Wednesday

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

• How LA is turning stormwater into a resource

• The 24-hour pause rule

• Does strength start at your cells?

• Your favorite hangout spot can combat loneliness

• A proven anti-aging cream

True or False?

Meal planning for the week ahead can cut food waste in half.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

How LA Is Turning Stormwater Into a Resource

Los Angeles County’s Safe Clean Water Program is making steady progress in creating a greener, more sustainable city. With $95 million in funding this year, the program is supporting projects that capture stormwater and improve water quality. Thanks to Measure W, which helps fund natural solutions like rain gardens and green streets, these projects are helping reduce pollution and make LA’s water system more resilient.

The program has set an ambitious goal to capture 49 billion gallons of stormwater each year by 2035: more than double what LA currently collects. However, over 100 billion gallons of untreated stormwater still flow into the ocean each year, and there’s a lot more work ahead to meet that goal. Some parts of the city, like the Upper Los Angeles River, are receiving the most funding, but smaller communities are still waiting for their fair share.

Despite these challenges, LA’s Safe Clean Water Program is making meaningful progress. With over 700 projects underway, the city is working toward a more sustainable and equitable future. While there’s always more to do, especially in underserved areas, the hope is that the program will continue to grow and help create a cleaner, more resilient LA for everyone.

The 24-Hour Pause Rule

We’ve all been there: you see something, it catches your eye, and before you know it, you’ve added it to your cart. Whether it’s that trendy item or just something that “seems useful,” impulse buying can quickly add up. Often, we end up with things we don’t really need. In an eco-friendly world, this can feel even more significant, as overconsumption takes a toll on both our wallets and the planet.

One way to avoid this habit is by using the 24-hour pause rule. When you feel the urge to buy something, especially something that isn’t essential, take a full 24 hours to think about it. This gives you time to reconsider if it’s truly necessary or just an impulse. Often, after a day, the desire fades, and you realize you can live without it. This pause can also help reduce waste and support more mindful, intentional purchases.

It’s important to remember that it’s okay to buy things. We all need things now and then! The key is to be more thoughtful about what you’re bringing into your life. Consider whether the item is truly useful, whether it aligns with your values, and if it’s a sustainable choice. Slow down your shopping, and trust that being mindful doesn’t mean being perfect. It just means trying your best to make choices that feel right for you and the planet.

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.

Ready to feel stronger, for longer with Mitopure? The Canopy readers can take 30% off their first month with code NEWSLETTER30 for a limited time. While supplies last.

*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.

Your Favorite Hangout Spot Can Combat Loneliness

It's something many of us can relate to: returning to the same coffee shop, pizza place, or cozy bar over and over again. While it might feel like a routine or even a little boring, it turns out that these repeated visits are actually good for your mental and social health. Studies show that having casual interactions with familiar faces, like your favorite barista or server, can help improve your mood and make you feel more connected to your community.

These “weak ties,” the casual acquaintances we see regularly, play a surprisingly important role in our well-being. These interactions may seem small (talking about the weather or the latest local news), but they help create a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation, especially in a world where loneliness is becoming more common.

So, next time you feel like you’re just going through the motions, remember that these little rituals are actually beneficial. You’re not just grabbing a coffee or pizza. You’re connecting with others, building community, and boosting your happiness in ways you might not even realize. It’s all about finding joy in the familiar and leaning into those moments of connection, no matter how small.

Thank you to Particle for Men for sponsoring The Canopy.

Final Thoughts:

From fun hobbies to clever reuses, here are today’s cozy picks:

• 🔮 Find your hobby based on your zodiac sign

• 🖤 Books to read if you loved Fourth Wing

• 🧦 How to reuse your old socks

Reflections:

🌎 True or False: True. Most household food waste comes from forgotten or unused items.

🌅 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!