The longest living person died in 1997 at the age of 122. Her name was Jeanne Calment, and her daughter also lived well into her 90s. We can all only hope that our genes are that good.
While living until you’re 122 is probably not in the cards for most of us, there are a few things you can do to live as long as possible. We’re not talking about the typical eat well, don’t smoke and look both ways before crossing the street.
The key to how to live longer are things that most people don’t think of in terms of living a long healthy life.
It’s More than Just Physical Activity
It’s no surprise that physical activity will keep your body strong and help fight against injury and disease.
On the other hand, it’s also very important to keep your mind in shape. What is the point of living until you’re 122 if your mind goes at 85?
Doing daily crosswords can help keep your memory sharp. Learning a new language will also help exercise the left side of your brain.
Be Social
Humans are extremely social by nature. Building and maintaining relationships with friends and family can go a long way to leading a long happy life.
A link has also been made between people who attend regular religious services and living a longer life.
These relationships can help you from falling into a depression and help your immune system. Having a good time with friends can be just as good or better than an antidepressant.
Don’t Skip the Floss
Clean teeth aren’t just to help your appearance, they can help you live longer.
According to the CDC people with gingivitis and periodontitis have a 23-46 percent higher mortality rate.
Ther are a lot of tip on how to help prevent this, including flossing every day, in this longevity book.
Avoid Oversleeping
Most sleep studies tell you to make sure you get enough sleep. It’s probably a new concept that getting too much sleep can be a detriment to your health.
Scripps Clinic Sleep Center in California found that people who sleep more than 8 hours or less than 6 and a half don’t live a longe as people who sleep between 6.5 and 7 hours.
Think about the last time you slept more than 8 hours, you most likely woke up feeling a little groggy or still tired. This is because that much sleep actually impairs cognitive functions.
Put in How to Live Longer in Practice
Most people want a long happy life, some people do that by going to the gym every day, others do it by petting more puppies.
Although most people tend to forget that the things we mentioned, being social, keeping your mind sharp, sleeping and flossing can all help your life expectancy.
Check out some of our blogs to see more on how to live longer, and what other life improvements you can make.