'Biologically younger' people who defy their real age often have 5 things in common
Don’t just read these words. Implement them.
Movement - integrate physical activity naturally into daily life. “Don’t (only/necessarily) exercise,” Instead engage in movement through daily activities like gardening, walking, interacting with your children.
Healthy diets promote longevity - In regions like Loma Linda, California and Okinawa, Japan and Costa Rica, people consistently live longer, healthier lives. Central to their lifestyle is a largely plant-based diet rich in beans, fruits, water, coconuts, mangos, grapes and cruciferous vegetables. Buettner explores these dietary habits in his book, The Blue Zones Secrets for Living Longer.
Self-Assign Purpose - having a reason to live and a life plan that gives individuals motivation to rise each morning. Studies suggest that having a purpose is associated with fewer strokes and heart attacks, as well as improved physical function among older adults. Want to brainstorm about goals for free?
Form/Maintain Strong Personal (aka IRL) Social Networks - They don’t have to be large groups of people, but note that in Blue Zones, strong social ties play a pivotal role in health and happiness. In Okinawa, Japan, people form “moai” groups to support each other throughout life. Supportive relationships help individuals share life's ups and downs.
Create environments that support healthy living - “We’re genetically hardwired to crave sugar, crave fat, crave salt, take rest whenever we can,” Buettner said. By restructuring environments to favor healthier choices, these projects encourage walking groups, better dietary habits, and smoking cessation. As a result, participants become “biologically younger,” with fewer health issues as they age.
