🗞 LiveTo120 Weekly Newsletter | Edition No. 009
The #1 longevity newsletter on substack for actionable insights on nutrition & wellness, physical & mental fitness + the latest trends in longevity.
Wednesday May 3rd, 2023
Hello Friends,
Welcome to the ninth edition of the #LiveTo120 Newsletter - we hope you’re enjoying your subscription to our Life Aesthetics substack and we have another awesome weekly newsletter for you ahead.
This weeks edition is packed with some 💭 perspective-altering insight.
We start off in our nutrition section swallowing some hard truth’s about the digestion process to understand how the food we eat literally becomes us. Then we’ll grab our paintbrushes and unlock the creative artist within with a mind opening metaphor that you may have never considered when you hit the gym for your next training session.
Matt certainly takes the credit this week for dishing out a delicious lunch (or dinner) recipe that hits the spot for those of you looking for a nutrient packed meal idea and Jodii shares some magnificent insight into a mineral you may be critically missing from your diet.
We truly hope you leave this weeks newsletter thinking differently about your body and it’s incredible capabilities and inspired to take action to #LiveTo120.
We're grateful for each and every one of you.
Enjoy the edition, and check your inbox next week for edition No. 010.
Sending the best of vibes,
-Jodii & Matthew
📍 Before we dive in, take a moment to make yourself comfortable and relaxed.
⏳ We have about 10-15 minutes of reading ahead, but if you prefer, there's also an option to listen to this episode via audio at the top of the newsletter.
▶️ You can even try listening on 2x speed for a speedy and efficient experience.
🥞 Nutrition & Diet "You are what you eat; but how exactly does Food become us?"
It's truly astonishing to think about how many of us go about our daily lives, enjoying meal after meal, without fully grasping the incredible journey our food takes as it travels through our bodies.
From the moment we're born, we are essentially an ever-evolving collection of cells, tissues, and organs, all of which are built and sustained by the nutrients we obtain from the food we consume.
Our growth, development, and overall well-being are inextricably linked to the complex, fascinating process of digestion that enables us to extract the energy and nutrients we need to thrive.
By exploring this intricate journey, we can develop a deeper appreciation for our body's amazing inner workings and our role in nurturing its well-being.
Our journey begins right in our mouths, where the seemingly simple act of chewing serves as a crucial component of digestion.
Chewing food not only mechanically breaks it down into smaller, more manageable pieces, but it also mixes the food with saliva, which contains enzymes such as amylase and lipase that initiate the breakdown of carbohydrates and fats, respectively.
Furthermore, proper chewing stimulates the release of hormones that signal our brain to prepare the stomach for the incoming meal, thus setting the stage for optimal digestion.
It's important to remember that taking the time to chew thoroughly not only helps our digestion but also encourages mindful eating, allowing us to savor the flavors and textures of our food.
Once we've taken the time to properly chew and savor our food, we swallow it, setting our meal off on a fascinating voyage down the esophagus, a muscular tube that connects our mouth to the stomach.
This journey is aided by peristalsis - a series of coordinated muscle contractions that propel the food forward, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted passage to its next destination: the stomach.
Interestingly, the esophagus contains two sphincters, one at the top and one at the bottom, which act as gates, preventing food from traveling in the wrong direction and safeguarding our airways.
Upon entering the stomach, the real magic begins.
Our food is met with gastric juices, a potent mixture of hydrochloric acid, enzymes like pepsin, and mucus that work together to break down proteins and other nutrients, transforming our meal into a partially digested substance called chyme.
This process not only helps to extract vital nutrients but also neutralizes potentially harmful bacteria and pathogens that may have hitched a ride with our food. Additionally, the stomach's powerful muscular contractions further mix and break down the food, ensuring that even the most stubborn components are thoroughly processed and prepared for absorption.
The chyme then makes its way into the small intestine, the real powerhouse of nutrient absorption. It's here that the majority of the nutrients our bodies need are absorbed into the bloodstream. The small intestine is divided into three sections: the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum.
