Inspired Life 2025 by MyNorth

SEASONS OF STRENGTH

TThe Northern Michigan landscape invites an adventurous life—here’s how to embrace it at any age.

by MEAGAN FRANCIS

he years after 55 used to be seen as the season for slowing down. But today’s older adults are rethinking everything about that tired paradigm, instead expressing their vitality by embracing a new season of exploration, adventure and connection.

Few regions are more perfectly attuned to nature-based adventure than Northern Michigan, with its four distinct seasons and endless opportunities for outdoor play in jaw-droppingly beautiful surroundings. And that’s good news for those choosing to spend retirement years here, since science overwhelmingly supports continued adventure as we age, making activity an investment in longevity, vitality and independence.

Staying active in pursuits we love keeps us functionally fit, but the benefits of regular activity extend well beyond the physical.

Dr. Aubrey Jabour, owner of Northbound Physical Therapy and Wellness in Traverse City, has made it her mission to help people live pain-free, mobile and engaged lives. Most of her clients, she says, are people who either want to remain active in the sports and activities they love, or are looking for support as they return to movement after an injury or setback. And for those clients, she has one piece of advice: keep moving.

“I like the expression borrowed from Newton’s first law, ‘a body in motion stays

in motion,’” says Jabour. “Our bodies are designed for regular movement. If you keep moving, your body will typically keep doing the things you regularly ask it to do. But when you stop, your capacity declines: muscles weaken, balance fades and mobility suffers.”

Jabour recommends following the national guidelines of at least 150 minutes of moderateintensity or 75 minutes of high-intensity activity each week, and emphasizes the importance of spending those minutes doing something you enjoy, whether that’s a cold-water dip into Lake Michigan in the spring, paddling a peaceful river in the summer, crunching through newly fallen leaves on a fall hike or gliding over snowy trails on cross-country skis in winter.

Here’s our guide for staying active and strong, from season to season, all year long:

SUMMER

Kayaking and Canoeing. Paddling inland lakes, rivers or even the Great Lakes shoreline is a low-impact, meditative way to enjoy nature. Rentals and tours are available from The Outfitter of Harbor Springs or Big Bear Adventures in Indian River.

Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP). Build core strength and balance while gliding across calm morning waters. Head to Zoll Street Beach in Harbor Springs or Elk Lake near Elk Rapids for beginner-friendly launch sites.

PERSONALIZED APPROACH TO

PATIENT CARE

Pickleball and Tennis. Fast-growing and easy to learn, pickleball is a favorite for active older adults. Indoor courts, like those at the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA—where pickleball has been a steadily-growing trend—allows for a respite from very hot weather. Petoskey Pickleball Club and Bay Tennis and Fitness also offer indoor and outdoor play options.

Outdoor Yoga and Tai Chi. Many Northern Michigan towns offer seasonal outdoor movement classes in parks and along the lakeshore. Look for sunrise yoga at Petoskey State Park, tai chi on the beach in Marquette, and a variety of “moving meditation” opportunities throughout the region.

FALL

Hiking and Forest Bathing. Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage make fall perfect for long hikes. Explore the trails at Thorne Swift Nature Preserve in Harbor Springsor Avalanche Mountain Preserve in Boyne City. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers a variety of accessible trails for enjoying stunning shoreline scenery.

E-Biking and Gravel Biking. Take to the quiet country roads and forested trails that define Northern Michigan. E-bikes, including fancy mountainbike versions, help riders of all fitness levels enjoy longer rides and push through difficult climbs. Suggested routes include the Leelanau Trail (from Traverse City to Suttons Bay), Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail (through the national lakeshore), and the Little Traverse Wheelway (linking Charlevoix, Petoskey and Harbor Springs). The Top of Michigan Trails Council provides maps and trail recommendations for gravel and multi-use paths like the North Central State Trail.

WINTER

Nordic Skiing. Cross-country skiing is lowimpact and great cardio, and groomed trails abound throughout the region. Opt for a lesson at Forbush Corner, or hop on the groomed loops at Nub's nob in Harbor Springs, Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville or Vasa Pathway in Traverse City.

Snowshoeing. A peaceful way to explore snowy woods and open fields in snowier conditions. Check out the trails at Bear River Recreation Area or Grass River Natural Area, which often offer guided hikes.

Ice Skating and Curling. Seasonal rinks pop up in downtowns and parks, like The Village of Walloon Lake and Suttons Bay. The Petoskey Winter Sports Park features outdoor skating and a community curling league, and Traverse City’s curling club has a steadily growing member base.

