It’s about the collective.

Our goal is to help people live not only longer lives but better lives.

Elements of the Project

Enhancing community and social connections.

Volunteering, participating in book clubs, and simply spending time with others fosters a sense of belonging and connectedness and thus increases our lifespan.

This project fosters intentional partnerships and collaboration across the Shorewood community: businesses, schools, organizations, and residents.

Daily Movement.

The walkability score in Shorewood is stellar 86. Walking is the number one form of movement associated with longevity. Let’s continue to not only promote movement on land but also on water. Surf, swim, sail in Lake Michigan.

Nutrition.

From the Shorewood Feast to the Farmer’s Market to offerings at local restaurants, Shorewood already prioritizes access to real, whole food. Restaurants can include a longevity item on the menu. There will be opportunities for nutrition education workshops and events.

Connection with Nature.

Spending time in nature has been shown to boost our mood, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. For example, Finland has topped the world Happiness index for 7 consecutive years, and one key element to their happiness is immersion in nature. Finns enjoy the simple pleasures- clean air, pure water, and walking in nature. In Shorewood, we have access to Lake Michigan and abundant green space with our 7 local parks. Let’s make nature a priority in our lives not only for our health and happiness but also for the health of the planet.

Share it.

Please reach out if you are a business owner and want to be involved; or if you live or work in Shorewood and would like to help; or if you have content (pictures, events, videos) that convey longevity. Follow us on social media (INSTAGRAM and FACEBOOK) or email us at shorewoodlongevityproject@gmail.com.

Meet the Founders.

  • I’m a naturopathic doctor who works and lives in Shorewood. I strongly believe resilience and wellness are rooted in the connections we make to the people around us. I am not just a healthcare practitioner but a passionate advocate for community empowerment.

    After traveling to Nicoya, Costa Rica and extensively studying the Blue Zones, I have been inspired to make Shorewood the next longevity neighborhood. My goal is to transport and cultivate the environmental characteristics that we see driving longevity and happiness in other regions to Shorewood.

    My husband, Chris, and I own a health and wellness clinic, Lakeside Natural Medicine, in Shorewood. Through my group medical visit offerings and nutrition workshops, I've witnessed firsthand how lifestyle changes flourish when nurtured within the embrace of a supportive community.

    I graduated from UW-Madison, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in dietetics and nutrition. I then earned my doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from National University of Natural Medicine, in Portland, OR.

    Join me on this wellness revolution right in the heart of Shorewood!

  • Academic Dean, DSHA

    I am an advocate for health, the environment, community connectivity, and lifelong learning. I have a passion for helping people and their communities thrive!

    After years of reading the annual United Nations’ World Happiness Report and seeing Shorewood reflected in nearly every pillar, I was inspired to bring this type of initiative to Shorewood and knew that Dr. Sarah Axtell would be the perfect partner. My ultimate goal is to help create and sustain the levers of well-being, happiness, and longevity across Shorewood so that everyone has access and support to create a life full of meaning, purpose, connection, and joy.

    My husband, Jackson, and I have lived in Shorewood for 25 years, have raised our kids here, and love living in our walkable community nestled on Lake Michigan, frequenting Shorewood restaurants, pubs, parks, and businesses with family and friends. Special shoutout to the Shorewood Library, my home away from home.

    My background is mashup of science and the humanities -- I have a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and an M.A. and Ph.D. in English. I am a curious, positive leader and educator who is willing to stop for any roadside plaque, historical marker, or wayside park. I believe in the power of learning, the experience of nature, and the interconnectedness of community to inspire, create wonder, and sustain longevity!