Today is the astronomical first day of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. Let’s pounce on active and fun summer solstice activities this week!

The Weekly Pounce provides science-backed healthspan tips that we call the Pounce Pot Protocol. Each week, you can help power up your future self by integrating these five evidence-based longevity and pro-aging strategies into your routine. 

It’s not too late (and it’s never too early) to pounce on life’s possibilities! Join in on our supportive community. We can achieve more together! Need to catch up? Read our archive here.

One of the best ways to boost your brain is to keep learning. It’s fun and beneficial to learn something new each and every day. And the topics are endless.

This week, rediscover the facts about the summer solstice, “occurring when Earth arrives at the point in its orbit where the North Pole is at its maximum tilt (about 23.5 degrees) toward the Sun.”

Learn how ancient civilizations marked the occasion…and how they even knew about it. Watch this to learn more.

Keep an eye out this summer for local events like farmers' markets, outdoor concerts, or even clean-up days. Showing up and participating gives you an instant common interest with others and a natural talking point.

Try using the following search methods for finding events: Type [Your Town Name] followed by:

• events today (ex: Columbia events today)

• things to do this weekend (Atlanta things to do this weekend)

• community calendar (Chapel Hill community calendar)

• festivals (Greenville festivals in June)

• or try events near (Events near Kansas City)

And remember, planning to attend an event and anticipating it for a few weeks is beneficial, too!

Just being near water enhances our mental health. Whether we’re sitting on a beach, by a lake, or near a stream, seeing and hearing water calms us down.

Learn more about this blue space concept, or listen to the sounds of the ocean tonight.

Relaxing in a hot bath infused with Epsom salts can be another way to unwind and harness your hidden powers to control your stress. This is hands down my favorite bath salt for a long, relaxing soak.

This week, consider adding one or two more protein-forward dishes into your meals and picnics.

Work on increasing your protein until you reach an optimal level. Older adults should aim for the “high end” of recommended levels.

Remember, protein is not a synonym for “meat.” This list of high-protein vegetables, grain, beans, and legumes is worth repeating—and keeping on file for your weekly meal planning.

I know I suggested that you drag out your dusty sewing machine last week, but summer’s here! Let’s go swimming instead!

Turns out, gliding through the water isn't just a fantastic way to stay active; it's also doing wonders for your brain. From boosting your mood and zapping stress to actually helping your brain grow new cells for better memory and sharper thinking, swimming is basically a superpower for your cognitive reserve.

Want to read more research? Check it out here.