Wednesday

In today’s issue, we’ll take a look at:

• How congestion pricing reshaped New York City streets

• The science behind treating yourself

• New research on muscle strength

• Washington is helping animals cross highways safely

• An innovation designed for comfort

True or False?

You should leave ceiling fans off during the winter.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

How Congestion Pricing Reshaped New York City Streets

One year after congestion pricing launched in New York City, the impact is hard to miss. Nearly 24 million fewer vehicles entered lower Manhattan, traffic delays dropped 25%, and air pollution in the congestion zone fell by 22%. That translates into faster commutes, quieter streets, and noticeably cleaner air.

Drivers are saving real time. Morning trips through major crossings like the Holland Tunnel and Williamsburg Bridge are up to 36% faster, and some commuters shave as much as 21 minutes off a one-way trip. Buses are moving more reliably too, with certain routes running up to 25% faster and school bus on-time rates climbing sharply.

The benefits extend beyond traffic flow. Fewer cars have meant safer streets, with traffic injuries and pedestrian deaths down about 15%. Noise complaints from honking vehicles have dropped nearly in half. Meanwhile, subway and bus ridership is rising, supported by congestion pricing revenue already funding new trains, signal upgrades, and accessibility projects.

While legal challenges remain, public support has grown as results become visible. For many residents, congestion pricing has shifted from a controversial idea to a tangible quality-of-life upgrade.

The Science Behind Treating Yourself

From an iced coffee to a quiet walk or a favorite snack, “little treats” have become a common way people bring small moments of joy into busy days. Psychologists say these tiny indulgences work because they activate dopamine, the brain chemical linked to motivation and anticipation, making even simple pleasures feel rewarding.

Experts explain that the enjoyment often starts before the treat itself. Anticipating something pleasant gives the brain a quick boost, which can help break up stress or mental fatigue. In some cases, that dopamine response can also lead to longer-lasting feelings of calm and connection through serotonin and oxytocin, chemicals linked to emotional balance and well-being.

That said, little treats work best when they’re intentional. When treats become a way to avoid emotions, escape responsibilities, or feel “okay” only through constant rewards, they can lose their benefit. Signs like relying on treats to cope with anxiety or feeling off without them may signal the need for more support.

Used mindfully, small indulgences can be a healthy reminder to slow down and enjoy everyday life. Psychologists emphasize that these small treats don’t need to be earned. It’s part of staying emotionally resilient in a world that often prioritizes constant productivity.

Science Links Mitochondria & Muscle Strength

As our muscles age, they naturally lose mass, strength, and function – a result of certain muscle fibers shrinking – contributing to fatigue and weakness beginning as early as our 30s. Recent research highlights that the key player in this aging process is our mitochondria, tiny-but-mighty organelles that produce more than 90% of our body’s energy. Importantly, scientists have found a strong link between decreased mitochondrial health and muscle health decline with aging, emphasizing the importance of maintaining these cellular engines.

A new way to support and improve muscle health as we age, Mitopure® by Timeline is clinically shown to meaningfully boost our mitochondrial health to improve muscle strength, without any change in exercise required.

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*500mg Mitopure® have been shown to (1) induce gene expression related to mitochondria function and metabolism and (2) increase the strength of the hamstring leg muscle in measures of knee extension and flexion after 4 months in overweight 40-65 year olds.

Thank you to Timeline for sponsoring The Canopy.

Washington is Helping Animals Cross Highways Safely

Washington State is quietly changing how wildlife and people share the landscape through its expanding wildlife corridor network. These corridors use overpasses, underpasses, fencing, and restored habitat to help animals cross busy highways safely while reconnecting long-fragmented ecosystems.

The most well-known example is the I-90 Snoqualmie Pass East crossing, where elk, deer, cougars, and black bears now move across a plant-covered bridge instead of darting through traffic. Cameras have recorded thousands of successful crossings, and collision rates in areas with wildlife crossings can drop by as much as 90%.

That matters in a state that sees more than 7,000 wildlife-vehicle collisions every year, costing lives and more than $70 million in damages. Fewer crashes mean safer roads, lower insurance costs, and less stress for drivers.

The corridor also supports wildlife survival. Many species need large, connected territories to find food, mates, and cooler habitats as the climate changes. By linking these spaces, the corridor helps stabilize populations and protect biodiversity.

With new crossings planned across the state, Washington’s wildlife corridor shows how smart infrastructure can benefit both nature and people.

The Underwire Bra, Reinvented with a Flexible Wire for the Ultimate Comfort and Support

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Thank you to Knix for sponsoring The Canopy.

Quick Picks:

From eco inspiration to rainy-day creativity, here are today’s trending eco-finds:

• 📱 Sustainable TikTok creators to follow

• 💪 How the mitochondria is linked to muscle strength

• ♻️ Upcycle DIY projects to try indoors

Reflections:

🌎 True or False: False. In reverse mode, fans help push warm air down and improve circulation.

🌅 Sunset Of The Day: The sun can provide the most beautiful photography. That's why we're eager to see your favorite sunrise or sunset photos. Reply to this email with your best sun-based pictures for a chance to be featured!