Back in the Mountains, Drink Coffee for Brain Health, and Golden Gravel Trail
We’re back in the mountains. Our recent relocation (yep, again) back to our beloved mountain town is motivated mostly by a simple yearning to be part of these peaks and ranges. But there is also a funny pull to nestle back into a tiny space, purge more things, and re-prioritize our “live small, play big” campaign. I can’t explain the weird comfort of being back in a 375 sq. ft studio space, where all we use is within literal steps from the next. I can’t explain the freedom and relief of walking to town for groceries and relying on the free, electric bus ride back. Yes, the liberation from constant decision-making in a town with few commercial choices is one weight off my shoulders.
That, friends, is all I want.
Next to nothing, close to everything.
— Pablo Neruda
What I can explain is that whatever inconveniences we’ve accepted are far forgotten when climbing the ski hill out of our backyard, or riding through the less-traveled gulches woven into these Pioneer Mountains. In the midst of the current extraordinary and devastating circumstances, we often feel reluctant to enjoy, let alone share, seemingly inconsequential pleasures or achievements. Without delving deeper into a black hole of social analysis, we can decide what’s beautiful in this life we’ve got, live it as best we can, harm as little as possible, and take care of each other.
Back in the mountains to get Outfurther, linger longer, be better.
5 Things to Get You Out Further
Adventures: On our wishlist, this new cross-country bikepack route is exciting! The Golden Gravel Trail from Adventure Cycling, in collaboration with several experienced, ultra-distance cyclists, runs from Missouri to the Oregon Coast on non-technical dirt roads and low-trafficked pavement. Yes, it’s 3,800 miles through various mountain ranges and requires a several-month (2.5 months suggested) commitment, so not exactly in the cards right now. But as it passes through our backyard, we just may be able to sample pieces of it this summer.
Longevity: In case you needed it, here’s one more reason to keep training consistently. As athletes interested in exercise physiology, we are familiar with our tiny but mighty mitochondria, the “powerhouse of the cell,” and an important player in endurance performance. Studies suggest that the health of these mitochondria is also significant for broader wellbeing, such as immune function and longevity, and that “both endurance and resistance training were effective, but doing the two in combination offered the biggest benefit.”
The Key to Longevity May Be Found Inside Our Cells
Wellness: Your morning coffee or tea may be supporting your brain health. A long-term study found that moderate consumption of caffeinated coffee or tea was linked to an 18% lower risk of dementia and better cognitive performance over time. The benefits appeared strongest at 2–3 cups of coffee. Our favorite— Kicking Horse Kick Ass Dark Roast.
Athletic inspiration: In January, at 60 years old, Michelle Rohl added another world record to her collection of accolades on the track. The three-time Olympian placed eighth in 5:26.65 in the masters mile, but broke the record for 60-64 age group. Sascha Scott, from Syracuse, NY, won the race in 5:15.02 at the age of 50.
Training: Susan completed the UESCA training course and is starting a coaching practice for those wanting to run farther. She has created a 50K training plan for our supporting members. And, for those needing more guidance and accountability, we're happy and eager to help you get out further through our coaching services.