“Outlive – the Science and Art of Longevity” is a compelling exploration of longevity, health, and the science behind ageing gracefully. Dr Attia draws upon his extensive experience in medicine and research to provide readers with practical insights and strategies for extending lifespan while maintaining optimal health. He talks about the Four Horsemen, being the four main chronic diseases that afflict us as we get older: heart disease, cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. In trying to live longer, and live better for longer, he maintains that we need to step in sooner rather than later t ..read more

My journey with SMART (Stranded Marine Animal Rescue Team) began after our retirement and move to Mossel Bay. This non-profit, established in 2015, rescues stranded marine mammals and turtles. Our role is to respond quickly to animals on beaches, prioritising their well-being. While Cape Fur Seals basking on rocks is normal, pups washed ashore during storms need our help. When pup strandings are reported, the SMART teams immediately respond so that the pups can be picked up and taken to a place of safety. We reunite them with their island home as soon as possible. Sadly, three sick Sub Antarc ..read more

Inspired by Kim’s blog on the power of permission slips, this month’s conversation starter revolves around conversations with ourselves, learning to silence the inner critic, and giving ourselves permission to honour our authentic selves. The Permission Slip Exercise We all harbour thoughts, ideas, or beliefs that hold us back. Ask yourself: What are the qualities, thoughts, or inner voices you need to banish? What new beliefs and qualities can you focus on to allow yourself to thrive? Answer these questions and jot down the limiting beliefs to banish alongside the ones to embrace. Examples ..read more

Have you ever found yourself standing on the edge of a decision, just waiting for someone to say it’s ok before you take the plunge? To give you the approval for what you’d like to do? Or stop yourself from doing something because it feels unfamiliar? You’re not alone. It’s human nature. We all hold ourselves back sometimes. But what if the only permission slip you truly need is from yourself? Why not write yourself a ‘permission slip’ and give yourself the freedom – and permission – to feel, behave, and live exactly as you want to? Within reason (and your spending plan), of course… Brené Brow ..read more

(1 Couple, 98 Days, 1400 Miles on Europe’s GR5) Reviewed by Kathy Elkind After American Kathy Elkind and her husband Jim moved to Vermont and became empty nesters, they decided to plan a grand walking adventure. In her late fifties and moderately fit, Kathy selected the Grande Randonnée Cinq (GR5) route, starting in Hoek van Holland in The Netherlands and finishing in Nice, France, a distance of 2300 kilometres. Her rationale was that this route would be more refined than rugged, offering a better chance of her making it through to the end! The official trail winds through Europe’s Vosges, Jur ..read more

Dreaming of escaping the Johannesburg hustle for open roads and scenic vistas, Chartered clients Huida and Granville set out on a motorcycle trip with a twist: Granville had a secret agenda – to scout potential semigration destinations. Little did they know, George would capture their hearts with its charm, natural beauty, and a hidden gem of a house waiting to be discovered. Their initial odyssey wound through towns like Prince Albert and Tulbagh, each offering unique flavours of life. While Port Owen’s remoteness didn’t resonate, Gordons Bay, a place they loved, didn’t offer any houses that ..read more

For many families, the mere thought of discussing end-of-life plans sends shivers down their spines. Laden with anxieties and unspoken worries, these conversations often get pushed aside, creating an even heavier burden down the line. Parents might grapple with a mix of emotions – fear, anxiety, even guilt at needing support or burdening their children. Children, in turn, may worry about upsetting their parents by raising the topic. But here’s the truth: discussing end-of-life plans isn’t a morbid exercise; it’s a gift of clarity and peace of mind for everyone involved. Let’s explore the contr ..read more

Unlocking your best life – intentionally The post A message from Kim Potgieter appeared first on Retire Successfully ..read more

Dying is a subject that many of us skirt around, finding it morbid and unsettling, especially when it concerns ourselves or close family and friends. Lydia Dugdale, Associate Professor of Medicine and director of the Center for Clinical Medical Ethics at Colombia University, is an internal medicine primary care doctor who believes that our approach and attitude to dying have changed to our detriment in the modern world. Dugdale was inspired to write her book after coming across literature originating in the 15th century. The genre was known as ars moriendi (the art of dying) – a handbook for d ..read more

Give back is one of the key components of the Wheel of Balance. It’s important to note that giving back goes beyond charity work; it’s about making a positive impact and establishing a lasting legacy. This can take various forms, including volunteering, mentoring, or supporting causes that align with your values. At Chartered, we strongly believe in giving back, not just during retirement but throughout our lives. That’s why we promote integrating giving back into the lives of our clients and staff. We provide numerous opportunities throughout the year for staff members to participate in give ..read more