3 Key Takeaways from Dr. Kelly Starrett’s ‘Built to Move’ interview with Tim Ferris

In a recent interview with Tim Ferris, Dr. Kelly Starrett discussed his new book “Built to Move” and shared some insightful takeaways. One of the main points that resonated with me was the focus on physical balance, flexibility, and their practical application in daily life.

Starrett emphasized the importance of daily fitness for how you look and improve your overall lifestyle and well-being. In other words, fitness is not just cosmetic but a way to care for yourself by eating well and engaging in physical activity.

Toward the end of the interview, Starrett shared three key thoughts that stuck with me. First, he emphasized the importance of consistency before heroics. Maintaining a regular routine is more important than pushing yourself to extremes. Second, he spoke to the idea that change takes time. Progress may seem slow, but steady improvement is better than no improvement. Finally, Starrett highlighted the importance of community in health and fitness. It’s always easier to stay motivated when you have someone to support and encourage you.

I found Starrett’s approach to physical fitness and well-being practical and inspiring. By prioritizing balance, consistency, and community, anyone can make meaningful progress toward a healthier and happier life.

Mathematics vs. English: Which Language Stands the Test of Time?

I saw a tweet yesterday that got me thinking about the number programming language in 2023.

Is mathematics more important than English, or vice versa? While both have a unique significance in our world, we’ll explore their enduring qualities and decide which truly stands the test of time.

We all know that English is the global lingua franca. It’s the go-to language for international communication, technology, and diplomacy. But, as with any language, it can evolve and even go extinct. That’s where mathematics comes in – a language that transcends cultural and temporal barriers, remaining consistent throughout history.

So, let’s break it down:

  1. Mathematics: The Universal Language
  • Timeless and universal, math provide a solid foundation for numerous scientific disciplines.
  • It’s crucial for business, finance, and accounting ledgers (the first code base), giving us a structured way to understand and interpret our world.
  • Mathematics doesn’t have the same cultural and temporal constraints as spoken languages, making it the ultimate enduring language.
  1. English: The Global Connector
  • English is essential for communication in our interconnected world, bridging gaps between people from diverse backgrounds.
  • It’s the primary language for cutting-edge technology like AI language models like ChatGPT.
  • However, like any other language, English can evolve and even go extinct as global dynamics shift and other languages gain prominence.

Mathematics wins, thanks to its enduring, universal nature. English takes the #2 position for its significant role in global communication and technology.

From Gutenberg to ChatGPT: How Technology is Accelerating Writing and Learning

As a writer, staying curious and embracing innovative tools is key to boosting productivity and creativity. That’s where ChatGPT, an AI language model, comes in – it’s a game-changer for writers everywhere.

Exploring ChatGPT’s capabilities can spark inspiration and elevate your writing process. By letting AI tackle the grunt work, you’ll have more time to focus on generating ideas and refining your craft. Think of ChatGPT as your AI writing partner, helping you breeze through that first draft.

Remember the saying, “write drunk, edit sober”? ChatGPT is like your personal editor, transforming your thoughts into a polished end product more quickly.

With ChatGPT, you can write faster, get feedback sooner, and improve your writing rapidly. The train has left the station. Get on, or get left behind.

Think back to the 1400s and the printing press. That invention made books affordable and accessible, democratizing knowledge and sparking the Renaissance. Increased literacy led to breakthroughs in science, literature, and philosophy.

ChatGPT is like a modern-day printing press, revolutionizing writing and accelerating learning. As writers, using these tools can help us reach our full potential and create captivating content.

So, what will the ChatGPT-fueled Renaissance look like?

Photo by Saliha Sevim on Pexels.com

The Importance of Learning Rules and Rituals from Our Elders

My grandmother was an avid golfer who continued to play well into her nineties. For her, golf was not just a sport but also a way to stay mobile, social, and fit. During my school holidays, she would invite my brothers and me to join her for a round of golf. As beginners, we were still learning the basics, but my grandmother was fastidious about the etiquette and rules of the game. We played early in the morning, completing 9 holes before it got crowded, and we always had a great time. However, there was also a serious undercurrent of respect for the game’s rules and rituals. We were expected to wear proper attire, keep the game moving, and respect the other players on the course.

Learning rules and rituals from our elders are essential because it allows us to benefit from their tribal knowledge. This is why multi-generational living makes sense: it provides opportunities for the younger generation to learn from their elders. It’s not just in sports like golf that this applies, but also in any discipline, including business, fitness, and socializing. When we learn from those who have come before us, we can avoid mistakes and gain valuable insights that we would not have otherwise. So, let’s embrace the wisdom of our elders and continue to learn from them in all aspects of life.