Each section plays a distinct role in breaking down and absorbing different types of nutrients, with the help of digestive enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver. These enzymes and bile further break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, making it easier for the small intestine to absorb them efficiently.
Within the small intestine, tiny finger-like projections called villi and microvilli dramatically increase the surface area available for absorption.
These structures are crucial for efficiently extracting essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from our food, as they allow for a greater contact area between the chyme and the intestinal lining.
Once absorbed, the nutrients are transported into the bloodstream, where they're distributed throughout the body to provide energy, build and repair tissues, and support countless bodily functions.
After the small intestine has absorbed most of the nutrients, the remaining undigested material moves into the large intestine, or colon.
Here, the colon takes on the important task of absorbing water and electrolytes, transforming the undigested material into a more solid form: 💩.
The colon is also home to trillions of beneficial bacteria that comprise our gut microbiome.
These microbes play a critical role in breaking down any remaining undigested food and producing important vitamins, such as vitamin K and some B vitamins.
They also contribute to a healthy immune system and help maintain the integrity of the gut lining.
Finally, the stool is stored in the rectum until it's time to be eliminated through the anus, marking the end of the digestive journey.
This process is regulated by the body's intricate nervous system, which coordinates the contraction and relaxation of muscles in the 🍑 to facilitate the smooth and controlled release of waste.
It's essential to recognize that the nutrients we extract from the food we eat literally become a part of us.
From the moment we're born, our growth and development are fueled by the nutrients we obtain from our diet. The proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals we consume are utilized by our bodies to build and repair cells, tissues, and organs.
Our hair, skin, bones, and muscles are all composed of nutrients that were once a part of the food we consumed. In essence, we are a complex, ever-changing tapestry woven together by the nutrients derived from the meals we enjoy.
Now that you understand the process of digestion, you ought to appreciate your body's incredible ability to transform the food you eat into the energy and nutrients you need to flourish.
It's a powerful reminder that taking care of our digestive system through mindful eating, proper chewing, and a balanced diet is essential for overall health and well-being.
So, the next time you sit down for a meal, remember the amazing journey your food is about to embark on, and honor the intricate symphony of digestion that takes place within you.
💣 Knowledge Bomb - "I sh*t you not, you may not know these 10 surprising facts about 💩."
💩 Color Codes: The color of your poop can reveal a lot about your health. While brown is the most common color due to the presence of bile, green stool can be a result of consuming leafy greens or even a faster transit time through the digestive system. Red or black stool, however, might indicate bleeding and should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
💨 Fart Filtering: The average person passes gas 14-23 times a day! Most of the gases responsible for the odor are produced by the bacteria in our large intestine breaking down undigested food particles.
🦠 Bacterial Bonanza: Approximately 50% of your stool's dry weight consists of bacteria – both living and dead. These bacteria play essential roles in digestion and maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.
🌍 Cultural Context: Did you know that in some countries, examining one's poop is considered a crucial aspect of maintaining good health? In traditional Chinese medicine, for example, the color, consistency, and odor of stool are believed to offer insight into a person's overall well-being.
🚽 Flushing Away History: The first known flushable toilet dates back to 1596 when Sir John Harington, a godson of Queen Elizabeth I, invented a water closet with a raised cistern that used a small amount of water to flush away waste.
🐘 Elephantine Elimination: Elephants have the largest poop of any land animal. They can produce over 220 pounds (100 kg) of dung per day! This waste plays a significant role in the ecosystem, providing food for insects and helping disperse seeds.
🚶♂️The Bristol Stool Scale: Developed in 1997 at the University of Bristol, the Bristol Stool Scale is a medical tool used to classify human feces into seven categories based on shape and consistency. It helps healthcare professionals diagnose and treat various bowel-related issues.
💧 Hydration Matters: Dehydration can affect your poop, leading to constipation and hard, dry stools. Staying properly hydrated is essential for maintaining healthy bowel movements.
🍍 Pineapple Power: Consuming pineapple or pineapple juice can make your poop smell sweeter! Pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain, which breaks down proteins and may help reduce the odor of feces.
