What It Really Means To Thrive Over 40

I've dedicated my channel and my business to helping men and women over 40 get lean and strong because I believe passionately in getting the most out of this life that we have. And that means performing at our best possible level physically and mentally.

From a practical standpoint, that means strength training, cardio, daily movement, and other activities that bring us joy. It means eating lots of healthy whole foods including lean proteins, vegetables, fruit, whole grains, nuts, seeds, dairy.

It also incorporates our favourite treat foods, which for me is chocolate and ice cream and fresh soft baked chocolate chip cookies and once in a while maybe even a beer or two.

Finding Balance Instead Of Obsession

I've done all the crazy diets. I've believed all the people fear mongering about sugar and carbs and toxins and processed foods and chemicals in general. I ate clean for a long time trying to lose the extra fat.

But the unhealthiest part of it becomes the obsession, the need to try to control everything. And we can't really do that. We need to find balance by setting up good habits and routines, taking care of our bodies, and then also leaving space to just do things for the fun of it, and occasionally screw up and get back up and try again.

My Grandmother’s Story

My grandmother, Babi, died today. She was 95 years old. She survived Hitler's occupation of her country, then Czechoslovakia in the late 30s, then the Russian occupation that started in 1968.

She had two children, four grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. She was the reason I taught my son to speak Czech, so he could speak to her when she first visited us in Canada in the summer when he was very young, and then when we went to visit her each summer in the last few years.

Apparently, she went for a walk today, then sat down on a chair in her room, and her cane dropped to the floor, and that was it. She wasn't sick. Her time had just come. Ninety five. And she had been ready for it for a while now.

Thinking About Life And Aging

So, now I'm thinking even more about aging and life and death. The quality of life matters just as much as how long you live. We lost my mother in law this summer after a ten year battle with cancer.

My dad died at only 58 from a sudden heart attack while he was teaching a karate class to kids. And my cousin was murdered at only 28.

Sometimes we have a little bit of a say in the length of time we have on this earth and sometimes we don't. But for whatever time we have, I think we need to make the most of it.

Why I Share This With You

So, I'm here to help you get the most out of this life. I want you to thrive over 40 and really believe that your best years are still ahead of you. Amazing experiences still await you.

Many things get harder as we get older. We lose people who are close to us. We're more prone to injury and illness. But I think it's better to wear out than to just rust out. Get the most out of this life while you can.

If any of that resonates with you, watch whatever video pops up for you so you can get started on your journey with me.

Welcome.

Ivana Chapman