Most people don’t put a lot of thought into how long they might live. It’s not like we exactly plan to become centenarians. However, more and more folks are reaching that milestone these days.
More, now than ever, your chances of living to the ripe old age of 100 have improved significantly. However, your lifespan isn’t just tied to your good luck and genetics, it’s also affected by your habits. And it seems one of the keys to living longer may simply be to live your best life.
Here are some habits that may help increase your odds of living longer than you might expect. Plus, as a bonus, they’ll likely improve your health and fulfillment with life in general.
Gertrude Weaver, who lived to be 116, credited her longevity to kindness.
“Treat people right and be nice to other people the way you want them to be nice to you,” she told Time magazine. Granted, she also didn’t drink or smoke and she made sure to get plenty of sleep, too.
There’ve been countless studies that tout the benefits of coffee, tea, or both. And those who do drink these beverages apparently tend to live longer than those who don’t. In fact, they may have a lower risk of Parkinson’s disease, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even certain cancers.
These days, it’s not uncommon to joke about our faith in humanity. It’s clear there are a lot of problems in the world. However, for those who see the world through rose-colored glasses, longevity may be a significant benefit.
Studies have shown that individuals who believe they have a high quality of life are less likely to die prematurely. So, perhaps a healthy dose of optimism may, like laughter, be one of the best medicines.
If you enjoy sushi, you’re in luck. High life expectancy in Japan been linked to common dietary habits – which includes eating a lot of fish and rice.
That evidence aside, there’ve been innumerable studies showing the benefits of eating fish. The American Heart Association even suggests eating it at least twice a week.
Prior to her passing in 2017, Emma Morano was once the world’s oldest person. Her pro tip? She ended her abusive marriage. “I didn’t want to be dominated by anyone,” she explained to The New York Times.
We know exercise is good for us and for extended our life expectancy. However, that doesn’t mean you have to spend your life at the gym – or even go at all.
Regular activity is important to a healthy life though. And while it’s recommended that we get around 150 minutes of exercise a week, it’s okay to start slow. Even going out for walks regularly can help increase your longevity.
Having an active social life might actually have a bigger impact on our lifespan than you think. One study even suggests it’s the key to living a whopping 50% longer.
That’s not the only study that’s suggested that having close friends has such a significant impact either. In fact, some believe it’s as influential on our lifespan as not smoking or maintaining a healthy weight.
So go on, what are you waiting for?
