Virtual Nature Therapy | The Backdoor Roth IRA | Sweeping the Floors with Daniel Brush
Post #40 from March 10, 2024
1/ Healthy: Nature Therapy from ACER Integration
There is a growing need to bridge the gap between ourselves, each other, and the natural world. In today's fast-paced, technology-driven society, we often yearn for a sense of connection and belonging that extends beyond the digital realm. This disconnect has significant implications for our well-being.
The healing power of nature has been recognized throughout all existence, and recent scientific research further supports its benefits for mental and emotional well-being. Although, not all of us can access the healing therapies of undisrupted nature to our liking. Fortunately, there is an alternative solution:
ACER Integration, a year-long, nature-based program founded by Dr. Rosalind Watts, offers a unique approach to facilitating personal growth, healing, and community building. With a closed online community that utilizes nature-based practices to foster individual and collective healing.
Acceptance of difficult memories and feelings
Connection to onceself and the natural world
Embodiment of how thoughts and feelings arise in the body
Restoration through a shift in daily life
The closed community aspect of ACER Integration plays a crucial role in the healing process. By sharing experiences and supporting one another, participants can experience a sense of belonging and connection that is often lacking in individual therapy models. This collective support system provides a safe space for growth, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and accountability for individual progress.
While ACER Integration offers a promising approach to personal and collective healing, it's important to remember that it is not a substitute for professional therapy.
Watch Dr. Rosalind Watts discuss the program's philosophy and approach:
2/ Wealthy: The Backdoor IRA
In 2024, the contribution limit for both traditional and Roth IRAs is $7,000, or $8,000 if you're 50 or older. However, income limits apply:
Single filers: $161,000 & Married filing jointly: $240,000
If your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) exceeds these limits, the backdoor Roth IRA offers a strategic workaround to contribute to a Roth IRA and benefit from its tax advantages.
Here's how it works:
Make a non-deductible contribution to a traditional IRA within the eligibility period (contribution year + tax filing deadlines)
Convert the traditional IRA contribution to a Roth IRA. A common best practice is to use a separate account each year you do the conversion to avoid commingling of funds—this is not required.
While the backdoor Roth IRA can be a valuable tool, it's crucial to get proper consultation to ensure you’re following each of the requirements and navigating the complexities involved.
Important Notes:
“Pennies issue”: Even slight discrepancies in traditional IRA conversions (down to the penny) can impact the conversion process.
Proper forms required: Ensure you have the necessary forms during tax filing (ie. Form 8606)
Remember that any earnings within the traditional IRA at the time of conversion are taxed.
For a counter-argument and alternatives, look here.
If all of that sounds groovy, then this comprehensive tutorial [White Coat Investor Backdoor Roth IRA Tutorial] offers practical guidance.
3/ Wise: Sweeping the Floor with Daniel Brush
The life and practice of the late American artist, Daniel Brush, offer a unique lens through which to examine the relationship between creativity and daily ritual. Brush, a multifaceted artist; metalworker; jeweler; engineer; poet, and painter defied categorization. Yet, despite his decades of mastery and established reputation in the art world, Brush maintained a seemingly mundane daily practice: starting each morning with 3-5 hours meticulously sweeping the wooden floors of his home and studio.
This ordinary, and tedious, act becomes a portal into Brush's creative process. Was it a form of physical meditation, a way to quiet the mind before the chaos of creation? Or perhaps a symbolic gesture, clearing the physical canvas before embarking on the artistic one? Brush himself never explicitly explained the ritual's significance. However, its persistence throughout his artistic life suggests a deeper meaning. It compels us to consider the importance of intentionality and mindfulness within the creative process. Perhaps, like clearing the physical space, sweeping away distractions and preconceptions allows for a more focused and open approach to artistic exploration. The act of sweeping itself, repetitive yet requiring focus, might have mirrored the meticulous techniques employed in his metalworking.
“I make these things to let them have a voice. I make whatever I make because I want to make it. I don’t have any notion beyond it. In fact, I frankly don’t know what to do with these things. But I want to be right there at the edge with the cold wind blowing at me.”
-Daniel Brush
Ultimately, the true significance of Brush's daily ritual remains open to interpretation. But it serves as a reminder that even the most renowned artists cultivate—even rely upon— specific practices to nurture their creativity. It invites us to contemplate the rituals and routines that might unlock our own creative potential, whether it be a brisk walk in nature, a silent meditation, or simply clearing away the clutter, both physical and mental.
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://psychedelicsociety.org.uk/media/a-new-lens-for-psychedelic-therapy-acer-integration
https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/retirement-plans-faqs-regarding-iras
https://www.investopedia.com/terms/b/backdoor-roth-ira.asp
https://www.christies.com/en/stories/daniel-brush-a-jeweller-like-no-other-679a220bf44142dc82f8238900abb45e
I only learned of backdoor IRA last year. This was a good short example into the concept and pitfalls.
Some good fodder for future wealth sections: https://x.com/ankurnagpal/status/1767211909286068562?s=46
I don’t understand all of the options the author lists. Would love to see you break it down similarly.