Longevity Secrets: What We Can Learn from the Oldest People in the World
Some things only become more valuable and meaningful as the years go by. This is true in many areas of life: both for rare coins and their value, such as the 1959 no mint mark penny value, and for people who are well over a hundred years old. Their experiences, habits and philosophy of life are something worthy of study. There are several so-called blue zones in the world - regions where the largest number of long-livers live. Among them are the Japanese island of Okinawa, Italian Sardinia, Greek Ikaria, Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula and California's Loma Linda. People here do not just live to be 90-100 years old - they stay active, healthy and clear of mind.
So, what is their secret? Perhaps it is genes. But scientists have long ago found out that lifestyle and habits play a much bigger role. So let us take a look at the main principles followed by long-livers from different countries and find out what lessons we can learn for ourselves.
Nutrition: Food as Medicine
One of the most important aspects of longevity is proper nutrition that keeps you healthy for years to come. In countries with high longevity, there are several general nutritional principles that allow long-livers to live to 100 years of age in great shape.
Japan - Okinawa: The Ikigai Principle
The people of the Okinawa Islands, in particular, are considered to have one of the highest levels of longevity. One of the secrets to their longevity lies in the right balance of food and energy. They follow the principle of “Ikigai” - living with a goal that is directly related to their lifestyle and eating in moderation.
The specialty of the local diet is the predominance of vegetables, fish, seafood and soy products. The main ingredients are sweet potatoes, fish, tofu, green vegetables and seaweed. The energy value of the dishes is quite low, but there are more than enough antioxidants and vitamins in the food.
Tip: To try the Japanese diet, start including more vegetables, fish and green algae in your diet.
Mediterranean Diet - Greece, Italy: Love of Nature and Simplicity
In Mediterranean countries, you can also find long-lived people who keep themselves physically active and healthy through proper nutrition. The Mediterranean diet includes mainly olive oil, fish, vegetables, whole grain products and dairy products. The main source of fats is olive oil and it helps lower cholesterol and improve cardiovascular health. At the same time, wine in moderate quantities (for example red ones) is also considered beneficial, especially for older people, as it helps to strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation.
Tip: Do not forget the benefits of olive oil, using it not only in salads but also for frying.
Movement: Activity without Fanaticism
Physical activity is one of the main factors for longevity. However, long-livers prove that you don't have to exhaust yourself in the gym every day to stay healthy. Their secret is moderate but regular exercise that fits harmoniously into their daily lives.
Sardinia, Italy: Daily Walks and Rural Labor
In the mountainous regions of Sardinia, locals who have passed the 90-year mark lead an active lifestyle, and without special training. Their physical activity is built on daily habits:
Walking. Every day they walk long distances on foot - to the store, to the market, to church, to neighbors.
Working in the garden and in the vegetable garden. Even in old age, the Sardinians are engaged in farming, which gives them moderate stress on their muscles and joints.
Stairs instead of elevators. In mountain villages, it is difficult to find houses without stairs, and the terrain forces them to go up and down constantly.
These simple but regular movements help maintain joint mobility, a healthy heart and stamina.
Tip: Instead of forcing yourself to exercise, find ways to move more in your daily life. For example, walk more often, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or make it a habit to take a walk after dinner.
Japan: Tai Chi and Meditation
The Japanese are known for taking care of their bodies. Instead of intense cardio, they prefer gentle, relaxing exercises that not only strengthen muscles but also calm the mind.
One of the most popular activities among older Japanese is Tai Chi (Taijiquan), a Chinese practice of slow, measured movements. Due to this, they can improve flexibility and coordination, reduce stress and anxiety levels, lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, and maintain balance, which is especially important for preventing falls in older age.
In addition to tai chi, many long-livers in Japan practice zazen (sitting meditation) daily. Due to it people may reduce stress levels, improve concentration and strengthen the nervous system. Even some data show that people who practice meditation regularly have slower age-related brain changes and lower levels of stress hormones.
Tip: If you struggle to find time for a full-blown workout, try incorporating short practices into your day - stretching, yoga, or even a minute of mindful breathing.
Psychology of Longevity: Attitude Toward Life
The key to longevity lies more than just in proper diet and exercise, it lies in one's attitude toward life. Long-livers often have a special attitude towards each day, trying not to dwell on problems or worry about nothing. Their positive attitude and ability to enjoy life influence their longevity.
France - The Art of Enjoying Life
In France, especially among long-lived people, great importance is attached to the ability to enjoy every moment. Their motto is joie de vivre (joy of living). French retirees often spend time with family and friends, are stress-free and enjoy simple things like good food, wine and socializing.
Greece - The meaning of life is companionship and love
In Greek culture, supporting family and loved ones is an important part of life. Even in old age, long-lived people are actively involved in the lives of their children and grandchildren. This strengthens bonds and helps people feel needed.
Hobbies and Mental Activity: The Secret of a Sharp Mind and Strong Memory
Many long-lived people are actively engaged in hobbies that help them not only to have fun, but also to keep their brains sharp. So, what are these activities? They may include collecting, playing mind games and working with fine motor skills to train memory, improve concentration and keep the brain active.
Collecting as active memory exercise
Collecting is an activity that requires attention, memory and the ability to navigate historical context. And many longtime residents are passionate about collecting antique items, e.g., coins, stamps, and books. Today, numismatics is especially popular among seniors because it trains attention to detail and helps them strengthen memory.
Tip: And users can use the Coin ID Scanner app for their hobby to identify and study coins efficiently. Due to the app users may speed up the process, it also helps you learn more about the coins' value, provenance, and history. So, understanding the details and features of each item helps maintain cognitive function, develops analytical thinking and interest in research.
Mental Exercises: Chess and Puzzles
Many long-lived people in Europe enjoy playing chess and solving puzzles. These activities activate different areas of the brain and help maintain mental flexibility. In Japan, various logic games such as Sudoku and Japanese crosswords are also popular. So, start solving puzzles or playing chess today to train your memory and logic. This is good for developing the mind and preventing cognitive diseases.
Simple Formula for Longevity
The secret of longevity is not in miracle elixirs or fancy diets, but it is harmony in everything: in food, movement, communication, mental development and the ability to enjoy life. Longevity in different parts of the world proves that small but conscious daily steps create the path to great results. Perhaps this is your main lesson: to appreciate every moment, to take care of your body and mind, to find joy in simple things. And how many years fate will give you depends both on genes and on yourself.
