A Variety of Activities Leads to Better Health and Longer Lifespan

(Illustrative Only)

There has long been debate about the best way to get in shape and improve physical fitness. One thing that consistently shows up in research is that nutrition plays a major role but so does the type of activities you do. Having a variety of workouts and eating right helps out immensly. Ensuring you are engaging in various activities and routines can lead to higher health and lifespan.

Another issue is repetition. Many people perform the same workouts over and over without enough variation or recovery. Runners may run daily without taking downtime, while weightlifters may repeat the same routines without strengthening stabilizer muscles or improving overall mobility. Over time, this can increase the risk of injury, burnout, and boredom.

A lot of people eventually lose motivation because they do not enjoy repeating the same gym routine every day. Traditional workouts can also consume a significant amount of time, especially for people balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. Spending one to two hours in the gym every day is not realistic or enjoyable for everyone.

For many people, a more balanced and sustainable approach is variety. Activities like rowing, hiking, biking, boxing, fencing, surfing, yoga, Pilates, climbing, or recreational sports challenge the body in different ways. These forms of movement help develop stabilizer muscles, coordination, mobility, endurance, and functional strength while keeping exercise more engaging and enjoyable.

Functional and varied activities can also build lean muscle tone without necessarily focusing on size or bodybuilding. Many athletes, including climbers and endurance athletes, use movements like yoga or bodyweight training to build strength through balance, control, and muscular fatigue.

The study below highlights the value of this type of variety in physical activity. Researchers found that people who participated in a broader range of activities and maintained higher overall levels of movement had lower risks of cardiovascular disease, cancer, respiratory illness, and overall mortality.

For people who do not enjoy going to the gym every day, this research offers an important reminder: staying active does not have to mean repeating the same workout endlessly. Functional movement, outdoor recreation, sports, and varied physical activities can all contribute to long-term health, fitness, and sustainability. Mix it up!

I have a fitness trainers and yoga license and can help you start a new look and achieve some of your goals. I do this on the side and virtually for around $50 per hour. I try and give away anout half of what I make from these hobbies to charities. Sometimes it helps to have a few sessions and then check back in a few months to change around your routine. I can make a routine that works for you. Adults only please. If interested send a message to the right or an email at muradabel@gmail.com

 Physical Activity Types, Variety, and Mortality: Results From Two Prospective Cohort Studies

• The study examined how different types and combinations of physical activity relate to mortality risk using data from the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study.
• Researchers found that higher overall physical activity levels were associated with lower risks of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease mortality, cancer mortality, and respiratory disease mortality.
• Engaging in a wider variety of physical activities, rather than relying on only one type, was linked with additional health benefits and reduced mortality risk.
• The study accounted for many lifestyle and health-related variables, including diet, smoking, alcohol intake, body mass index, and pre-existing health conditions, strengthening the reliability of the findings.
• Researchers suggested that combining multiple forms of exercise—such as walking, stair climbing, recreational sports, and other activities—may contribute to healthier aging and longer life expectancy.

Han, H., et al. (2026). Physical activity types, variety, and mortality: Results from two prospective cohort studies. BMJ Medicine, 5(1), e001513. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjmed-2025-001513

California Coast and Ocean Report 2026 Indicates Descent Health with Concerns (Fishing and the Coast in Pictures)

Boats in the Bay
Photo for Sale.
$50 for most
print sizes and shipping.
See info below. 

If you care about California’s coastline—the ocean, fishing, kayaking, and the broader outdoor environment—it helps to stay informed through coastal health reports like this one. They provide a science-based snapshot of how the coast is doing and where emerging risks are showing up.

Overall, the most recent findings suggest the coastline is generally in descent condition, though there are important areas of concern. The report draws on the expertise of more than 120 scientists and highlights ongoing pressures from climate change and biodiversity loss.

One of the most significant issues is the decline of kelp forests, particularly in Northern California, where large portions have disappeared in recent years. This matters because kelp ecosystems support fish populations, marine wildlife, and overall coastal resilience. Understanding why kelp is declining—and how to restore it—is becoming a key environmental priority.

