Run, Don't Walk

My theme for the year ahead is to run, don't walk. To be honest I felt like I was sleepwalking for a good chunk of last year. I was reasonably productive, but not maximally so. I did a bunch of things, but not a lot. I realize as I approach mid-age (yes, turning 50 this year!) that if you aren't accelerating, you are slowing down. Sure, many advocate for pacing yourself, but what pace?

I think about this a lot as I watch my children live their lives. I am constantly amazed at how much time they spend watching rather than doing. I understand that everyone needs some downtime, but really how much? I enjoy watching Yellowstone, but is it enhancing my life? My understanding of the world we inhabit? Helping me achieve my goals?

Maybe the younger gens haven't found their passion project(s) as of yet. The project that keeps them up at night wondering how they can learn more, make something better, and/or more impactful. I have indeed found such projects, two start-ups of my very own as well as one that I am advising. They have been the reason (my excuse) that I have been in communication less frequently. Yet, I realize as I am now running again that I always have time for exploring and sharing (The Loupe) as it is what I truly enjoy doing.

The theme of this week's Loupe is running, but just because you are running doesn't mean you have to rush.

uDreamer Record Player

I recently caught up with an old friend from college at Parent's Weekend, as we both have children attending our alma mater. To be honest, we hadn't seen each other since college. He was a few years older but I recall our strong friendship despite our age difference. The reason is that he cares about people, all people. He enjoys connecting with others, maybe more than anyone I have ever known. He has no agenda or ego that I am aware of. He is someone I admire tremendously.

Since our reconnection, we have had drinks and dinner with wives/friends. I was surprised to learn he had sent a "Christmas" gift, the uDreamer record player. This gift embodies this year's theme of running, not walking. Life runs smoother/better/faster with a soundtrack. Nothing gets the motor running like good old nostalgia. He also bought me a Bruce Springsteen album of a lost recording at the Hammersmith Odeon London 1975, their first foray across the pond, which became an instant classic. Don't worry digital music denizens, you can easily download the contents of the record to Apple Music or Spotify with the include WeAreVinyl code. This record player is inexpensive, very easy to use, and requires no set-up. I know it's a bit late for the holidays but indulge and get one for yourself.

HigherDOSE Infrared Blanket

Every 'runner' knows that after you run, you must recover. Way back when (pre Coronavirus), I would luxuriate and recover at the gym by sitting in the steam room, jacuzzi, and/or sauna. Previously, I have visited and written about Aire Ancient Baths (a variety of soaks), Lift Floats (salt baths), and HigherDOSE (infrared sauna). These days it seems like recovering at home is the only answer and most people have space (and plumbing) constraints. The fine folks at HigherDOSE adapted their business model and found an answer, the infrared sauna blanket. Easy to set up and highly effective at relaxing the body and accelerating the recovery process; this will guarantee you are ready to 'run' the following day.

Run into the New Year and then recover by climbing into your HigherDOSE Infrared Blanket and listening to records on your uDreamer!