Indoor Aquatics and Fitness. Keep fitness gains and cross train when it’s icy outside with lap swimming, water aerobics or strength training. Harbor Springs Community Pool and Charlevoix Area Community Pool both offer winter programs for adults.

Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage make fall perfect for long hikes

photo by Dave Weidner

Dan Jonkhoff Funeral Director Emeritus

Chris Jonkhoff-Hater Funeral Director, CFSP

Fat bikes let you ride all winter long

Fat Biking. With wide tires made for snow, fat bikes let you ride all winter long. Glacial Hills Pathway near Bellaire and Crystal Mountain’s winter trails are both popular for groomed fat-biking routes; Grand Traverse Bike Tours runs guided fatbike adventures.

SPRING

Birding Walks. Spring migration is a treat for birdwatchers. Join a guided walk to explore local habitats and spot returning species. Little Traverse Conservancy and Petoskey Audubon host spring birding events at preserves like Round Lake and Waldron Fen. The Straits are legendary for spring and fall raptor migration, and the Seney Wildlife Refuge in the U.P. is on every birder’s bucket list.

Cold-Water Swimming. Brave locals take to Lake Michigan and inland lakes in early spring, using wetsuits to manage the chill. It's invigorating and builds mental and physical resilience. The Happy Winter Swim Club in Traverse City meets weekly for cold-water dips, late October through May.

Spring Foraging Walks. Early-season wild edibles like ramps, morel mushrooms and fiddleheads are abundant in Northern Michigan. Look for guided hikes and workshops through organizations like Kalkaska Conservation District.

Indoor Fitness Classes. As the weather warms but remains unpredictable, spring is a great time to refocus on strength, mobility and balance. Andrew Page, CEO of the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA, notes that the Y is experiencing strong participation in group exercise classes year-round, particularly among senior members.

SAFETY IN STRENGTH

While outdoor adventures are a great way to connect with nature and stay moving, older adults are increasingly opting

to supplement their open-air adventures with focused indoor mobility and strength training to help them stay strong, stable and flexible.

At the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA, Page notes that senior members make up a significant portion of group fitness classes and activities like swimming, weightlifting and resistance training, even during the typically quieter summer months. Personal training sessions are also on the rise, often tailored to help participants prepare for seasonal sports like skiing or golf.

If your favorite activities are seasonal, Jabour recommends maintaining a baseline level of strength and cardiovascular endurance during the off-season. “That way, you’re ready to get back into it safely and enjoyably when the time comes—think of it as off-season training for real life,” she says.

MOVEMENT IS MEDICINE—AND CONNECTION

Sports and outdoor recreation in later life isn’t just about muscles or mobility. It’s also one of the most effective ways to stay connected and combat loneliness, a major risk factor for declining health.

“Movement is even better when it’s social,” says Jabour. “Joining a walking group, dance class or hiking club adds accountability, fun and a meaningful sense of connection. It supports your mental and emotional health as much as your physical well-being.”

In fact, one of the trends Jabour has noticed over the past decade is how many of her most active older clients stay engaged in their communities through group activities, whether it’s skiing with friends or volunteering at a local garden. “Studies have shown that what we believe about aging is powerful,” says Jabour. “If you expect pain and reduced mobility as you age, you’re less likely to stay active or seek help. That expectation becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.”

Jabour believes that with the right mindset, tools and support, older adults in Northern Michigan can continue to enjoy plenty of adventures and even discover new ones.

The Human Touch

The key to healthy aging? Emotional connection. Here’s how it changes everything.

by KIRSETIN K. MORELLO

According to a 2021 AARP survey, nearly 80 percent of adults age 50 and older hope to grow older in the comfort of their own homes.

But aging in place isn’t always easy. As social circles shrink due to retirement, mobility issues or the loss of longtime friends and spouses, older adults often lose the everyday support and connection that make independent living possible.

The good news is that emotional connection can make a meaningful difference. While medical care supports physical health, strong relationships also nurture the brain and body—improving mood, memory and overall well-being.

When Leslie Knopp, co-owner of Comfort Keepers in Traverse City, reflects on the emotional side of aging, she thinks of a retired librarian who hired Comfort Keepers for light help two days a week. The woman, who was living alone and uneasy about driving, was “frustrated and unhappy at first,” Knopp says. “But over time, we became her support system and our role evolved.”