Ocean Beach Pier
Photo for Sale.
$50 for most
print sizes and shipping.
See info below. 

More broadly, this reflects a shift in how we approach environmental management. Instead of only responding after damage occurs, there is growing capacity through science and technology to anticipate problems and actively support ecosystem recovery. That includes efforts like habitat restoration, pollution reduction, and more integrated coastal water management systems that better separate urban runoff from natural ocean systems.

There are also ongoing challenges tied to wastewater and cross-border pollution issues, including flows affecting Southern California coastal waters. These concerns have economic, environmental, and quality-of-life impacts, which are increasingly part of policy discussions.

At the same time, coastal stewardship continues to evolve through conservation efforts, infrastructure improvements, and scientific monitoring aimed at protecting long-term ocean health.

*I'm an amateur artist and was approved to join a local fine arts association for my photography. I'm hoping to have my paintings included at some point. I can print and send most size photos for about $50. If you want something different let me know by sending me a message to the right and/or use my email. About half of profits go to charities and the other half I go eat lunch and support this writing. My Arts Page and My Gallery. muradabel@gmail.com

Commercial Fishing Boats
Photo for Sale.
$50 for most
print sizes and shipping.
See info below. 

California Coast and Ocean Report: Status, Progress, and What’s Ahead

• The 2026 report evaluates 14 major indicators of California’s coastal and ocean health with input from more than 120 scientists.
• Climate change and biodiversity loss are identified as the leading threats to California’s coastline and marine ecosystems.
• Nearly half of Ocean Protection Council projects since 2022 have supported environmental justice and tribal communities.
• Beach water quality remains mostly safe for swimming, although recent heavy rainfall has slightly reduced conditions in some areas.
• Public coastal access has expanded to more than 1,200 access points, making much of the coastline more accessible to residents and visitors.
• Most commercial fisheries remain stable, but climate-related impacts have caused serious challenges, including the closure of the salmon fishery.
• Marine mammal populations are generally recovering, though gray whales and killer whales have shown recent population declines.
• Northern California has lost more than 95% of its kelp forests over the last decade, highlighting severe habitat degradation.
• California has launched major resilience and restoration projects, including the removal of four Klamath River dams in 2024 to improve salmon habitats.
• Sea levels along California’s coast have risen 6–8 inches over the past century and are expected to continue accelerating through 2050.

California Ocean Protection Council. (2026). California coast and ocean report: Status, progress, and what’s ahead. https://opc.ca.gov/report

The Economic Report of the President (April 2026)

(Illustrative Only)

Jack looks at 
the report and is
thinking about 
how to align his
maple syrup business
to maximize on 
changes.

The Economic Report of the President was released in April 2026. It is beneficial to stay informed about economic news and to understand the policies being implemented. Corporations often evaluate each administration’s economic approach to determine how they should respond to market conditions. Government policies can significantly influence how businesses operate within a country.

By reviewing reports like this, we gain insight into potential economic changes and the priorities shaping future policy decisions. Each chapter below has been summarized because the full report is extensive. An APA reference and link are included so you can review the report in its entirety if desired.

The more informed you are, the greater the likelihood of making strong strategic decisions related to investments, business planning, hiring and overall operations.

Chapter 1: The Economic and Fiscal Benefits of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

The OBBBA is described as the largest tax cut in American history, intended to permanently extend lower tax rates and full expensing for capital investments.

Projections indicate the act will increase real GDP by 4.6 to 4.9 percent over its first four years and reduce federal debt to 94 percent of GDP over a decade.

Chapter 2: Promoting Prosperity through Regulatory Reform

The administration implemented a 10-for-1 rule, requiring agencies to eliminate 10 existing regulations for every new one introduced.

A regulatory cost cap was established to ensure new compliance costs remain at or below zero, while sunsetting provisions are used to remove obsolete rules.

Chapter 3: Rebuilding America's International Trade Policy

Trade policy focuses on using tariffs to counter unfair foreign practices and rebuild domestic manufacturing in sectors like steel, aluminum, and automobiles.

