Event summary produced by The Globe and Mail Events team. The Globe’s editorial department was not involved.
Sleep, mental health, exercise and diet can all play an essential role in not only the length of our lives, but the quality of them. Taking preventative health care steps can be challenging for most Canadians as time and resources are predominantly allocated toward treating illness, as opposed to preventing it. Socioeconomic determinants like housing and income also play a pivotal role in population health, but are largely outside of an individual’s control. Alternatively, focusing on what we can control as individuals has proven health benefits. On April 28, 2025 The Globe and Mail hosted an event on building habits that lend to a longer, healthier life.
The day began with a panel discussion hosted by Globe and Mail generations reporter, Ann Hui, who was joined by Laura Rosella, professor at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at University of Toronto and Dr. Steve Pomedli, physician with Cleveland Clinic Canada, who both shared insights on the demographic trends shaping health in Canada.
Next, Martin Gibala, professor of kinesiology at McMaster University presented on how short, powerful bursts of exercise can trigger big health and fitness gains through minimal, time-efficient doses.
The day’s second panel discussion was hosted by Globe and Mail health editor, Caroline Alphonso. The conversation was focused on the importance of preserving mental health. Alphonso was joined by registered psychotherapists, Anita Owusu and Jean Tsai, as well as Mina Husain, psychiatrist and assistant professor of adult psychiatry and health systems at the University of Toronto.
Following the panel discussion, Leslie Beck, director of food and nutrition at Medcan, presented on the key components of high-quality dietary patterns for healthy aging.
David R. Samson, professor of evolutionary anthropology and bestselling author of Our Tribal Future, concluded the day with a closing keynote focused on practical strategies for improving sleep quality.
The Globe and Mail presented the event with sponsor support from Manulife.
Event summary produced by The Globe and Mail Events team. The Globe’s editorial department was not involved.