Are you curious about longevity and what makes people in remote villages live to be 100? Triple digits … pretty amazing, right?! What is the secret of these long lived-people?
In the past 100 years, the lifespan of the average human being have increased by 50%. While society as a whole is expected to live longer than previous generations due to better health care, diet and exercise; research indicates a key component to lasting health and longevity.
In a review of more than 160 studies, published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, clear and compelling evidence indicate that happy people tend to live longer and experience better health than their unhappy peers. So, what makes us happy? For Pharrell Williams it’s “feeling like a room without a roof”. That cosy feeling inside may do wonders for your health. Happy people live longer because their heart rate is lower and they have lower levels of the stress hormone, cortisol. Researchers found that emotional vitality (enthusiasm and engagement) as well as optimism and having a support network of family and friends; help people to avoid or successfully manage illnesses such as diabetes, heart attacks, strokes and depression.
Did you know that happiness could add seven and a half years to a person’s life? But who really wants to live longer if you can’t have fun doing it? Looking forward to a long and happy life doesn’t have to mean treadmills and salads every day.
Take these steps to find the fountain of youth in your own backyard:
Smile and laugh often
Science has proven that smiling and laughing not only reduces stress and makes you feel good, this optimistic behaviour can actually keep you from falling ill and add years to your life!
Eat simply
The majority of centenarians in the world live by modest means. This translates directly to their diets, which are usually plant-based, consisting of a variety of legumes, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds. Modest living means modest eating. Eating less in general is simply good practise. Eat until you’re 80% full. Live by the old adage …” Eat like a king by day and a pauper by night”.
Get some good quality Zzz’s
Not getting enough sleep is another proven factor that reduces health and lifespan. The average adult need 8-9 hours of sleep each day.
Get a furry friend
Spending quality time with your four- legged companion can be a great way to de-stress and lengthen your lifespan.
Love and be loved
Scientific research has shown that people who have a healthy sex life look and feel younger, sleep better, have less stress, and live longer than those who don’t – According to these studies twice a week is the magic number.
Spend time with friends and family
The trust and love of family and friends has a powerful effect on your body and could add years to your life. This is due to the “feel- good” chemicals dopamine and oxytocin which our brains produce as a result of this.
Get active
Release those endorphins. Find something you enjoy; whether it’s taking the dog for a walk or tending to you vegetable garden. Low intensity physical activities are more beneficial (and fun) in the long run.
Find your purpose
Having a life purpose is at the top of the longevity list. Centenarians across the globe are happy people who have reason to get up in the morning.
Meditate
Yoga and meditation are great practises that can be done privately or in a group to relieve stress in our modern lifestyles.
Drink red wine
Red wine is packed with resveratrol, an antioxidant to protect your body against the effects of ageing. Not more than two glasses per day is recommended.
Eat dark chocolate
This is a good one! Eat a little of it every day, it may lower your blood pressure and cholesterol while providing an energy boost.
Believe
Studies have shown that faith allows you to find inner peace and happiness.
Bottom line: Happy people live longer. Listen to your body; take good care of it and in return it will take good care of you.
Source: www.psychologytoday.com, life.gaiam.com, www.healthline.com, longevity.about.com, howstuffworks.com, www.naturallivingideas.com, news.illinois.edu, www.realbuzz.com
DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.