These measures aim to reduce persistent trade deficits and have already secured trillions in pledged investment into the United States.

Chapter 4: Achieving Energy Dominance to Power American Prosperity

The administration seeks energy abundance by removing red tape, shortening permitting timelines, and ending preferential treatment for intermittent energy sources.

Executive orders were issued to block state-level climate regulations that conflict with federal energy goals or impose high penalties on energy companies.

Chapter 5: The Revolution of Artificial Intelligence

The 2025 AI Action Plan focuses on attaining international dominance in AI by accelerating innovation and rapidly building data center infrastructure.

International trade deals have secured commitments for billions of dollars in purchases of American-made AI chips.

Chapter 6: Protecting and Rebuilding the American Dream of Homeownership

This chapter addresses the reduction of housing costs by expanding the housing supply and addressing the impact of illegal immigration on demand.

The administration aims to create a sounder fiscal path to lower interest rates and make mortgages more affordable for American families.

Chapter 7: Strengthening America's Industrial Supply Chains

Pro-growth tax and trade policies are used to incentivize companies to move manufacturing and hiring back to the United States.

The goal is to reduce reliance on foreign nations for goods and materials that are critical to the national economy.

Chapter 8: Strengthening the United States' Defense Industrial Base

This chapter highlights the necessity of rebuilding domestic industrial capacity to ensure the military has the resources needed for national security.

Economic strength is framed as a foundational requirement for maintaining a robust defense posture against global competitors.

Chapter 9: Work Means More Than Making a Living: Labor, Challenges, and Opportunity

Labor policies prioritize job growth for legal residents by reducing illegal immigration and curbing the expansion of the public sector.

The OBBBA provides tax relief on tips and overtime to help workers recover purchasing power lost to previous inflation.

Chapter 10: The Economic Consequences of DEI

The administration took action to end government diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, characterizing them as a form of regulatory overreach.

The chapter examines how these programs affect economic efficiency and the allocation of talent in the workforce.

Chapter 11: Making America Healthy by Unleashing Competition in Physicians' Markets

This chapter focuses on lowering healthcare costs by reducing administrative expenses and increasing competition among medical providers.

The goal is to improve retail access to healthcare and make medical services more affordable for the average family.

Chapter 12: Unlocking Retail Access to Private Equity Investments through Defined Contribution Plans

The report explores allowing individual investors to include private equity in their retirement plans to help build long-term wealth.

This initiative aims to provide retail investors with access to the higher potential returns typically reserved for institutional investors.

Chapter 13: The Cost of Capital Misallocation to ESG Investments with an Environmental Focus

The administration criticizes environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing for misallocating capital away from efficient economic growth.

The chapter argues that such investment focuses can lead to higher costs and reduced competitiveness for American businesses.

Chapter 14: The Year in Review and the Years Ahead

Real GDP grew by 2.0 percent in 2025, and the administration forecasts a steady growth rate of 3.0 percent annually for the next 11 years.

Projections include stable inflation, lower interest rates, and a labor market where job growth is driven primarily by the private sector.

APA Reference Council of Economic Advisers. (2026). Economic report of the President: Together with the annual report of the Council of Economic Advisers. U.S. Government Publishing Office. https://www.whitehouse.gov/releases/2026/04/2026-economic-report-of-the-president-released/

Blaming the Victims in Fraud, Corruption and Hate: The Need to Protect Institutional Integrity (The Allegory of the Clan)

(Illustrative Only)
We must learn from history
before its too late. 

Hate and corruption exist in every society; they are part of its darker undercurrent. The extent to which they persist often depends on the strength of a society’s institutions and how effectively those institutions are able to function. When courts and public institutions operate inconsistently, lose public trust, undermine social contracts, or fail to uphold equal justice, it signals deeper systemic problems. Freedom of speech exists in part to help identify those problems and improve the system.

We share a collective responsibility to support the institutions that uphold justice and protect the public, including the many dedicated individuals who serve their communities with integrity. At the same time, society also has a responsibility to identify wrongdoing, correct abuses of power, and strengthen checks and balances so harm is less likely to be repeated. Failing to do so weakens public trust and raises questions about whether public duties and oaths are being honored in practice rather than simply recited in form.