The relationship lasted over a decade. Eventually, the Comfort Keepers team worked alongside hospice to care for her through her final days. They read to her, watched “Dancing with the Stars” together and helped her die peacefully at home. “She laughed and enjoyed life right up until the end,” Knopp recalls. It’s a simple story, but a powerful reminder that emotional connection matters.

CONNECTION AND COGNITIVE HEALTH

Studies show that older adults with regular social interaction experience slower memory loss, lower stress levels and even greater longevity.

“People often think of aging in terms of physical decline,” Knopp says. “But mental and emotional well-being are equally vital.” Connection keeps people sharp and can translate to better sleep, improved appetite and a greater desire to stay active.

BARRIERS TO STAYING CONNECTED

Of course, staying socially engaged isn’t always simple. “Hearing loss can make conversation frustrating,” Knopp says. “Losing a spouse or the ability to drive can limit access to the people and places that once brought joy.”

But with creativity and the right support, older adults can remain connected. Nearby family members may help, but many appreciate outside help—whether arranging transportation, adapting technology or bringing social activities into the home.

THE ROLE OF IN-HOME COMPANIONSHIP

While in-home caregivers may assist with meals or errands, their deeper impact is often emotional. Having someone to talk to and share routines with plays an important role in keeping seniors mentally and emotionally engaged. What thriving looks like is deeply personal, but with the right support, older adults continue to grow and find joy. “When people feel seen and valued, they come alive again,” Knopp says.

Hiring a caregiver can feel daunting, but Knopp says that her company customizes every option and, just as important, truly cares for each individual. “All of our caregivers are screened for empathy. They’re also trained not just to do for clients, but to do with them.” That spirit of collaboration supports independence and dignity—and helps cultivate meaningful connection.

THE TAKEAWAY

As you support aging loved ones, remember that emotional connection is just as essential as physical care. Whether it comes through a trusted caregiver, a neighbor’s visit or regular check-ins from afar, consistent moments of presence can make a lasting difference. “Thriving in later life isn’t just about safety or health,” says Knopp. “It’s about purpose, dignity and connection.”

4 Keys to Thriving in Retirement

Thoughtfully designed communities in Northern Michigan show that where you live impacts how you live.

by KIRSETIN K. MORELLO

What does it mean to thrive in retirement?

For many, it’s less about slowing down and more about leaning in. People who thrive in retirement stay curious, connected and active. Thriving means having the time and freedom to focus on what brings joy and purpose. At its core, it’s about living with intention.

Moving to a retirement community can be a natural next step in that journey. The right environment makes all the difference. Thoughtfully designed communities, like The Village at Bay Ridge in Traverse City, help residents remain engaged, active and fulfilled.

“We often hear from new residents that there’s a welcoming liveliness and community,” says Kelse Berndt, marketing director at Bay Ridge. “There’s a sense of energy here that’s contagious.”

Thriving in retirement often comes down to four key factors: learning, purpose, community and wellness.

LIFELONG LEARNING

Staying mentally active is a powerful way to remain sharp. Enrichment opportunities, like health seminars or nutrition workshops, play a big role. When evaluating retirement communities, ask what they offer.

“We bring experts into Bay Ridge to talk about everything from diabetes management to local history,” Berndt says. By feeding curiosity and encouraging reflection, programs like these go a long way toward keeping the mind engaged.

PURPOSE AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

One of retirement’s greatest gifts is time—time to give back in meaningful ways. Volunteering, staying civically engaged or attending local events can offer a renewed sense of purpose and connection.

For example, some residents at Bay Ridge volunteer with nonprofits; others attend concerts, civic events or group outings. “Our seniors want to contribute in ways that make sense for this season of life,” explains Berndt. “We’re here to help that happen.”

SOCIAL CONNECTION

Connection is key to well-being in retirement. Because studies consistently show regular social interaction boosts mood and improves longevity, it pays to look for a community that fosters connection. Communities can help residents nurture relationships through events like weekly social hours and game nights.

They can also boost participation by encouraging residents’ interests, as Bay Ridge does with resident-led activities, like tai chi. “There’s a real sense of ownership here,” Berndt says. “We help promote activities, but the momentum comes from the people who live here.”

PHYSICAL WELLNESS AND MOVEMENT

Regular movement supports both physical and mental health—and retirement is an ideal time to prioritize both. Communities that emphasize wellness make it easier to stay active and feel your best. Where a community is situated can make a big difference, too.

