercise, where we push our heart to work harder, like running, cycling, rowing…, combined with muscular exercise, like weight training, to maintain muscular mass. As we age, we lose muscle mass and strength, which results in weakness and a higher risk of injuries and disease. If we can maintain that strength through training and protein consumption, we reduce and delay the effects of aging.

Sleep

Sleep could be the most underrated factor for our health and the most important one. According to Bryan Johnson (the professional Biohacker), sleep is the most important thing we can do to live a healthier life. During sleep, our body repairs any damages done during the day, and all the regeneration happens. Getting enough quality sleep, in terms of deep sleep, REM, and overall rest, is essential. Depending on each person’s age and activity habits, there are different recommendations, but a good general rule of thumb is 8 hours of sleep with 2 hours of REM and 1 hour of deep sleep for an average 50-year-old.

We often put sleep in second place to other priorities, as we stay late for work or social reasons and wake up early without having the right amount of sleep. Several factors affect sleep quality, like eating dinner late and close to bedtime, drinking alcohol at night, or being exposed to blue light screens right before sleeping. These factors will dramatically reduce the quality of our sleep and considerably affect our deep sleep and REM amounts. Paying attention to the quality of our sleep involves a certain degree of effort since we have to alter our social habits, but it is probably the most important thing we can do. Several sleep monitoring devices are available for the consumer, like smart rings, watches, or wristbands, that can help us keep track of it and improve it.

Mental Health

This element includes stress reduction, emotional balance, and purpose or motivation. Stress is a huge contributor to aging and accelerates the damage process; therefore, managing stress becomes crucial not only for health but also for overall happiness. Emotional balance is also crucial in relationships and social interactions.

As we have seen in some blue zones, people surrounded by love and big social circles tend to live longer. This is, in part, because it contributes to motivation and a sense of purpose in life. People with a strong sense of purpose wake up every day excited about life, send signals to their bodies that they want to live, and the body tries to adapt. We see this inversed when older people lose this excitement and give up on life; they usually die shortly after.

If we take these four factors seriously, we will dramatically increase our chances of delaying the aging process. This will bring us closer to the moment technology allows us to stop it effectively. If we want to become more advanced Longevity Hackers, we can add some current treatments and lifestyle changes.

It is important to note the implications of the longevity industry for humans. Traditionally, we accepted aging and its consequences as inevitable, just like death. At that point, it was easy or understandable for a person to make decisions that harmed their health, like smoking, because it did not make a big difference whether they lived 10 years more or 10 years less.

What we have in front of us can change the perspective of many people since we are no longer looking at living 70 to 90 years. We could be looking at 120 or 130, and if we stay alive that long, then technology will have evolved, too, which could extend it much longer and be healthier. Now, the new decision is for a person to live to 70 or 80 years living a careless life, or 120,200 or possibly much more, without the aging inconveniences. This perspective will affect how many people decide to live their lives.

For the past four years, I have been researching this issue and interviewing top scientists, experts, and celebrities. I compiled that information in a documentary called Longevity Hackers, narrated by Edward Norton and featuring Tony Robbins, Mark Cuban, Steve Aoki, Tony Hawk, Peter Diamandis, and many more.

When I started, I would consider myself a beginner Longevity Hacker who exercised regularly, ate semi-healthy, drank socially, and slept poorly. Through this journey, I have discovered a brand-new motivation for life and increased excitement for everything I do since it has the potential of a much longer expiration date. I don’t consider myself a professional biohacker yet, but I would certainly think I have an advanced level. My health and energy levels are higher than ever, and my passion for life and happiness has reached a new dimension.

Ruben Figueres is an entrepreneur who founded several companies in the advertising, tourism, and cycling industries. His passion for health and fitness led him to produce the documentary film Longevity Hackers, which features Tony Robbins, Mark Cuban, Steve Aoki, Tony Hawk, and many others and is narrated by Edward Norton.

Links: To Watch it:  Apple TV For further information: www.longevityhackers.tv

By Roland Brown

Two wheels and an engine.

The basic ingredients of the motorcycle are so simple, but its attraction, stronger than ever after more than a century of relentless development, can be hard to pin down.

Part of the reason for this is that motorcycling is so many things to so many different people. More than just a transport mode, it can symbolize freedom, resistance, independence, and counter-culture. A motorbike can mean an ancient Scott roadster, a simple Velocette single, a modern MotoGP racer, or a fully equipped grand tourer.

Since the invention of the engine, people have been intrigued and excited by the hundreds of ways it can be adapted to propel objects at ever-increasing speeds, and none has thrilled and fascinated more than the motorcycle, which represents mechanical power at its most raw, pure, and existential.

Triumph’s Bonneville Bobber appealed to the café racer crowd with its performance and neat styling, including hardtail-look rear end. Photo: Triumph/Roland Brown

The motorcycle has evolved dramatically from its first development by Daimler in 1885 to the superbikes of the 21st century. Landmarks in engineering and design have changed the technology and anatomy of the motorcycle, whether it is for record-breaking sport and racing, or models used for working, or indeed for pleasure.

