(realized that I posted this in another community in October but never in mine, so here we go :) ). Confession: I have a hard time seeing myself in the future (getting older) while at the same time, even though I think about mortality on the daily, I have a hard time actually picturing myself dying. I look at people that are older and wonder "I wonder if I'll make it to that age"--the sense of time is just something that seems elusive...real, but not. BUT, here I am, living and getting older (I'm grateful!)...and this got me thinking about living in a way that truly embodies wellbeing... which got me thinking further about Blue Zones and how the individuals in these areas seem to REALLY be living--they're not just physically healthy, but they seem to really be living in a wholesome way. So..I wanted to know more and learn how I can embrace the aging process in a more wholesome way. And I want to hear from you...how are you approaching this whole living thing? Here are some things that I learned about these Blue Zones: 💫Blue Zones are regions where people consistently live to be 100+ while maintaining good health, strong minds, and deep connections. What Blue Zones have in common: 🥗 Eat mostly plants (like 90%): Meals are rich in beans, veggies, nuts, and whole grains. Meat is more of a side dish than the star of the show. They get their protein, but they get it through mostly plants! 🚶 Move naturally : Daily life includes walking, gardening, and doing things by hand. Functional movements. 💞 Stay connected: Strong social bonds, family ties, and a sense of belonging are central to their health--this has become increasingly important to me as I've aged.. 🧘 Find purpose and peace: Each person has a reason to get up in the morning. They practice slowing down, whether through prayer, community, or mindfulness. 🍷 Enjoy life in moderation: Many share meals, laughter, and even a small glass of wine with friends. Balance is key! (side note: although people have said that a glass of wine improves heart health--it's a depressant so it 'relaxes' the body in some ways--it is still a toxin for the brain, even in small doses--so I wonder if there are other factors at play here)

This past week we stealthily crossed the 100 member milestone and I'm so so excited for it! A couple of you reached out about it (thank you!!) and @Chris Wendt 's post here100-members means so so much to me... This milestone belongs to all of you! It truly does! Thank you for showing up, contributing your voices, sharing your experiences, and helping create this space into what it is today. I never anticipated how this little corner of skool was going to take shape and I am so so truly thankful for it and for you all. A gift that I never knew was needed and didn't see coming. My heart is overflowing with joy. The connections formed and nurtured, the conversations sparked, and the growth truly wouldn’t exist without your willingness to engage and support one another and me. This community is possible because of you-your presence, insight, and energy matter more than you know. Thank you for making it the special space that it is. Here’s to what we’ve built together so far, and to everything still ahead!!!!💛 Excited!!!!!