🏃♀️ The "Runner's Trots": Many long-distance runners experience the sudden urge to poop during their runs. This phenomenon, known as "runner's trots," is believed to be caused by a combination of factors, including increased gastrointestinal blood flow, hormonal changes, and the physical jostling of the intestines.
There you have it, our 10 most surprising poop facts that we uncovered during our digestion research that will undoubtedly make for some fascinating conversation starters at the dinner table.
📝 Featured Recipe - “Chickpea and Vegetable Quinoa Bowl with Spicy Mustard Dressing”
When it comes to flexible dieting, it’s often the baked treats like cupcakes & cookies, pancakes or '“Pro-Yo” that get all the attention, so this week I’m hitting the garden to share with all of you an easy to make lunch that has a gourmet touch to it.
I really love this dish because the structure is so versatile.
The base of quinoa and chickpea (both high protein) could be easily swapped for rice and or lentils + the vegetables I selected can be subbed for your personal favourites.
While the dish on it’s own is technically vegetarian, I’ve added into the recipe a little chicken breast in the event you need to hit your protein targets.
Personally, this is a meal I’d love to make for my lunches (if my workout has aleady been completed as the meal is higher in fibre) or use on a meal plan for a full week of dinners.
It’s super macro friendly and jam-packed with nutrients, enjoy!
Estimated macros per serving:
Calories: 467
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 17g
Fiber: 9g
Ingredients:
For the quinoa bowl:
1/8 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 medium red bell pepper, diced
60g broccoli florets
2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
3 oz grilled chicken breast, diced (optional for extra protein)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the spicy mustard dressing:
1 tbsp organic mustard
1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1/2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp honey or agave syrup (optional)
Pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce (adjust to your preferred spice level)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
In a small saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until quinoa is tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, cilantro, and diced grilled chicken breast.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey or agave syrup (if using), cayenne pepper or hot sauce, salt, and pepper to make the spicy mustard dressing.
Once the quinoa has cooled, add it to the medium mixing bowl with the vegetables, chickpeas, and grilled chicken. Pour the spicy mustard dressing over the quinoa and vegetables, and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the mixture to a bowl, and serve immediately.
This version has reduced carbs and increased protein, making it more macro-friendly. Enjoy!
🏋🏼 Movement & Fitness - “Exercise as an Art Form 🎨: Unlocking the Creative Potential of your Sets n' Reps.”
When we think of art, we often picture captivating paintings, mesmerizing sculptures, or spellbinding performances that stir our emotions and inspire our imaginations.
But what if I told you that exercise, specifically resistance training, could also be seen as an art form?
Much like traditional art, the longer we immerse ourselves in resistance training, the deeper our understanding and appreciation of its intricacies become.
For beginners, resistance training may appear to be a simple, straightforward activity. They may enter the gym, observe others, and attempt to replicate the movements they see.
However, as we grow in experience and knowledge, we begin to recognize that each exercise has its own unique nuances, and that our bodies are a canvas upon which we can create our own physical masterpiece.
Just as an artist carefully selects their brush strokes, colors, and techniques, seasoned gym-goers recognize the importance of angles, equipment, and intensity in sculpting their bodies.
They understand that the magic lies not only in the superficial appearance of an exercise but also in the muscle engagement, the range of motion, and the subtle adjustments that can dramatically impact results.
As our training journey progresses, we start to develop a deeper connection with our bodies, learning to truly feel the muscles we are working and to visualize the contractions and extensions that bring about growth and transformation.
We discover the beauty in challenging our muscles from various angles, utilizing different equipment, and experimenting with tempo and intensity, ultimately shaping our own unique training style.
In many ways, resistance training can be likened to the process of painting. An artist does not merely replicate what they see; instead, they interpret and express their vision through the careful application of color, texture, and technique.
Similarly, as we delve deeper into resistance training, we learn to look beyond the surface of an exercise and focus on the internal workings of our muscles and the specific adaptations we wish to achieve.
Just as no two paintings are identical, each individual's resistance training journey is a unique and personal expression of their goals, preferences, and creativity.
