Longevity: How Many Active Ibiza Summers Do You Have Left?

How Many Summers Do You Have Left?

Have you ever wondered how many active summers you have left? Is it five, maybe ten? Or are you starting to slow down - feeling the aches, the creaks, sneaking off for a siesta while the kids cannonball into the pool yelling “Marco, Polo”.

This past summer, I surprised myself. I climbed onto an inflatable water-toy with the kids, bracing for what I thought would be a guaranteed backbreaker. Even more shocking, I dusted off my wakeboard and hit the water, goofing about with new tricks, and indulging in a face-plant or two for old times’ sake.... These are activities that, for the last five years, I would’ve barely glanced at without panicking that I’d slip a disc. I genuinely thought those days were done.

But there I was, flying off the 'sofa' (spoiler: that inflatable monstrosity has nothing in common with a sofa) as my body slammed back down, my stomach left floating up to the clouds and adrenaline surging, and I realised that this is why I take care of myself. It’s exactly why I invest so heavily in my strength and physicality: because it gives me the freedom to say "yes" to these moments.

And now that I’ve rediscovered that freedom, I’m holding onto it for as long as I can. These wild, youthful moments—squealing like a kid, feeling completely alive—are precious. That rush of being fully present is too sweet to let go. It hits home, moments like these are gifts and why taking care of yourself is worth every effort.

The Power of Routine and Structure

Many people think that living freely is about spontaneity—about saying “yes” to whatever life throws your way. And while that’s part of it, the real secret to freedom isn’t just doing whatever you want whenever you want. It’s about having the strength, energy, and mental clarity to embrace those moments when they come. And that’s where routine and structure come in.

I know it sounds counterintuitive, but routine is at the very core of living a free and active life. Having a structure—a plan for exercise, good nutrition, and rest—is what allows us to stay vibrant and energetic. It’s the consistent effort behind the scenes that gives you the freedom to jump into life without hesitation. 

Think about it: when you take care of your body regularly, you’re not just adding years to your life, you’re adding life to your years.  It’s like putting money in the bank—every workout, every healthy meal, every night of good sleep is an investment in your health span - the number of years you’ll be able to live actively and vibrantly. That’s the true goal, extending your health span, not just your lifespan. 

So, do you have a longevity plan, or are you just winging it and hoping for the best?

Embracing a Life of Adventure

This summer, I felt that spark again. I’m back on the water, trying new things, and cheering and whooping with my girls. The freedom I feel now is something I almost forgot existed. It’s not just about feeling strong or capable, it’s also about feeling connected to the world around me. Whether it’s the wind in my face as I carve across the gentle morning waves, or the simple joy of perusing a medieval village market and being left to carry all the shopping bags, these experiences remind me why I keep pushing myself to stay strong.

And now I’m asking you - are you still up for it? When was the last time you tried something you thought was beyond you? Do you have the zest to take the family camping, go rock climbing and cliff jumping, dance under the stars at summer festivals, or the pep to finally learn to kitesurf? 

Longevity isn’t about living forever. It’s about living an active, energetic, and rich life for as long as you can. It’s about staying engaged with the things and people that make life worth living, a life with fire in the belly. And if structure and routine are the price of that freedom? Then it’s a price I’m happy to pay.

At the end of the day, it’s not about how many summers you have left, but about making the most of every single one.

Zoë Jordan is a high-performance and wellness coach. Following 15 years as an award-winning fashion designer, Zoë's career pivoted at 40 to encompass a life dedicated to wellness, fitness and optimum health. She lives in Palma with her three daughters and represents Ireland at international padél.