When Paul Daimler rode his engineer father Gottlieb’s new contraption named Einspur – “One track” – around the countryside near Stuttgart in Germany on 10 November 1885, he was taking what is commonly accepted to be the world’s first ride on a motorbike.

Bikes have come a long way from those days to the present, when even ordinary middleweights exceed 100mph (161 kph) reliably and with ease. But when comparing the earliest bikes of the last century to the sophisticated, powerful machines of today, in many respects, it’s noticeable not how much but how little motorcycles have changed. Of course, there is a huge difference between the 1901 New Werner and Honda’s latest MotoGP racer – but the two are unmistakably related.

The first ever motorcycle was Gottlieb Daimler’s Einspur. The fastest ever bike was Rocky Robinson’s 376mph (605kph) Ack Attack streamliner – as seen at Ace Café in Hollywood and the Nürburgring.

But if it is the machines that form the outline of the motorcycling picture, then it’s the people who design, build, repair, and modify them; who pose, commute, or tour on them; and who race, crash, fight, or save lives on them who add the color. This might be Pecco Bagnaia pulling a wheelie on his factory Ducati to Marlon Brando leaning on his Triumph Thunderbird in The Wild One, and from a worker delivering medical supplies in the African bush to an anonymous Sunday-morning superbiker cranking a Honda Fireblade through a turn. Different people, in very different situations, united by a shared appreciation of two wheels and an engine.

Californian firm Zero has produced many of the best electric bikes, including this 2017-model SR roadster.
Photo: Zero/Roland Brown

There is a lot more to motorcycling than simply riding a bike. Owning and using a motorcycle gives a different perspective on life than the average pedestrian or car driver.

Depending on the rider, the machine, and the moment, you are an individual – free, rebellious, fast-moving, glamorous, somehow above the dull troubles of the normal world. You’re also mistrusted, maybe persecuted, even pitied, always vulnerable. Those shared emotions produce a bond between motorcyclists that can sometimes bridge the huge gaps between the many different types of riders. Many times, the owner of a superbike has pulled up to help a novice with a broken moped. However, within the two-wheeled scene is a vast number of diverse subgroups and cultures, reflecting the variety of experiences that motorcycling offers.

Demographics led to motorcycling’s change of emphasis early in the new millennium. A generation of riders had been brought up on sports bikes. Now they were older, looking for more comfort and a fresh challenge, and found both with adventure bikes.

BMW had started the trend towards large-capacity dual-purpose machines in 1980 with the R80G/S, a 798cc flat-twin that had been an unexpected hit and the basis for two Paris-Dakar Rally victories. By 2004, the GS boxer family had evolved to create the R1200GS, which combined sharp styling, 100bhp performance, comfort and ride-anywhere ability.

The appeal of this was vividly illustrated by Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman, whose Long Way Round and Long Way Down television series aboard big GS Adventure boxers inspired many trips and countless dreams of adventure. As the GS models topped sales charts worldwide, rival manufacturers joined in, notably fast-growing Austrian firm KTM with its Adventure and Super Adventure families.

Manufacturers also embraced motorcycling’s diversity, producing retro roadsters and café racers, such as resurgent Triumph’s Bonnevilles and Thruxton. Bikes’ performance continued to improve, with some superbikes’ outputs rising past 200bhp, but chassis advances were less obvious than in previous decades.

The progress was in electronics, with semi-active suspension, traction control and cornering ABS bringing new levels of comfort and safety. This helped keep showrooms busy, but motorcycling had lost its rebellious image and its appeal to an increasingly risk-averse youth. Harley-Davidson’s annual production had grown to almost 350,000 by 2006 – but the firm’s aging customer base was a time bomb that exploded with the global financial crisis when sales and profitability plummeted. All manufacturers suffered but most recovered quickly, notably Yamaha, who returned to form with lively and competitively priced bikes, led by the MT-07, a 689cc parallel twin.

New riders were attracted by the rise of hipster and café-racer culture, driven by websites such as Bike EXIF and centered on festivals, including the Glemseck 101, held near Stuttgart. Younger riders’ preference for lifestyle over performance facilitated the growing influence of China, whose manufacturers arrived not with superior, race-developed engineering, like the Japanese decades earlier, but with sound bikes at competitive prices.

Chinese firms also bought and revived brands, including Benelli of Italy, and supplied engines or near-complete bikes for many smaller marques. India’s huge market brought great success to Royal Enfield, and Indian firms relaunched old British favorites Norton and BSA.

Motorcycling’s other trend was an inevitable move away from fossil fuels. Specialist firms Energica and Zero led the way with electric bikes, and others joined in, including BMW with scooters and Harley-Davidson with the striking LiveWire.

Sales of electric motorcycles remained low compared to cars due mainly to the difficulty of providing adequate performance and range without excessive weight and cost. However, with firms like Honda, Kawasaki, and Ducati increasingly committed to electric and hybrid technology and continuing research into biofuels and other alternatives to petrol, motorcyclists can face the future with optimism.