This realization can be incredibly empowering, as it allows us to approach our workouts with a sense of curiosity and exploration, continually refining our technique and discovering new ways to challenge and sculpt our bodies.
This artistic approach to resistance training encourages us to view our gym sessions as a form of self-expression and self-discovery, rather than merely a means to an end.
We learn to appreciate the process, finding joy in the experimentation and growth that come with continually pushing our physical boundaries and honing our craft.
Moreover, embracing the concept of exercise as an art form fosters a deeper connection between our minds and bodies.
As we become more in tune with our muscles, we develop a heightened sense of awareness that enables us to execute each movement with purpose and precision.
This mindful approach to training not only enhances our results but also fosters a greater sense of overall well-being.
Furthermore, recognizing the artistic nature of resistance training can open our minds to the limitless potential of our workouts.
By adopting a creative mindset, we can continually innovate and explore new exercises, techniques, and training methods that keep us engaged, motivated, and excited to push ourselves to new heights.
So, the next time you step into the gym, I encourage you to view your workout as an opportunity to unleash your inner artist.
Embrace the creativity and expression that come with resistance training, and treat your body as a canvas upon which you can paint your own unique vision of strength, beauty, and physical mastery.
Remember, the gym is your studio, the weights are your tools, and your body is the masterpiece you are continually refining and perfecting.
By viewing exercise as an art form, you can unlock the creative potential of resistance training and transform your workouts into a deeply rewarding and fulfilling experience.
💣 Knowledge Bomb - “100 GB of Muscle Memory”
Most of us have heard the term "muscle memory," but do we truly understand the science behind it?
Muscle memory is a fascinating phenomenon that plays a crucial role in our ability to learn and perform physical tasks and refers to our body's ability to remember and adapt to specific movement patterns, making it easier to regain lost strength and skill.
This process involves two primary components: motor learning and cellular memory.
Motor Learning is the process through which our brain and nervous system acquire and retain new motor skills. When we perform a new movement, our brain creates a neural pathway that connects the motor cortex (responsible for voluntary movement) to the muscles involved. As we practice the movement, these neural pathways become more efficient, allowing us to execute the task with greater ease and precision. This is why practice makes perfect!
Cellular Memory, or myonuclear memory, pertains to the actual muscle cells. When we engage in resistance training, our muscle fibers experience damage, triggering the release of satellite cells. These satellite cells donate their nuclei to the damaged muscle fibers, helping them repair and grow. Interestingly, even if we stop training and lose muscle mass, these additional nuclei remain in the muscle fibers. When we resume training, our muscles can grow more quickly because the additional nuclei are already present, facilitating a faster response to the training stimulus.
So, what does this mean for your meatsack?
Understanding muscle memory can be both motivating and reassuring.
If you've had to take a break from training due to injury, illness, or other life circumstances, rest assured that your hard work hasn't gone to waste.
Your body will remember your previous training, and with a little patience and persistence, you can regain your lost strength and skills more quickly than you might think.
For example: I havn’t regularly played basketball for almost 10 years, yet after just a few moments back on a court or with the ball in my hands and it’s near magical that I pick up pretty close to where I left off in my skillsets.
Embrace the power of muscle memory and let it serve as a reminder that our bodies are incredibly adaptive and resilient.
Remember, every rep, every set, and every workout is an investment in your physical mastery – an investment that your body will never forget.
🏋🏼♂️ Featured Workout - “The Artful Athlete” 🎨
Building off of our topics today on Exercise as an Art Form & Muscle Memory, here is a Full Body Workout (performed at home or in the gym) that I want for you to pay special attention to the cues I’m providing and see for yourself if you can change the lens to which you typically see your workout through.
Warm-up:
5 minutes of light cardio (jogging, jumping jacks (the best option), or jump rope)
Dynamic stretches for major muscle groups
Workout:
Perform 3-4 sets of each exercise with 60-90 seconds rest between sets.
Mindful push-ups (12-15 reps)
Focus on the mind-muscle connection, slowly lower your body and feel your chest and triceps muscles working.
