Younger U
Origin story: I'm in my 50s, and I've been lucky to have managed to maintain my fitness and youthful outlook. I was considering opening a gym to help others learn and try the uncommon methods I use, but realized it wasn't just physical fitness. Along with my unusual exercises, there was also play, encouraging learning and creativity, and the social benefits of group activity. I was driving along thinking about this one morning, and I saw a small building for rent on a busy road. I started to daydream about the idea, and think about what could I put on the outside of the small building to attract people. What did people want? To be stronger? Faster? Fitter? Younger? Younger! People want to be younger. Younger you? Younger U! Younger, as in feeling younger, happier, and more capable. U, as in University, and You, as in yourself and not someone else's version. A place to learn how to feel like a younger version of yourself, and actually become that.
I was really happy with the idea, and I turned the corner to continue my commute. On the same side of the street, I passed a building with the words "Anti-aging Institute" on the outside. I knew what it was - a place that offered surgery and other cosmetic techniques to make you look younger. Not for me. I knew that my Younger U idea could have an important place in the world, if only as a counterpoint and alternative for people who wanted to experience a deeper form of anti-aging.
I was really happy with the idea, and I turned the corner to continue my commute. On the same side of the street, I passed a building with the words "Anti-aging Institute" on the outside. I knew what it was - a place that offered surgery and other cosmetic techniques to make you look younger. Not for me. I knew that my Younger U idea could have an important place in the world, if only as a counterpoint and alternative for people who wanted to experience a deeper form of anti-aging.
Find your fountain of youth
Younger U is my set of proven tools that help you find your fountain of youth.
I believe youth is not a function of chronological age as much as it is function and attitude. If you can maintain your health, capabilities, and a curious and grateful spirit, you can feel young. We all know "old people" who inspire us because they don't seem "old" at all. The Baltimore Longitudinal Study on Aging appears to support this idea - for example, "the aim ... is to identify factors that distinguish extraordinary health at very advanced age from non-'ideal' aging". I believe youthful health as we age is possible for way more of us than society believes.
My wife and I met a wonderful couple this summer. Every morning in the warmer months they go slalom waterskiing, and they graciously took us along.
- Move
- Play
- Learn
- Create
- Share
- Appreciate
- Rest
I believe youth is not a function of chronological age as much as it is function and attitude. If you can maintain your health, capabilities, and a curious and grateful spirit, you can feel young. We all know "old people" who inspire us because they don't seem "old" at all. The Baltimore Longitudinal Study on Aging appears to support this idea - for example, "the aim ... is to identify factors that distinguish extraordinary health at very advanced age from non-'ideal' aging". I believe youthful health as we age is possible for way more of us than society believes.
My wife and I met a wonderful couple this summer. Every morning in the warmer months they go slalom waterskiing, and they graciously took us along.
How old are they? I don't really know, but I think they said they've been married and living in their lake house for 40 years. I'm guessing in their 60s? But the important point - does it really matter? They are able to enjoy whatever activity they want, and happiness radiates from them. Age is not a definer or limiter for them. I'm sure you know people like that.
I hope to develop Younger U into something more formal and sharable soon.
I hope to develop Younger U into something more formal and sharable soon.
One quick note about exercise...
I made this chart, and it fits nicely here. It's titled, "Pick any exercise you like, but do pick one".