We are all growing older every day, and it is a prospect that frightens many of us. We aren’t going to live forever, so it is understandable our mortality weighs heavily on our minds. One day we are going to die – sad but true. It makes sense then to try to find ways to stay alive for as long as possible. The secret to this? A good diet and a supportive family. At least according to this report, where the oldest living woman on earth, Nabi Tajima, died aged 117 in Japan, a country renowned for its long life expectancy.
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So, what about you? Short of moving to Japan, there are ways you can follow the example set by the story in my link. If the prospect of growing old, losing independence, and possibly moving into a nursing home in your senior age bothers you, it’s important to change up your lifestyle. Experts have stated the following factors can make a huge contribution to your longevity; something Nabi Tajima would wholeheartedly agree with if, of course, she was still here to read this article.
Secrets to living a longer life
– Regular physical activity, whether around the home or outdoors. This can include walking instead of taking the bus, taking part in sport/gym activities, or simply getting out into the garden or playing with your kids. Sitting on the sofa all day is not an option!
– Another part of caring for your health and wellbeing is finding ways to reduce stress. Along the lines of the famous saying ‘all work and no play,’ make time for yourself away from work, take part in activities you enjoy, and do things that will make you laugh and smile. In short, turn your frowns upside down to increase your lifespan.
– Eating a healthy diet isn’t big news, but it makes sense to say that a diet of junk food is not going to prolong your life chances. Studies have suggested a diet rich in plant-based products should be a priority, along with small amounts of fish, dairy, and meat-based foods.
– Drinking alcohol is bad for us, right? It depends on how much you drink. According to this article, a moderate amount of alcohol can stave off common diseases and can be better for you than not drinking at all. Of course, we are using the moderate! Don’t assume a partying and hard-drinking lifestyle is going to help you live to a grand old age!
– Social interaction is also key, be that spending time with your family, or having a friendship circle that engages in healthy habits. This is especially true in your older years when having people to interact with can lift your mood and give you focus for the day. Read more here.
– Having a reason to live! Be that for your family, a religious faith, and activities that spur you on for the good of yourself and others. If you have a reason for waking up every morning, experts say you stand a greater chance of living a long (and fruitful) life.
And so…
While experts have claimed the above is true, through research and statistics, the factors listed are also down to common sense. It stands to reason that a healthier lifestyle will benefit your life’s chances. While we won’t all live to the grand old age of 117, we stand a better chance of living a longer life if we care for ourselves on a daily basis.