Time-under-tension squats (10-12 reps)
Perform each rep with a 3-second eccentric (lowering) phase and a 2-second concentric (raising) phase to increase time under tension.
Unilateral dumbbell row (8-10 reps per arm)
Engage one side of the body at a time to improve muscle imbalances and overall performance.
Alternating front-to-side lunges (10 reps per leg)
Step forward into a front lunge, then step out to the side into a lateral lunge. This exercise targets multiple muscle groups and explores different angles.
Reverse-grip pull-ups or inverted rows (8-10 reps)
Change the grip to target different parts of your back muscles and enhance the mind-muscle connection.
Cable or resistance band triceps pushdown supersetted with an overhead extension (10-12 reps)
Combine two exercises in one to target the triceps from different angles and improve muscle activation.
Plank with leg lift (45-60 seconds)
Perform a plank and alternate lifting each leg, focusing on engaging the core and glutes.
While this workout isn’t complex in it’s nature, it’s rich with detail to which can often go overlooked if simply arriving to the gym to ‘get it over with’.
I want for all of you to begin seeing the vast depth to which exercise and training can become meditative and a place to express mental energy into physical form.
🧬 Supplementation & Alternative Medicine - “Magnificent Magnesium”
Let's talk about magnesium this week, a super-important mineral that many of us might not be getting enough of.
(I know we don’t, which is why I’m always making Matt stock up on it each month!)
It's a real powerhouse, helping out in over 300 different reactions in our bodies.
This includes making energy, building proteins, and keeping our muscles and nerves working smoothly. Despite how awesome it is, lots of people don't know much about magnesium and may be missing out on its benefits.
When we don't have enough magnesium, we can feel pretty 💩’y (to tie in Matt’s section earlier, lol).
Some signs of low magnesium levels are muscle cramps, feeling tired all the time, an uneven heartbeat, and even trouble sleeping. In the long run, not getting enough magnesium can increase our chances of developing chronic health issues like type 2 diabetes, weak bones, and heart problems.
A big reason why many of us don't get enough magnesium is that our diets just don't have enough magnesium-rich foods and also when we are under stress our bodies demand more magnesium thus depleting our stores.
To boost your magnesium intake, try eating more leafy greens (like spinach and Swiss chard), nuts and seeds (like almonds and pumpkin seeds), legumes (like black beans and lentils), and whole grains (like brown rice and quinoa).
ps. this is why we always add the longevity detox salad to our clients foundation meal plans as a staple meal.
Besides getting magnesium from food, taking supplements can help make sure we're getting enough of this amazing mineral.
There are different types of magnesium supplements, like magnesium citrate, magnesium oxide, and magnesium glycinate.
It's important to pick a high-quality supplement because not all magnesium types are absorbed by our bodies in the same way. Magnesium glycinate is known for being easy for our bodies to use and is less likely to cause tummy troubles.
When you're thinking about taking a magnesium supplement, make sure to pay attention to the right dosage.
The amount of magnesium we need every day depends on our age and if we're male or female. Adult men usually need 400-420 mg of magnesium each day, while adult women need 310-320 mg per day.
You may require more magnesium during periods of stress, when caffeine intake is high, during frequent exercise, before menstruation in women, and during pregnancy.
But everyone's different, so it's a good idea to check with your MD to get bloodwork analyzed and see how your body is operating under the hood.
Magnesium is amongst, if not the number 1 most super-important nutrient that many of us might not be getting enough of and one that you will notice an immediate difference when your intake is sufficient.
Make sure you don’t forget to begin adding magnesium-rich foods and or choosing a top-notch supplement to make sure your body has all the magnesium it needs to stay happy and healthy.
💣 Knowledge Bomb - “Some Vitamin’s Can’t Swim!”
When it comes to vitamins, it's not just about the specific types of vitamins that you take - it's also about understanding how they work in your body.
Two key distinctions are water-soluble vitamins and fat-soluble vitamins.
Here's what you need to know:
Water-soluble vitamins: These vitamins can swim, they dissolve in water and are easily absorbed into the bloodstream. Because they are not stored in the body, they need to be replenished regularly. Examples of water-soluble vitamins include vitamin C and the B vitamins (such as B12 and folate).
