If you’re seeking an enjoyable, low-impact exercise that can add some fun to your fitness, consider a routine that may cover all these perks at once: swimming. In addition to being wildly popular, this recreational activity is highly regarded for its incredible benefits to the body. It improves muscle tone and burns fat, and if you have access to an indoor fitness center or community pool, it can potentially be done year-round. But why exactly is swimming such an impactful fitness solution? Take a deep dive into the incredible holistic advantages of this thrilling exercise.
The CDC recommends that adults get at least two and a half hours of moderate physical activity and two muscle-strengthening sessions per week. Breaking up a sedentary lifestyle in this way can provide tremendous health benefits, namely a sharply reduced risk of serious conditions, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, many cancers, and heart disease.
Swimming for five thirty-minute sessions each week can easily satisfy these health guidelines and improve your quality of life. Alternatively, if you live a busy lifestyle, you can engage in less frequent but higher-intensity sessions, such as performing freestyle laps. The CDC categorizes this as a rigorous activity that fulfills the physical-activity recommendations in only seventy-five minutes a week. And due to the repetitive muscle movement required to propel your body through water, swimming can also meet the organization’s muscle-strengthening guidance.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, so it’s crucial to live a heart-healthier lifestyle. Thankfully, swimming itself can make a major impact, whether you enjoy a leisurely pace or intense laps in a pool. According to Harvard Medical School, the activity offers many positive cardiovascular health outcomes, such as increased blood flow to your extremities, boosted cardiac output, improved blood pressure, and a lower overall risk of heart disease.
However, if you currently suffer from a heart condition, consult with your doctor about any risks and precautions to take. For instance, try to avoid swimming in very cold water; this may cause “cold shock,” a temporary spike in your heart rate and blood pressure upon first entering the pool.
Splashing around in the lanes can not only bolster your heart but also cushion your joints against excessive strain or weight. While strenuous exercises on land can apply pressure to the body, exercising in water allows the liquid to absorb your weight, which reduces the impact on major joints like your knees and the ones in your spine. This makes swimming an excellent choice for elderly individuals, especially those with joint issues like arthritis that can make other exercise routines challenging—or even punishing the next day.
The CDC reports that living an active lifestyle via exercises like swimming can help reduce your risk of depression, anxiety, and dementia; each fitness session can also provide an instant mood boost. While these advantages may be true of various regimens, the uniquely soothing sensation and calming rhythm of gliding through water can be especially useful in helping you breathe your stresses away. This might make swimming the ultimate wellness activity.
Despite its incredible range of benefits to the body, swimming may not be the ideal exercise for everybody. After all, it requires a specific and potentially prohibitive piece of equipment: a swimming pool. If you don’t own one at home, you could access a community pool or one at a local fitness center, though you may need to pay a membership fee to do so.
Another barrier that may hold you back is technique. Swimming isn’t overly complicated, but if you’ve never learned how to swim or are out of practice, you may be intimidated by the idea of doing laps and may need special training before venturing off on your own. Some people may also have physical limitations that prevent them from engaging in top-form techniques like freestyle or butterfly.
If the access, cost, or skill required puts you at odds with a swimming regimen, don’t worry—there are other low-impact solutions to try that may be more accessible to you, including hiking, cycling, and yoga. These exercises offer many of the same benefits as swimming and could also be easier to implement regularly. The key to a proper fitness routine is consistency, so choose an activity that you will enjoy and can stick to, whether or not that involves going for a swim.
*Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting a new activity like swimming.
Motivated for a variety of reasons, including financial and personal, homebuyers seeking properties outside their country of residence are on the rise, according to Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, a global network of quality-focused real estate firms that conducted business in eighty-four countries last year.
The surge in cross-border business is indicative of a broader societal trend that reflects the increasingly global world. From remote work to lifestyle goals, there are many factors driving the surge in such real estate purchases.
The case studies reported by Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® members are numerous and varied: a California resident purchasing an investment property in Mexico to later be used as a retirement home; a German couple in need of a villa within two hours of their yacht berthed on the Swiss border; a semipro surfer looking to take advantage of Portugal’s favorable investment environment; a family moving from Colorado to Italy because of a job transfer. The list goes on.
In recent years, many people have begun feeling more comfortable extending their portfolios to foreign markets. They’re moving where they see opportunity, which, depending on the individual, may be financially motivated, driven by lifestyle, prompted by geopolitical issues, or influenced by a combination of these and other factors.
Generally speaking, the most popular markets are those that are economically stable with an affordable cost of living and a desirable lifestyle. They also offer the potential for a favorable return on investment.
In markets where it is common practice to purchase a second home away from the city environs, some are looking beyond their own borders to destinations in other countries. This trend is especially noticeable in areas where the prices of “recreational” properties have significantly increased.