Roland Brown is the author of The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Motorcycles: The complete guide to motorbikes and biking, with an A–Z of marques and more than 850 superb photographs  has four decades’ experience as a motorcycle journalist. He was deputy editor of Bike magazine before turning freelance and is the author of ten previous books about motorcycles. As a racer, he was a top six finisher in world F1 and British Superstock and Superbike rounds, and rode in endurance events including the Bol d’Or and Le Mans 24 Hours.

By Jill Palmquist

The standard advice around successful aging is no secret. Eat well. Work out. Drink plenty of water. Get enough sleep. All of these guidelines are true. We do need to do the fundamentals. But going through the motions isn’t enough…or at least shouldn’t be. We need to do them fully awake and aware of what a gift it is to do all of them.

I’ve just spent the past nine years helping my team put together a coffee table book that I think of as a love letter to life. It was an exercise in humility. What images and words should we choose to capture the glory and brevity of our time on earth?

One of my favorite photos in the book is a close-up of an older gentleman. His face is alight in joy and wonder and anticipation. His weathered hands are in the frame, buttoning up a bright yellow rain jacket. He is outside, clearly ready to embrace the day, however cool or rainy it may be. Superimposed on the image are the words, “Every age is the best age.”

I believe this with everything in me. Healthy aging is all about seizing the day every day, wringing the potential from it, and letting the awe wash over us. It’s about being willing to grow old (after all, that’s what it takes to live a long life!) and truly living (not just existing) while we’re alive.

We don’t get any do-overs in this life—and we’re here for a short time. Why should any of us settle for an existence that is any less than exhilarating? Yes, owning our wellness is essential. Doing the basics is important. But we must go deeper to optimize the miracle of being here right now. Here are a few mind shifts and habits that will give you what your body, mind, and soul need to feel truly alive and well as each year passes.

Honor the genius of your body

Know that your body is a sophisticated and fascinating machine. Take time every day to become more “at home” in it and honor everything it can do. Move your body intentionally, joyfully, and every day if possible. Find a way to move that feels great to you. This might mean dancing to joyful music, joining a group fitness class, or taking your dog for a long walk or jogging. How you move doesn’t matter. Just move. Your heart and lungs and limbs and muscles will thank you later (and now).

Make mealtimes a feast for your senses

How long has it been since you’ve savored the tangy-sweet flavor of a cherry tomato or the satisfying crunch of sourdough crust? When was the last time you breathed deeply to appreciate the scent of a baked good rising in your oven? Eating—one of the greatest pleasures in life—is an even more joyful experience when we mindfully enjoy our meals with all our senses. Take your time when you eat, experiencing all the flavors and textures so you can savor every last bite. Meditate on the love that went into the meal’s preparation and the gratitude you feel receiving it.

Take comfort in rituals

Establish some everyday (or as-needed) rituals that help you live more intentionally and mindfully and bring you daily comfort. They can be as simple as making your bed each day or as personal as a daily appointment for prayer or reflection. A few ideas:

• Phone call catch-ups. It’s easy to lose touch with friends. Don’t. Give someone you love a weekly or monthly call (or, better yet, a Skype call) to connect and share your latest news. Clear your schedule. Make it an occasion. Brew some coffee and put on your cozy socks.
• Daily journaling. Even if you write down only one thing you’re grateful for or your favorite moment from the day, this ritual helps you see the abundance in your life.
• Afternoon tea. Simmer some herbs in a pot. Pour it into a lovely cup. Just sit for 10 minutes, sipping slowly and clearing your mind of stress.

Find (and invest in) your tribe

Life is richer when you maintain strong, loving relationships with people who really get you! If you haven’t already done so, find some folks to “do life” alongside. Let them into your heart, be vulnerable, and make sure you show up for them as well. It’s the depth, warmth, and integrity of those relationships that matter.

Listen to what your soul is telling you

Every day, take some time to pause and get still. Give your intuition and your subconscious a chance to speak. This is an important time because it allows you to address big questions you may otherwise not hear or acknowledge. It’s a soul excavation of sorts, and over time, you will become clearer about your desires, dreams, insights, and the next steps you should take to achieve them.

Look for the good in devastating situations

As wonderful as life can be, it also inevitably brings pain and grief. In the aftermath of trauma or tragedy, look for the good as you begin to heal. Tough times can serve as crucibles for learning, transformation, and purpose. They teach us important things, like how to survive and how strong we are. And often, we can use what we learn to help others navigate their own crises.

Stay awake. Make some plans

Don’t sit and wait for life to happen. Time passes all too quickly, whether you make it count or not. But you’ll have more fun and be more fulfilled if you approach each day intentionally. Make some plans. Do something. Don’t waste it. Think deeply about what will bring you not just momentary happiness but true fulfillment over the long haul. (Your soul excavation work will help inform these insights.) Then, go out and make the life you’ve envisioned a reality.

A mysterious clock started the day you entered the world. You really have no idea when it will stop. What you do with that knowledge will determine how you choose to live life every day and at every age. Choose mindfully, wisely, and in perpetual gratitude.

Jill Palmquist is vice president and chief storyteller of luxury lifestyle and fitness brand Life Time, Inc., and author of the new coffee table book In This Lifetime, published by Wise Ink. For further information, visit In This Lifetime.