Fat-soluble vitamins: These vitamins suck at swimming, they dissolve in fat and are stored in the body's fatty tissue and liver. This means that they can build up in the body over time, which can be a good thing if you're not getting enough of them but a bad thing if you're getting too much. Examples of fat-soluble vitamins include vitamins A, D, E, and K.
So why does it matter which type of vitamin you're taking?
Well, for starters, water-soluble vitamins tend to be more easily excreted by the body if you consume too much, whereas fat-soluble vitamins can accumulate to toxic levels if taken in excess.
Additionally, some vitamins are more effective when taken with certain types of foods - for example, fat-soluble vitamins are more readily absorbed when consumed with fatty foods.
Understanding the differences between water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins can help you make more informed choices about which supplements to take and how to optimize your overall nutrition.
🧠 Personal Growth & Mental Health - “Peeling Back the Layers of Ego.” 🎭
The term "ego" often gets a bad rap, conjuring images of arrogance or self-importance.
Yet, the true nature of the ego is far more nuanced and complex.
It's not just about being full of oneself; the ego plays a significant role in shaping our identity, our relationships with others, and even our mental well-being.
Throughout history, the concept of ego has been explored and addressed in various religious and spiritual teachings.
For instance, in Buddhism, the idea of "anatta" or "no-self" emphasizes the impermanence and ever-changing nature of the ego. Similarly, in Hinduism, the concept of "Atman" encourages individuals to look beyond their ego-driven self-identities and connect with their true, divine nature.
In Christianity, the teachings of Jesus often emphasize the importance of humility and letting go of self-centeredness to cultivate a deeper connection with God.
So, what exactly is the ego?
At its core, the ego is the sense of "I" – our self-concept and how we perceive ourselves in relation to the world around us.
It's the lens through which we view our experiences and the stories we tell ourselves about who we are. Our ego creates a sense of identity by attaching to thoughts, beliefs, and external circumstances.
We might identify with our job title, our favorite sports team, or even our emotional states, like "I am depressed" or "I am a happy person."
The challenge lies in recognizing that our ego-driven identifications and attachments don't truly define us - they are merely constructs of our mind, and as such, they can be limiting and even harmful to our overall well-being.
When we become overly attached to these identifications, we risk becoming trapped in a cycle of mental dis-ease, as our sense of self becomes increasingly fragile and dependent on external factors.
One way to break free from this cycle is by cultivating self-awareness and learning to separate ourselves from our thoughts and ego-driven identifications.
Books like "The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle which I’ve recommended in a previous edition, offer valuable insights into this process, encouraging us to recognize that we are not our thoughts or the roles we play in life.
By developing this understanding, we can begin to unravel the layers of ego and experience a deeper connection with our true selves, free from the constraints of mental attachments.
This journey of self-discovery and self-awareness requires practice, patience, and a willingness to confront our own limitations.
Here are some practical actions that I’ve found incredible to help peel back the layers of ego and foster a more authentic, ego-free sense of self:
Cultivate mindfulness: Engage in daily mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, to help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgment. This will enable you to observe your ego-driven attachments and identifications more objectively.
Reflect on your identifications: Take time to reflect on the various roles and labels you've attached to yourself. Recognize that these identifications are not who you truly are, but rather transient aspects of your life experience. Be willing to let go of any identifications that no longer serve you or limit your growth.
Practice non-attachment: Learn to appreciate and enjoy the various aspects of your life without becoming overly attached to them. Embrace the impermanence of life and recognize that change is a natural part of the human experience.
Develop self-compassion: Be kind and gentle with yourself as you embark on this journey of self-discovery. Acknowledge that breaking free from ego-driven attachments can be challenging, and it's okay to feel vulnerable or uncertain along the way.
Discover your Clique: Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who are also on a path of personal growth and self-awareness. Share your experiences, learn from one another, and offer mutual support and encouragement.