Some of the top locations for second-home purchases abroad are those that are easily accessible by plane and have nice coastlines, such as Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, and Mexico.
Other influential factors include a country’s reputation for safety, robust and affordable health-care system, favorable exchange rates, stable and expanding real estate market, areas known for hospitality, and exceptional education opportunities.
Affordability and growth potential are also important considerations. If the price is right, some homeowners may even purchase more than one property. People are investing in countries with a high possibility of future price appreciation, very often in developing countries with significant economic growth, including Thailand, Costa Rica, Vietnam, and India.
Success in the global real estate marketplace requires specific skills and strategies. Buying property abroad can be complicated, so it is essential to work with a trusted partner who will guide you through the process safely using the knowledge only they can provide as a verified local expert.
Because Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® has an active presence in more than seventy countries, the network is an unmatched source for local real estate expertise on a global scale. However, simply having such a presence is not all that matters when it comes to serving a worldwide clientele. Truly understanding cultural diversity goes much deeper than that.
Global opportunities involve dealing with someone who is not like you, and to make the process of international homeownership smoother, it makes sense to work with a real estate professional who possesses the skills and knowledge necessary for facilitating cross-market transactions. The connectivity fostered within the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® network and the deep resources the organization provides to members are the engine that makes it all happen when it comes to assisting clients worldwide.
Being a global organization is much more than just having representation around the world. It means understanding the nuances of doing business in different places and adapting accordingly with a global mindset. Each year, network members collaborate on nearly 20,000 client introductions, and each relationship is carefully managed with an understanding of how real estate is conducted in the local market, with a sensitivity to cultural and communication differences and—above all—a hands-on approach.
If you are considering a real estate purchase in another country, the first step should be contacting your local Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® member. They will introduce you to the most qualified professionals in your destination of choice in virtually any market worldwide while providing unmatched expertise to help you navigate the process and pursue your international real estate dreams.
Check out this resource outlining programs designed to help make a move abroad possible.
Whether you’re seeking an uncluttered, organized kitchen or have an open floor plan and want it to blend seamlessly with your other living areas, a minimalist design may just be the way to go. Its sleek surfaces and lack of ornamentation can provide clear and tidy workspaces, while its simple lines can create the illusion of space. In short, it both performs well and looks good.
You may imagine that developing such a highly functional, aesthetically pleasing space will exhaust your budget, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Whether you’re building a new home or making over your current one, these ideas can help you get the look you want without an extensive renovation.
A chief hallmark of minimalist kitchens is their peaceful ambience. To achieve this vibe, avoid colors that are too bright or distracting, instead painting your walls white or a soft hue like sage or greige. Likewise, opt for a simple backsplash composed of sleek glass or large ceramic tiles in a neutral shade. Of course, if you like bold colors, you don’t have to forgo them entirely. Simply bring them in sparingly, such as with a brighter rug, curtains, or countertop decor, making sure to pick tones that complement the rest of your design. This will give your kitchen a nice pop of color without marring the refined look you desire.
Grounding your kitchen with wood or stone floors, or ones that look like such, can boost its warmth and elegance. For example, hardwood and luxury vinyl floors provide a light, smooth appearance, while large-format ceramic or porcelain floor tiles resembling pale stone or concrete offer a contemporary touch that suits a neutral color scheme.
As for lighting, bring in as much sunlight as you can, either by hanging roller shades or blinds that can be opened easily or eliminating window coverings altogether. Additionally, instead of a traditional chandelier, consider installing a sculptural one with metallic finishes, transparent glass, and exposed bulbs; the simpler shape and muted tones will better suit a minimalist design. Or for an even cleaner look, opt for recessed lights that blend into the ceiling. And choose high-performance LED bulbs, which may allow you to minimize the number of light fixtures needed in your space.
Cabinets are a standout element in any kitchen, so make sure to give yours some consideration. Depending on your budget, you could swap them out for simple, flat-front ones in a light wood such as white or maple. Leave them unadorned without knobs, or select something sleek like chrome bar pulls; aim to match them with your sink hardware for a comprehensive look. Alternatively, you can get a minimalist feel for less by keeping your existing cabinetry and updating your more vintage knobs with less conspicuous ones.
Like your cabinets, your countertops are a main focal point of the space and can make or break your kitchen’s design. An unassuming shade like gray or white will lend an unfussy vibe, whether you go with quartz, marble, or laminate. For an uncomplicated appearance, seek a surface with little to no veining or speckling, and consider installing an undermount sink. Just as important, always keep your counters as neat as possible, tucking away items you don’t often use in your pantry or cabinets.
