Six months ago, I left NYC for a 200-year-old cottage in the countryside that’s close enough to commute, but literally (and energetically) miles away from my former studio in Brooklyn. Without the constant background noise of living in a city that never sleeps, my nervous system is so regulated these days that I feel mildly sedated (in a good way).
But moving from the concrete jungle to the woods of Westchester has meant figuring out how to remain close to my friends now that we live farther apart — especially since new research finds that tight social ties slow down your biological clock and reduce inflammation (say less). As someone who loves alone time (hi, introvert) I’ve spent a lot of it lately rethinking what connection looks like when my natural instinct is to unplug.
Here’s what’s helping me fill my cup without draining my battery:
And on the days I can’t fully escape, I take micro-breaks because psychologists have found even five to 10 minutes of sensory quiet can reset the nervous system.
— Jordan “Will Text You Back Eventually, I Swear” Galloway, editor
What's Making the Rounds
Attention proteinmaxxers: The labs are back on protein powder — and your go-to brand may be bulked up with trace amounts of a neurotoxin.
The steps you take now could help prevent dementia in the future. Here, the simple lifestyle switches doctors recommend you make today.
If you’re old enough to remember those iconic “Got Milk?” ads… it’s time to get serious about bone health. Typically, bone density peaks in your twenties, then drops, and it declines fast after menopause. About 1 in 2 women over 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis, but the risk varies dramatically by ethnicity. It’s not just an “older woman” problem, either — bone loss can start in your 30s, which is why early prevention matters.
Remind me what osteoporosis is again? Your bones are living tissue, constantly breaking down and rebuilding—but that process slows as you age. When more bone is lost than replaced, they become thinner and brittle. That raises your risk of fractures and can lead to back pain, posture changes, a little height loss (yep, that’s why people shrink), and even breathing issues later in life.
Can’t I just add some supplements and call it a day? Not quite.Calcium and vitamin D do help your bones, but overdoing it can backfire. Too much calcium can build up in your arteries, raising your risk of heart problems. Talk with your doctor about the best supplements for your age and risk factors.
Is this where my weighted vest comes in? Sort of. Adding extra load can help stimulate bone growth — but weighted vests aren’t a magic fix, and the science is slim. Exercise scientists say you’d be better off building muscle by doing these 10 exercises for bone health and thinking of your weighted vest as a nice addition to them, rather than a replacement.
For Your Sanity:
Know your medical history. Doctors usually recommend that women get a bone density scan — called a DEXA scan — starting at age 65. But if you’re at higher risk, your doctor may suggest getting one as early as your 30s. That includes if you have a family history of early-onset osteoporosis, a past eating disorder, or a history of bone fractures, especially from minor falls or bumps. If any of those describe you, tell your GP.
Eat a varied diet. Studies show the most effective way to get the minerals your bones need is through food. Experts include protein, leafy greens, nuts, legumes, eggs, and some types of seafood as MVPs, but certain nutrients work together in ways most people don’t realize. And good news, coffee fiends: There’s emerging research to suggest that your morning cup might protect against bone loss too.
Make it a family thing. Skeletal health isn’t just a “you” issue. If you have kids, now’s the time to ensure they’re getting adequate vitamin D to build solid frames. And PSA: Men get osteoporosis, too — no bones about it.
Quoted and Cosigned: Gabby Thomas on Wellness
Five time Olympic medalist (three of those medals are gold, NBD) Gabby Thomas is a Harvard alum, with a masters in public health from the University of Texas. For her, wellness isn’t just about training or recovery. It’s about people. She recently teamed up with Mrs. Meyer’s Lots of Compassion initiative to help turn vacant lots into community gardens. As she puts it:
“Health is more than just individual choices. It’s about so many other determinants outside of people’s control — like access, education, transportation, and overall environment. This perspective helps me think about how I can use my platform and time to have a broader impact.”
A: "Let’s keep it simple. When the seasons change, it’s time to get a new toothbrush or brush head. Swap earlier if you notice the bristles flattening when you start to brush, discoloration, or odor. And the same goes with travel toothbrushes. Even if you use one infrequently (like, it’s stored at a parent’s house or in your travel bag), you should swap it regularly.”
Some say fall starts when pumpkin spice hits the menu. We say it kicks off when moisturizer takes center stage in our morning routine. Here are the ones that hydrate, soothe, and stand up to whatever your heater’s dishing out.