By understanding the true nature of the ego and working to free ourselves from its limiting grasp, we can cultivate a more authentic and fulfilling sense of self.
Embracing this journey will not only bring greater peace and harmony to our own lives but also positively impact our relationships and interactions with others.
It’s important to never rush this practice.
Personal growth is a lifelong process, and as we continue to evolve and grow, our understanding of the ego and its role in our lives will deepen.
By peeling back the layers of ego, we can embrace our true selves and experience the freedom and joy that come with living an authentic, ego-free life.
💬 Quote of the Week
“Human beings suffer their own memory and imagination; that is they suffer that which does not exist.” – Sadhguru
📚 Book Recommendation
One of my favorite human beings on planet earth is Sadhguru.
His incredible book "Inner Engineering: A Yogi's Guide to Joy" is a remarkable piece of work that I wholeheartedly endorse for anyone seeking to enhance their inner well-being and unlock their true spiritual potential.
The book offers a practical, yet profound approach to self-transformation that can be implemented by anyone, regardless of their background or belief system.
Which I personally love as many other mystics and preachers identify with a sole operating system or belief system on the world that limits the scalability and reach of their message.
What sets "Inner Engineering" apart from other self-help books is its focus on the ancient science of yoga and its application to modern life.
Sadhguru provides readers with practical tools and techniques to cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and the world around them.
Through a series of guided meditations, yoga practices, and wisdom teachings, Sadhguru helps readers to tap into their inner source of strength, wisdom, and joy.
One of the most compelling aspects of this book is the way Sadhguru presents complex spiritual concepts in a simple, accessible manner.
He speaks directly to the reader, using clear language and relatable examples to illustrate his points. His approach is grounded in the practical realities of daily life, making it easy to apply his teachings to one's own circumstances.
Furthermore, "Inner Engineering" offers a unique perspective on the nature of happiness and fulfillment. Sadhguru posits that true joy is not something that can be found outside of oneself, but rather it is a state of being that arises from within.
By learning to cultivate a deeper sense of awareness and connection to oneself, readers can tap into an infinite wellspring of happiness and contentment.
This was a read that helped me deepen my understanding of myself and my place in the world. The insights and practices offer a powerful roadmap for self-transformation and personal growth, and his message of joy and connection is one that has resonated deeply with me and has stayed vibrant as an outward facing perspective on life itself.
📰 Top Headlines in Health & Culture
🗞 EctoLife - The World’s First Artificial Womb Facility
EctoLife is a concept design for a futuristic artificial womb facility powered by renewable energy which can incubate over 30,000 babies per year.
The introduction to this concept has sparked widespread debate and conversation about the implications of artificial wombs and the future of human reproduction.
While there are certainly advantages to the technology, such as providing infertile couples with the opportunity to conceive a child, the potential drawbacks must also be considered.
One of the biggest concerns is the possibility of creating a society where children are genetically engineered to possess certain traits, such as physical strength or intelligence, at the expense of others.
This could lead to a dangerous hierarchy where only those with the means to access this technology can afford to give their children the best possible start in life.
The idea of creating "designer babies" raises ethical questions that must be addressed as the technology continues to evolve.
Furthermore, the widespread use of artificial wombs could have profound implications for the traditional family structure and the role of women in society.
The ability to grow a baby outside of a woman's body could shift the balance of power in relationships, potentially making men feel more entitled to control the reproductive process.
Despite these concerns, there are certainly benefits to be gained from EctoLife's technology.
The ability to eliminate pregnancy complications and birth-related muscle contractions could be life-changing for many women.
Additionally, the opportunity to provide a sterile, infection-free environment for a developing baby could reduce the risk of illness or disease.
As with any new technology, there are both pros and cons to consider. It is important that we engage in thoughtful dialogue and critical analysis in order to determine the best path forward for humanity.
Ultimately, the decision to use artificial wombs will be up to individuals and society as a whole, and it is essential that we proceed with caution and mindfulness as we move into the future.
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We don’t talk about 💩 enough, despite the fact that everybody does it! Another diverse and enlightening newsletter, and cheers to helping minimize the 💩 stigma!