Thanks to its setting in Traverse City, Bay Ridge’s residents enjoy easy access to the YMCA, TART Trail and The Village at Grand Traverse Commons—perfect for hiking, biking or a scenic stroll followed by coffee or lunch. On site, residents participate in instructor-led classes like Zumba Gold, work out in the gym or walk peaceful paths around the pond.

Wellness seminars and visits from local organizations round out the offerings. “There’s something for everyone,” Berndt says.

REIMAGINING RETIREMENT

Thriving in retirement starts with a mindset, but communities that emphasize learning, purpose, connection and movement give residents the tools to flourish.

“People tell us they didn’t realize how much they were missing until they got here,” shares Berndt. “Now they’re more active, connected and joyful. That’s the magic of a community built for living well.”

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by KIRSETIN K. MORELLO

Redefining Wealth: The Power of Enough

For years, the pursuit of wealth centered on accumulation: more assets, higher returns, faster growth. But today, many are rethinking that approach.

instead of accumulating money for its own sake, many Gen X and Boomers are focusing on growing—and spending—their wealth with intention to create security and pursue what matters most.

If that mindset resonates but you’re not quite sure what “enough” looks like, you’re not alone. The first step is understanding both what you have and what you want your money to do for you. “It’s not just about growing the biggest account possible,” says Autumn Soltysiak, CFP®, of hemming& Wealth Management. “It’s about using wealth as a resource—to travel, spend time with grandkids and focus on what brings you joy, rather than what causes stress.”

CLARITY FIRST

That mindset shift requires both clarity and planning. “It starts with a written financial plan, created and reviewed regularly with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®,” says Holly Gallagher, CFP®, founder of Horizon Financial. Her firm uses software that blends clients’ goals and values with the hard numbers.

They factor in things like Social Security benefits, life insurance and investment accounts to build a comprehensive financial plan. “It’s like how using GPS helps you get to your destination,” she says.

Understanding that full picture includes more than just assets and income. “It’s very important to understand a client’s

value system when we think about creating a plan,” says Meghan Vanderlugt, CPWA®, founder of Valor Wealth Group. “It’s not just about numbers, but about what their priorities are in this phase of life—it could be travel, charitable giving, leaving money to kids or any number of things.”

That’s why Autumn Soltysiak of hemming& Wealth Management encourages clients to begin with an honest inventory of their spending needs and resources. “We talk about a spending plan, not a budget, because we believe it’s about awareness, not restriction,” she says.

Many people, she explains, aren’t fully aware of where their money goes and often find they’re spending on things that don’t really serve them. “Enough isn’t just a number,” she adds.

“It’s the confidence that comes from knowing you can live the life you want with the resources you have.”

MOVING TOWARD FINANCIAL PEACE

For some, “enough” means the freedom to travel or start a second-act business. For others, it’s the ability to retire early or support a cause they care about. As you work to define what “enough” looks like for you, Soltysiak suggests asking yourself three key questions:

• What does a joyful, fulfilling life look like to me?

• What would I do differently if money weren’t a factor?

• What keeps me up at night?

“We always start by prioritizing what truly matters to our clients,” she says. For some, that means downsizing or simplifying; for others, it’s consolidating accounts, updating an estate plan or reassessing investment risk.

“Often, we’re talking about the things that wake clients in the middle of the night,” Soltysiak adds. “They worry about what will happen to their kids after they’re gone, or whether

“

Taking time to think through your options, and

pension or changes to Social Security, Gallagher says modeling possible outcomes in plain language often reduces anxiety. Vanderlugt agrees that scenario planning helps clients gain clarity and confidence. “Modeling different outcomes, like varying market returns, long-term care needs or giving strategies, helps them understand what’s possible,” she says. “It’s also important to discern how much risk is necessary to sustain their priorities, and to update the plan regularly as life evolves.”

Still, even the best-laid plan doesn’t always quiet fears rooted in deeper emotional concerns. “If fear persists,” Gallagher says, “we work with clients to explore the psychology of money, because sometimes it’s not about the numbers at all.” Once your values and priorities are clear, sharing them with the people who matter most can strengthen both your plan and your peace of mind.

COMMUNICATION

ACROSS GENERATIONS

giving yourself permission

to

consider a different path, can be incredibly empowering.”

they’re taking on too much market risk.” She emphasizes the importance of facing those concerns head-on. “The things you put off the most are often the things that bring the most peace once they’re resolved.”