In our learning example, the “Allegory of the Clan,” modeled as a modern thought experiment inspired by the Allegory of the Cave, institutions appeared to permit the undermining of victims despite awareness of targeted racial or religious hostility, intimidation of witnesses, and manipulative behavior designed to isolate and damage individuals. The concern raised in this example is not merely punishment, but the failure to pursue justice and accountability. When wrongdoing is incentivized or ignored, it creates conditions where harmful behavior can continue and expand.

Not everyone agrees on how society should respond to these responsibilities. Throughout history, allegories and narratives have explored the tension between ignorance and awareness, justice and injustice, and the struggle to build a more informed and equitable society. Such stories attempt to encourage reflection and reform, though not all people accept those perspectives. In some cases, extremist or deeply divisive beliefs can coexist within institutions themselves, making reform more difficult and further eroding trust.

It is also important to recognize that victims of wrongdoing are often at a disadvantage. They may lack resources, influence, or institutional support, making them easier to dismiss or marginalize. In some situations, out-groups are dehumanized or treated as lesser, reducing empathy and accountability. Division based on race, religion, politics, or identity can become a means of consolidating power, while victims are portrayed unfairly as the source of conflict rather than the targets of it. In the learning example, the argument is that identity-based bias and hostility toward dissent weakened democratic principles and undermined equal treatment under the law.

Because of this, supporting victims and strengthening institutions requires intentional effort. Societies function best when fairness, accountability, and public integrity are valued over corruption, favoritism, or political expediency. Constructive change comes from improving institutions where possible, advocating for equal treatment, and ensuring accountability when harm occurs. Removing individuals who openly reward corruption or embrace hate is necessary to protect both current and future victims.

The increasing politicization of institutions and the influence of powerful interests can also distort decision-making and weaken public confidence. Ultimately, every person in a position of authority must decide whom they serve: the broader principles of justice and the public good, or personal interests and social networks. Blaming victims does not strengthen institutions, improve outcomes, or advance morality. History, science, and ethics repeatedly demonstrate that societies are healthier when they protect rights, uphold accountability, and resist the normalization of corruption and prejudice.

Consider, as well, the broader research and discussion surrounding victim-blaming and the financial or social incentives that sometimes reinforce it. In the learning example, there appeared to be clear incentives tied to suppressing the rights, safety, and credibility of certain individuals. Whether driven by corruption, prejudice, institutional self-protection, or personal gain, these dynamics are unfortunately neither rare nor historically unique. We choose the rings we kiss.

Blame And Shame In The Context Of Financial Fraud

• The report examines the deep-rooted culture of victim-blaming in financial fraud, identifying how interpersonal, institutional, and societal factors contribute to the "shame" felt by victims.

• Psychological mechanisms like attribution bias and the "just world theory" lead others to blame victims as a way to feel safe from similar threats, which ultimately discourages victims from reporting the crime.

• The FINRA Foundation and AARP advocate for a fundamental shift in narrative to move away from victim culpability and toward perpetrator accountability to better support victims and improve legal outcomes.

Finra Investor Education Foundation & AARP Fraud Watch Network. (2022). Blame and shame in the context of financial fraud: A movement to change our societal response to a rampant and growing crime. https://www.finrafoundation.org/sites/finrafoundation/files/Blame-and-Shame-in-the-Context-of-Financial-Fraud.pdf

*The Allegory of the Clan is a learning thought experiment so take with a grain of salt and come to whatever conclusion you wish. 

Seagulls on the Beach Painting

 This is an 8X10" acrylic painting I completed a few months ago. It is for sale if you are interested.  Beaches sort of bring out the best in people and provide a level of open air environment. There is a reason why we gravitate to beaches and nature. 

Seagulls on the Beach eBay and My Arts Page

If you are interested in this painting you may buy on eBay, send me a message to the right or an email. I can even do custom paintings. Half for helping others and half for the effort. If interested send a message to the right or an email at muradabel@gmail.com

What it might look like. Not to scale size. Looks pretty neat!

