1/ Healthy: Cold Exposure for Wellness
As the summer heat subsides from the Northern Hemisphere, we instinctively prepare for the colder days and shorter daylight hours. Our bodies subtly adapt, seeking comfort and warmth against the impending cold. It's common to notice a few extra pounds as our activity levels decrease during this more sedentary season, a natural response aimed at creating a protective layer around our vital organs. Yet, amidst the discomfort of cold exposure, there lies a surprising array of benefits. When our bodies confront the cold, they respond in remarkable ways, triggering processes that not only enhance our physical well-being but also fortify our mental resilience against the harsh climates that lie ahead. Simple activities such as taking cold showers or time spent outdoors with less than ideal layers can benefit your metabolism and immunity. Recommend you start soon and slow so you can build your tolerance toward the colder days.
Cold Water Therapy 101 by Monk
2/ Wealthy: Financial Independence Retire Early
The FIRE movement (Financial Independence, Retire Early) is a financial philosophy that is about more than merely retiring young. FIRE is a protocol for lifestyle revolution focused on financial freedom and optimal time use. The core tenets include saving and investing as much of your income as you need in order to reduce the amount of time needed until you can voluntarily stop working. Basics such as spending less, saving diligently, and investing wisely fortify this strategy.
The [simple] Formula: (Desired yearly income X 25)
Approaches differ:
Fat FIRE: Enables a luxurious post-retirement life, demanding a substantial nest egg. (Assumes >=5% withdrawal rate)
FIRE: A balanced approach to financial freedom, avoiding extremes. (Assumes ~4% withdrawal rate)
Lean FIRE: Embraces minimalism and frugality, needing a smaller fund. (Assumes <=3% withdrawal rate)
Anyone can improve their wealth building process despite whether or not retirement is desired.
If you’re curious and want to know your own FIRE numbers, see the calculator linked here. It will help you to consider the variables of inflation, interest, taxes, and of course the mathematics.
3/ Wise: Just Do the Next Right Thing
“All you can do is the next right thing”
This profound phrase, found on t-shirts, in theology, and even Disney movies like “Frozen 2,” encapsulates a moral blueprint. Its origins, whether from Carl Jung or a 19th-century Christian poem, are secondary to its impact. Focusing on immediate, necessary actions, it transforms overwhelming situations into manageable steps.
By concentrating on the next right thing, we discover direction, purpose, and control amid chaos. It offers respite from mental torment, allowing us to embrace the present and the future. Simple phrases like this serve as foundation stones of inner power, something we can draw upon in moments of need, offering stability and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
In conclusion, let us remember that health, wealth, and wisdom are interconnected aspects of a fulfilling life. Embrace authenticity, seek evidence, and cultivate meaningful connections as you embark on this journey of personal growth toward a life well spent.
Stay healthy, wealthy, and wise.
With warmth,
Fernando R.F.
(Note: This blog is not written by a medical or financial professional. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle, especially if you have any underlying health conditions. They can provide personalized guidance tailored to your individual needs. It is important to do your own research and determine the best course of action together with an expert.)
Go Deeper:
https://discovermonk.com/blogs/blog/the-101-on-cold-water-therapy-benefits
https://www.hubermanlab.com/newsletter/the-science-and-use-of-cold-exposure-for-health-and-performance
https://www.jci.org/articles/view/60433?key=5e3684aee3d55b74adc8
https://www.abebooks.com/book-search/kw/eleanor-amerman-sutphen-ye-nexte-thynge/
https://www.google.com/search?q=the+next+right+thing+lyrics&source=lmns&bih=695&biw=1080&prmd=visn&rlz=1C9BKJA_enUS907US908&hl=en-US&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj2rdiqseWBAxXYGGIAHUsJBcMQ_AUoAHoECAAQBA
https://www.themarginalian.org/2021/12/07/carl-jung-next-right-thing/
https://walletburst.com/tools/fire-calculator/