For clients feeling anxious about whether they’ll have enough, Gallagher’s firm runs personalized “what-if” scenarios. “We walk beside them and play out those fears,” she explains. Whether it’s a market downturn, the loss of a spouse’s

Gallagher emphasizes the importance of an authentic, trusting relationship between you and your financial advisor and, for couples, involving both partners in the process. She also encourages families to prioritize open conversations about wealth across generations, especially with the largest wealth transfer in history now underway.

Cerulli Associates estimates that $124 trillion will be passed to heirs and charities by 2048. Without thoughtful planning, though, much of that wealth may not last. Research from The Williams Group found that 70 percent of family wealth is lost by the second generation, and 90 percent by the third. It’s a staggering statistic and one most families would like to avoid.

Experts say this kind of drop-off often happens when there hasn’t been enough open communication within the family, or when heirs simply aren’t prepared to take on financial responsibility. Including your financial advisor in family discussions, and clearly articulating your goals and intentions, can go a long way toward preserving wealth over time.

“We encourage families to involve children and grandchildren in these conversations,” Gallagher says, “so the next generation understands the purpose behind the wealth.” One family she works with agrees on shared values, then lets each child help choose which charities receive donations each year.

Traverse City

Heather Boivin

CFP®, AAMS® Financial Advisor

3285 S Airport Road West Traverse City, MI 49684

231-933-5263

heather.boivin@edwardjones.com

Justin Liptak

Financial Advisor

513 Union Street Traverse City, MI 49684

231-933-0881

justin.liptak@edwardjones.com

Andrew Weaver

Financial Advisor

125 Park Street, Ste 250 Traverse City, MI 49684

231-947-3032

andrew.weaver2@edwardjones.com

Yancy Boivin, AAMS® Financial Advisor

3285 S Airport Road West Traverse City, MI 49684

231-933-5263

yancy.boivin@edwardjones.com

Jim Mellinger Financial Advisor

12935 S W Bay Shore Dr, Ste 355 Traverse City, MI 49686

231-947-1123

jim.mellinger@edwardjones.com

Joel Leipprandt Financial Advisor

806 S Garfield Avenue, Suite B Traverse City, MI 49686 231-932-1290

joel.leipprandt@edwardjones.com

John Elwell, AAMS® Financial Advisor

3588 Veterans Drive Traverse City, MI 49684

231-947-0079

john.elwell@edwardjones.com

Jon Lamb Financial Advisor

12935 S W Bay Shore Dr, Ste 355 Traverse City, MI 49686 231-947-1123

jon.lamb@edwardjones.com

Alysia Boynton-Fisher Financial Advisor

12935 S W Bay Shore Dr, Ste 355 Traverse City, MI 49686

231-947-1123

alysia.boynton-fisher@edwardjones.com

Jamie Keillor, AAMS® Financial Advisor

4110 Copper Ridge Drive, Ste 202 Traverse City, MI 49684

231-252-3561

jamie.keillor@edwardjones.com

Interlochen

Bill Collin, ABFP® Financial Advisor

9672 US Highway 31, Ste 400 Interlochen, MI 49643

231-276-1355

bill.collin@edwardjones.com

Once those conversations are underway, the next step is helping families make thoughtful decisions about how and when wealth will be transferred. “Northwest Michigan families tend to be generous, with both the causes they care about and their children,” says Vanderlugt. “We work with clients to help ensure their kids understand the family’s values and priorities, and to guide them in making thoughtful decisions ahead of time about how and when their children will receive access to that wealth.”

These kinds of values-driven conversations help the next generation feel involved and respected, which often leads to better long-term outcomes. “It makes legacy planning meaningful, and even fun, instead of intimidating,” says Gallagher.

PEACE OVER PERFORMANCE

When you stop thinking about wealth solely in terms of outperforming the market and start thinking about how it can support your values and lifestyle, the shift can be liberating. That was the case for one of Soltysiak’s clients, who left

a high-stress job earlier than expected, even though he was considered young to retire. “We ran the numbers and looked at how much income the couple would need over the next few years,” she says.

The couple were interested in landscaping and realized they could leave the bigger paycheck behind and still meet their income needs by launching a small summer landscaping business. “It was a little unconventional,” Soltysiak says, “but they’re loving it. Taking time to think through your options, and giving yourself permission to consider a different path, can be incredibly empowering.”

As you reflect on what a fulfilling life looks like for you, it can be freeing to realize you have choices. When you understand what resources you need to support that life, you can let go of chasing more for its own sake and instead pursue financial peace. “True peace doesn’t come from your account balances alone,” Soltysiak adds. “It comes from clarity, confidence and living with intention.”

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