This distinction brings us to a vital concept in modern wellness: the difference between lifespan and health span. Understanding this gap is the key to maximizing how we spend the years we have enjoying all that our Club, and life in general, has to offer us.

Lifespan:
The Quantity of Time

Lifespan is the total number of years a person lives from birth to death. Thanks to advancements in medicine, sanitation and nutrition, the average lifespan in developed nations has increased significantly over the past century. We are seeing more centurions than ever before and many of those living longer have active lives. While living longer is generally seen as positive, the focus on lifespan alone can be misleading. A longer life is only valuable if we can fully participate in it and enjoy the things we love to do with great ease.

Health Span:
Quality in the Quantity of Time

Health span, by contrast, is the period of life spent in good health, both mentally and physically, free from chronic disease and disability that can be debilitating. It’s a measure of vitality and function — the years when you wake up with less pain, can hike a trail with vigor, play energetically with grandchildren and confidently engage in activities you love without being hampered by illness. The goal of modern wellness isn’t just to extend the finish line, but to maximize the distance we run before the finish line. We must find ways to maximize the quality of our health with the quantity we are given. 

Bridging the Gap:
Our Role in Health Span

The good news is that health span is far more within our control than lifespan. While genetics play a role, lifestyle choices are the primary drivers of vitality and disease prevention. This is where your choices are the investment you make in your health. Here are a few ways we can work together to boost your health span:

• Move Your Body (consistently): Do all the activities, from walking to gardening to your favorite sports. But move most of the day. This includes a good stretching regimen. Consistent movement helps manage weight, gives you energy through the circulatory system, strengthens your muscles and cardiovascular system and maintains joint mobility. 
• Prioritize Nutrition: If you are eating junk food, your body will feel like junk. Eat whole foods, avoiding processed products. Reduce alcohol consumption. It adds extra calories the body doesn’t need and causes inflammation in the body and brain. We have the Ranch Fit menu and Chef Isaac’s team offers healthy versions of your favorite dishes. Adding more protein to your meals gives your body the strength it needs to get through a day full of workouts, errands or a round of golf.
• Engage Socially: Strong social connections are vital to the mind’s health and longevity. We have so many wonderful events to engage in at Cordillera Ranch. Playing Mahjong or bridge with friends, enjoying a book club or attending Bible study are several good examples, and there are so many more! Meeting a friend to workout with or taking a fitness class together are great ways to engage the body and mind!
• Embrace Rest and Recovery: Health isn’t just built through activity — it’s maintained through the ebbs and flows of life. Having a healthy balance of activity and true rest is one of the secrets of destressing your life. Mindful relaxation out here in the Hill Country is a task that is easy to master!

Ultimately, lifespan is about existence while health span is living life to the fullest. By positively focusing on present moments and rich qualities of life, we can have one with independence, vitality and joy.

Let’s make the most of every year together. Here’s to your health!