How to Enjoy a Longer Life: Learn from the Centenarians

Although everyone wants to live long, happy lives, the number that reaches their 100 birthday is relatively small when compared to the earth’s population. There seems to be concentrations of individuals that live into their 90s and past their 100 birthday. Since these concentrations are normally located in different parts of the world such as Costa Rica, Italy, California and Japan, researchers wonder what the common thread is. Here are a few ways to learn from the centarians and enjoy a longer life.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Include physical exercise--this is one of the most noteworthy traits that all centenarians have in common. They all have active lives. Whether it’s working in the garden or harvesting crops, exercise is part of their daily routine. Exercise helps to keep their muscles strong, and as a result, they enjoy a longer life.

2. Develop a purpose in life--When researchers have studied the way centenarians live, they notice that all centenarians have a reason to get up in the morning.

3. Create a network of support--Centenarians have a sense of belonging. They feel useful and needed by their families and friends. They contribute to nourishing family ties. This also creates in them a sense of fulfillment and leads to them enjoying a longer life.

4. Have a healthy diet--As researchers study the centenarians’ eating habits, they learn that regardless of where centenarians live, they eat fresh fruits and vegetables raised locally. They include plenty of legumes, beans, and rice. They consider meat a side dish instead of the main dish.

5. Incorporate omega-3 foods--Centenarians normally eat foods such as cheese, sardines and whole grains. Make sure to eat broccoli, eggs and kale for an adequate supply of calcium and magnesium.

6. Get plenty of sunlight--Although this is a controversial subject, centenarians normally work outside and receive plenty of sun light. They benefit from an adequate supply of vitamin D, which contributes to maintaining strong bones.

7. Drink red wine--Everyone has heard about the benefits of red wine. However, when centenarians drink red wine, they drink it in the company of friends--as part of a social routine, which promotes emotional health. They drink red wine in moderation and on a regular basis.

Tips & Warnings

• Studies indicate that laughing has a positive effect on the body--psychologically and physically. It relieves stress and hormones that help to manage pain. Centenarians believe that being positive helps them to enjoy happier and longer lives.

Resources

• A Look at Centenarians
• Centenarians

[Toanjalo]

on 12/28/2008 Great article! Thanks for all the information.