Time for some Karoo kudu medicine

JH shared an incredible video showcasing the power and agility of a Kudu as it jumps over a fence from a standstill position to drink water from a sheep pen. Despite the bold move, the Anatolian sheepdog calmly watches over the sheep, allowing the thirsty Kudu to take a much-needed water break on a hot day in the Karoo.

Stunning Emerald Diamond of Northern California’s Spring Bloom

Thanks to the ample rain in California, we are now experiencing a stunning spring bloom. Just last year, the Presidio in San Francisco was parched and dry, with the normally misty and cold path down Lover’s Lane through the Eucalyptus trees transformed into a dusty and dry trail resembling a sand dune. However, it looks like the state is due for some relief as a dry spell is forecasted. For now, Northern California is a breathtaking emerald diamond, showcasing its natural beauty for all to enjoy.

Thanks JH for sharing the pic

The Power of Intentional Breaks for Sparking Creativity

It’s easy to fall into a routine that leaves little room for reflection and creative thinking. However, taking intentional breaks can be a powerful way to clear our minds, spark creativity, and generate new ideas.

So, what makes a break intentional? It’s about creating a space and time for specific activities that help clarify thinking. Here are some factors that can help you create the ideal environment for sparking creativity:

Sunshine: Exposure to sunlight is a natural mood booster and can help you feel more alert and energized. Take some time to sit outside, go for a walk or hike, or even just open a window to let some natural light in.

Saltwater swimming: Swimming in salt water can have a calming effect on the mind and body. The sensation of being weightless and surrounded by water can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Fitness: Engaging in physical activity can help release endorphins and increase blood flow to the brain, leading to improved cognitive function and a clearer mind. Find a form of fitness that works for you and is fun, whether going for a run, doing yoga, lifting weights, or swimming. The upside is you look good and feel good when you are fit.

Stepping away from “busy work” stress: Sometimes, we must disconnect from work to give our minds a break. This could mean taking a day off, setting aside dedicated time each day for personal activities, or finding ways to disconnect from work-related technologies.

Take a brain break to think: It’s important to have dedicated time and space for thinking and reflection. This could mean traveling and reading without distractions, one-on-one conversations where you play with ideas and let them percolate.

New stimuli: Exposure to new environments, people, and ideas can help spark creativity and generate new insights. Try traveling to a new place, attending a conference, or reading science fiction on a topic that interests you.

Finally, remember that creativity is a process that often has a long tail. Ideas and epiphanies may not come immediately but rather after you’ve returned to the routines and rituals of daily life. Give yourself the space and time to let ideas germinate and develop, and be open to new connections and insights that arise along the way.

Incorporating intentional breaks into your routine can profoundly impact your creativity and overall well-being. Creating a space that allows for clarity of thought and exposure to new stimuli allows you to tap into your full creative potential and generate new ideas that enhance your personal and professional life.

Cheeky Cockatoos

This photo of a cockatoo was taken in Manly, Australia. Noisy, cheeky, and delightful, these birds bring a unique energy and charm to the bustling beaches and cafes of the area. Cockatoos have playful personalities and impressive acrobatic skills, making them a favorite among both locals and visitors in Manly.

During the day, these birds roost in massive fig trees, traffic lights, and eucalyptus trees. The massive fig trees, in particular, are a popular spot for these birds to hang out, but they make way for visiting fruit bats that feed on the figs when the sun sets.

While these cheeky birds may seem to be begging for food, resisting the urge to share your snacks with them is essential. Not only can feeding wild animals disrupt their natural behavior, but it’s also not the healthiest option for our feathered friends. Instead, why not enjoy the spectacle of these lively birds as they squawk, duck, and dive all over the place? Watching them interact with the visiting fruit bats in the fig trees is a remarkable experience that can provide a greater appreciation for the beauty of nature. So, let’s keep these delightful birds wild and let them continue to bring joy to visitors and locals in Manly.

Devil’s Peak in the morning

This picture of Devil’s Peak from Claremont is like a time machine. I can smell, feel and hear this picture, which transports me back to a specific time and place.

I know the morning smell of Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs, with the oak trees and the distinct aroma of fynbos drifting down from Kirstenbosch gardens. I can feel the cold, sticky dew on the Kikuyu grass, and I remember the misty vale of morning heat on Devil’s Peak that signaled a hot day and strong South Easterly wind.

As I look at the picture, I can hear the noise of the M3 from morning traffic near Rhodes Drive and Claremont Main Road as the city wakes up and gets ready for school and work. It’s a memory that’s etched into my mind and triggered every time I see this picture.

The picture captures the essence of this time and place, and I’m transported back to those moments every time I look at it. It’s like stepping into a time machine and experiencing that morning’s sights, sounds, and smells all over again.

This mountain reminds me of the beauty of Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs and the memories tied to this place. It’s more than just a snapshot of a landscape – it’s a portal to a time and a place that will always hold a special place in my heart.

Thanks @Maven_Insights, for sharing the Cape Town morning