My son Elliott (8) and I took a trip to Sydney, Australia over spring break. I love to explore the world with my wife and sons. We often travel together as a family, but sometimes we take one on one trips to bond and build a catalogue of fond memories together. Moreover, I enjoy being in a new place and experiencing a different culture with my sons. I’m fascinated at how other people interpret and live in the world around them. It opens my mind to new ways of life, and keeps things fresh and exciting. Most importantly, I believe the best place to find myself is when I’m lost. I am comfortable being in a new place because I cannot grow if I stay in the same location for too long. Experiencing the culture of clean living in Sydney, Australia was something I didn’t expect.
Finding Meaning in Travel
Everywhere I go, I always try to take a piece of knowledge back home with me. International travel would be pointless if we didn’t learn something from the experience. For example, Cambodia taught me about mediation and Buddhism. I tried surfing in Hawaii and swallowed mouthfuls of saltwater. And, how can I forget the Rarotonga Avis Lady who showed me that true kindness is priceless and free?
As far as life lessons go, I thought Sydney would present a challenge. After all, it’s a modern metropolis where English is widely spoken, and all of the everyday conveniences we enjoy in Las Vegas are available. The city outwardly appears just like home. So, what could I possibly learn from a place so similar?
All I had to do was look around and see that things were a bit different, and the contrasts were apparent on my first walk with Elliott to the Opera House. We saw very few morbidly obese people. There were very almost no mobility scooters, and people seemed to enjoy walking at a brisk pace. In general, Sydneysiders are physically active, in shape, and are much more fit than most people in the United States. They have a culture of clean living in Sydney, Australia that I have yet to experience and enjoy back home. There are huge parks and gardens that offer walking trails. Fresh food is readily available and inexpensive compared to junk. Most importantly, Sydneysiders are very environmentally conscious. The city is neat as a pin.
Sydney’s Green Spaces
Situated among the architectural masterpiece of the Opera House and the engineering marvel of Harbour Bridge, are numerous parks, beaches, walking trails, and gardens. These settings offer fantastic opportunities for Sydneysiders and visitors to enjoy the outdoors and get some fresh air.
During our visit, Elliott and I took the ferry to Manly. I highly recommend this because the views of the city and harbor are amazing. Manly has a gorgeous beach on the ocean, and another on a little cove by the ferry terminal. The oceanside beach was very rough on the day we went, and the lifeguards closed it to swimming. The cove, however, was calm and clean. It offered the perfect spot for Elliott to play in the sand, swim in the water, and make a new friend. Yes, those are shark nets in the photo.
Fresh Food is Readily Available
I also noticed that Sydney’s food scene focuses on freshness and clean eating. I was impressed by the availability of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and healthy choices at Sydney’s restaurants. The owners seem aware of the residents’ preoccupation with health, and seem keen to offer healthy choices to their patrons. It’s clear the culture of clean living in Sydney, Australia influences them too.
For example, Costi’s – a local fish and chips chain – offers very healthy options as an alternative to their delicious batter dipped fish and chips. Don’t get me wrong, the fried version is fantastic and I highly recommend it. However, at my age (51), there is just so much deep-fried food I should eat. Their grilled fish, brown rice, and salad option was a welcome alternative and just as delicious.
Environmental Awareness
Taking care of the environment is also important to Sydneysiders. Aside from being sparkling clean, they encourage recycling, maintain their green spaces, and are very cognizant of the wildlife. You will see many trash stations with recycling, regular waste, and composting options. Upon arrival at the airport, you will also notice that customs is very strict on what may be brought into the country. There are also signs reminding people to look out for their unique wildlife.
Clean Living is Vital to Aging Well
Like most people, aging is not something I want to embrace and I’m frustrated at how quickly time passes. At 51, I am starting to notice the effects of getting older. My hair is grayer, jowls are forming around my mouth, and my forehead is criss-crossed with wrinkles. I need glasses to read, drive, and use a computer. My waistline seems to expand more and more with each meal, and I have to be very careful with my food choices. And then there is the worst part – I feel the pain of arthritis and joint degeneration and have to limit my activities a little. Growing older isn’t something for the faint at heart. It takes strength, fortitude, and acceptance.
When I reflect on it, I find it interesting how easy it is to let myself go as I age. I no longer feel the need to look after my appearance as much. I’m happily married with two wonderful children, so whom do I need to attract or impress?
We also live in an era of self acceptance where we encourage body positivity. It’s normal to celebrate someone who is obese and call out those who shame them for being overweight and unhealthy. Somehow, it became now okay to be fat, and anyone who loses weight or makes dramatic changes to their appearance through diet and exercise are often shamed. Look what happened to Adele when she dropped a lot of weight. I don’t understand why some people feel the need to criticize people for improving their health.
My Take Away
So, while I am not willing to embrace aging, I accept it. After visiting Sydney and briefly experiencing their culture of clean living, I feel compelled to give it a try. I am not doing it because I want to look good (although it’s a nice benefit), rather I want to feel good and have more energy. More importantly, I believe caring more about my health and well being is vital to growing old well so that I may continue to provide for my family, do what I love, and be there for them for as long as possible. To me, it’s an act of love to myself and others so we may continue to grow, live, and explore the world together.