San Diego Budget Information and Meeting May 18th, 2026

(Illustative Only)

San Diego is facing a budget deficit of something like $120 million, and city leaders are asking for public input on how to address it. They want feedback on where funding should be allocated, what services should be reduced or adjusted, and what changes could help improve the city’s long-term financial stability. If your a person who lives in San Diego you have the right to voice your opinion on the topic.

It’s important to remember that budget challenges like this develop over time. They are tied to long-term spending trends, rising costs, and ongoing financial decisions — not something that happened overnight. Solving the issue will likely require a combination of increasing revenue, reducing certain expenses, improving efficiency, and reevaluating services that may no longer be as effective or necessary. It could be beneficial to rethink things from top to bottom. 

There will naturally be many different opinions about what matters most. Some people may prioritize the arts, parks, public safety, infrastructure, or community programs, while others may feel spending should shift in different directions. Because so many interests are involved, finding solutions will not be simple. Providing your input can help to ensure new ideas come forward. Public participation is important. Residents can help by providing honest feedback, sharing ideas, and working together on practical solutions. I thought this piece on Rethinking Budget Core Principles was interesting.

There is a survey available below where people can submit their opinions and suggestions. Community meetings are also a good opportunity to learn more, ask questions, and participate in discussions about the city’s future. If you are in the San Diego area, you can visit the webpage, complete the survey once, and share your input with city leaders.

The City of San Diego has some important dates and information at San Diego Budget Information. It looks like the survey is still on there. 

6:00 pm May 18th – City Council Public Input Budget Hearing

City Council Chamber, 12th Floor of City Hall

Job Seekers Not Feeling So Great About Their Jobs and Seek Options (2026)

Job seekers, according to the survey below, appear to be increasingly focused on nontraditional career paths. Some of this shift may be tied to concerns about stability, wages, and long-term opportunity. Many workers may feel that traditional employers are not always providing the flexibility or career growth they want. Wages don't often rise as fast as inflation.

Economic uncertainty is also playing a major role. When companies are unsure about future growth, they often delay hiring decisions or postpone expanding into new products and services that would require additional employees. As a result, many job seekers are exploring alternative forms of work, including freelance and contract opportunities. While freelance work may not always provide stability, it can sometimes increase income potential and offer greater independence.

People are also searching for more meaning and fulfillment in their work. In addition, small business ownership remains an option worth considering for young professionals and individuals entering the workforce, even though it was not specifically discussed in the survey. Creating a level of balance in one's life and organization can help increase retention.

Another issue affecting job seekers is the increasingly complicated hiring process. Many applications require extensive forms, multiple screenings, background checks, and long interview stages. Applicants often become frustrated because these processes can take a significant amount of time, especially when they are competing with many other candidates for the same position. Even with digital applications, many systems still require repetitive manual entry, making the process feel time-consuming and discouraging.

If your seeking some career coaching let me know and we can do something virtually. About $50 for a session I try and give away about half of what I might make from these hobbies after expenses to charities. Half for helping others and half for the effort. If interested send a message to the right or an email at muradabel@gmail.com

The information from the survey below, 

Job Seekers Redefining Career Priorities

• Many job seekers are shifting their focus away from traditional career advancement and prioritizing flexibility, work-life balance, and personal well-being over prestige or title growth.
• Economic uncertainty and a difficult hiring market are causing workers to value job security and stability more heavily than in previous years.
• Applicants are increasingly open to career pivots, freelance work, temporary jobs, and alternative employment paths as long-term unemployment and hiring slowdowns continue.
• Many workers are questioning whether traditional career paths provide long-term fulfillment, leading them to seek meaningful work environments, supportive cultures, and employers that align with their values.
• Complicated hiring processes, including lengthy applications and multiple interview stages, are frustrating candidates and contributing to disengagement during the job search process.

Ockerman, E. (2025). Job seekers feel awful about the labor market. Data is finally starting to explain why. Yahoo Finance. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/job-seekers-feel-awful-about-the-labor-market-data-is-finally-starting-to-explain-why-162045577.html