1. Follow a healthy diet
Diet is the most important factor for longevity, an expert who has been studying the secret of longevity for about 20 years told CNBC. The Mediterranean diet, or eating patterns similar to it, is the most effective and should be primarily plant-based and include legumes such as beans, nuts, whole grains, vegetables (especially leafy vegetables), and minimal red meat. The idea of intermittent fasting is also widespread. In the article, the expert recommends fasting for 12 hours a day, which means, for example, that you are allowed to eat between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
2. Exercise regularly
Some longevity experts recommend daily exercise, while others recommend daily low-intensity exercise. According to a study conducted in New England, strength training twice a week and cardio three times a week for at least 10 minutes significantly increases a person's chance of living to 90. In the blue zones, it is common that even though they are not active Particularly physically heavy, centenarians move daily, for example, traveling on foot or tending their own garden.
3. Let's believe in something
The expert interviewed by CNBC interviewed a total of 263 centenarians and came to the conclusion that those with a religion or life philosophy live longer and are happier than those without a religion or philosophy. The theory behind this is that following a religion or spiritual practice helps one find meaning in life.
4. Positive human relations
Maintaining and deepening positive relationships is the number one thing that can help us live longer, happier lives, according to a study conducted at Harvard University 86 years ago and counting. Developing social relationships is also one of the values of centenarians living in the Blue Zones. People who live here treat their partners and strengthening their relationships as a priority.
5. Goals and lifelong learning
In Okinawa, Japan, one of the blue zones with a large number of centenarians, ikigai, which loosely translates to “always busy happiness,” is so valuable that a book has been written about it that is popular around the world. The essence of ikigai is to find your purpose and stick to it, because according to surveys, purposeful people live longer. Plus, according to an 86-year-old Harvard study, lifelong learning can help us feel better even in old age.
Cover image source: Shutterstock
