Simple habits for a sustainable life

In recent years, interest in how to live a long, healthy life has grown significantly. From researchers to everyday people, the quest for longevity is everywhere.

While there's an overwhelming amount of information, you can still adopt simple lifestyle changes to increase your chances of living longer. Five essential habits promote longevity.

Eat a nutritious diet

Diet is one of the most critical factors in living a long life. Many experts recommend a plant-based eating pattern, similar to the Mediterranean diet, for longevity. This diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes.

Daily fasting for around 12 hours is often suggested to support longevity further. For example, people might eat between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. By limiting the eating window, the body has time to rest and repair, possibly contributing to a longer life.

Keep moving every day

Staying physically active is another critical habit for a long life. Regular movement, especially low-intensity activities, plays a significant role in longevity. Strength training twice a week, along with aerobic exercise several times a week, boosts the chances of living into old age.

Daily movement comes naturally in areas known for long-living populations, such as the so-called blue zones. People walk, garden, and do manual tasks, keeping them active without rigorous workouts.

Embrace belief and community

A strong sense of belief and connection to a faith-based community can also contribute to a longer life. Studies show that people who attend religious gatherings live longer than those who don't.

Whether through religion or a personal philosophy, having a purpose and a source of meaning leads to greater happiness and longevity.

Believing in something greater than oneself extends life and gives a sense of fulfilment. It helps individuals face challenges with resilience and optimism, essential for long-term well-being.

Nurture relationships

Positive relationships are crucial for both happiness and longevity. Researchers from an 86-year Harvard study found that strong social connections are the most significant factor in living a long, happy life.

Investing time and effort into these connections is equally important. Fostering "social fitness" by deepening relationships can have lasting benefits. Making time for meaningful conversations and prioritizing loved ones helps build a support network that can improve mental and physical health.

Live with purpose and keep Learning

Finding a sense of purpose in life is essential for longevity. In places like Okinawa, Japan, where many centenarians live, the concept of"Ikigai" emphasizes the importance of having a reason to get up every morning. Committing to a purpose can add years to life.

In addition to living purposefully, lifelong Learning is linked to better ageing. Research shows that those who maintain a growth mindset and continue to learn new things age more successfully.

Whether through education or personal growth, this commitment to self-improvement helps people remain engaged and healthy as they age.