As indicated, your kitchen can only fully reflect a minimalist, “less is more” aesthetic if it’s well organized. Therefore, pare down your dishes, glasses, pots, and kitchen tools as much as you can, keeping only what you need so they can fit neatly inside your storage spaces. You could even organize a swap with friends and family—exchanging duplicate or no-longer-used items for ones you’re missing. Another option is to sell what you don’t want, such as on Facebook Marketplace, and put your proceeds toward something more useful, such as shelf organizers to help you keep your cabinets tidy.
Achieving a minimalist design doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few changes, you may find that you can easily make over even a highly traditional kitchen into one that exudes both grace and efficiency.
Retirement marks a significant life transition, offering the promise of newfound freedom. Yet to optimize these golden years, it’s essential to realize the impact of the financial, emotional, and mental health aspects as you prepare for this new phase. Whether it’s starting a business or spending time volunteering, retirement is about embarking on a personal journey on your own terms.
There is no clear-cut way to know precisely the amount of money you’ll need to secure a comfortable retirement. External factors like inflation and medical issues along with personal goals like your desired lifestyle can all impact your future expenses. There are various strategies you can use to assist you in the years leading up to and during your retirement, whether you plan to leave the workforce soon or somewhere down the line.
Establish an investment and savings plan
Gaining a clear understanding of your current financial standing is crucial for developing a sound retirement plan. This requires reviewing your income, savings, investments, and debts to establish a baseline. Consider seeking guidance from a financial advisor, whose expertise can help you navigate the complexities of retirement planning, set realistic goals, and tailor your strategy to fit your financial capacity.
Create a budget
Once you’re armed with a clear picture of your financial standing and investment strategy, you should begin saving as soon as you can. Devise a budget that accounts for your anticipated living expenses, insurance premiums, and health-care costs. You’ll also want to decide how to allocate funds for discretionary spending, including traveling, dining, and entertainment.
Know your Social Security payout
Understanding how your Social Security benefits can add to your retirement funds is essential in crafting an effective long-term strategy. Make sure to research ahead of time when you can and should start collecting your payments to receive the maximum amount—beginning at seventy years old rather than sixty-seven will yield a higher payout, for instance. To assist you in this, consider utilizing an online calculator to estimate your benefits or consulting with a financial advisor, who can help you assess and determine the number you can anticipate.
Research your pensions and benefits
Depending on your job, you may be getting a pension after retirement, which means that your employer will pay you a fixed amount of money each month based on your income and length of employment. Be sure to check with them about what would happen should you change jobs to eliminate any surprises down the road.
Retirement marks not only the conclusion of a career but also the beginning of a new life chapter, and yet many American adults have never given a thought to planning for the emotional aspects of it. Once the excitement begins to wane, it’s not uncommon to experience a loss of identity and concerns about changing social connections. If you’re mindful that your identity extends beyond your career and professional achievements, retirement presents great opportunities for personal growth and fulfillment. Here are some proactive measures you can adopt to prepare emotionally for life without a job.
Cultivate and strengthen your social connections
Fear of losing their social network in retirement is one of the many reasons people tend to put off planning for it. To help ensure that your existing relationships continue to thrive, arrange to stay connected through regular communication, whether scheduling occasional lunches or video calls or engaging in fun activities. Additionally, you can cultivate new relationships by volunteering in your local community or joining clubs based on shared interests, in turn fostering a supportive network.
Define your purpose
While retirement itself may be positive, the transition is not always seamless; it can take time to adjust and navigate the shift from a structured work routine to a more flexible lifestyle. Consider what will bring you joy and fulfillment—it could be engaging in a hobby you’ve always wanted to pursue but didn’t have the time or resources for or perhaps even starting a new business venture. Establishing short-term and long-term objectives can help you create a vision for a rewarding retirement life.
Implement a wellness plan
Managing your health can be one of the most overwhelming aspects of retirement, making it essential to devise a plan to prioritize it. Aim to keep an active lifestyle, exercising regularly if possible, and consume a well-balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight and reduce your chances of developing certain health conditions. Also, consult with your doctor to review your medical history, current health status, and any potential risk factors, creating a personalized plan as needed to protect your health in the coming years.
Establishing new routines and social connections can trigger feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression as you move into retirement. To preserve your mental well-being, foster a positive mindset, be adaptable to change, and identify in advance activities that keep you intellectually engaged. Further, continuous learning can keep your mind sharp to help prevent age-related memory decline and enhance your problem-solving abilities; consider taking up a new language, exploring artistic endeavors, or enrolling in courses. Engaging in such mentally stimulating activities can also reduce stress levels, improve mood, and enhance sleep quality, all of which contribute to mental sharpness.
Preparing for and adjusting to retirement will likely require you to revisit your strategies along the way. Seek the expertise of a financial advisor and a retirement counselor, both of whom can help you facilitate a smooth and successful transition into your golden years.
