9 Rules for Living a Healthy and Long Life

It seems that everyone wishes to live healthily and long.

I don't wish to live a long life, but I started exercising because I want to be healthy when I get old.

It's not nonexistent; it's there.

I found an article titled "9 Rules for Living a Healthy and Long Life," and I thought it would be good to share, so I brought it with me.

Please read it once for fun.

 

1. Maximize movement

People living in areas with higher average life expectancy tend to be active throughout the day. Instead of dedicating separate time for exercise, they maximize movement in their daily routines. For example, in Amsterdam, where bicycles are deeply integrated into people's lives, they incorporate natural movements into their daily activities, such as walking in parks, using stairs instead of elevators, and stretching during work breaks.

 

 

2. Finding the purpose of life
Japan's concept of 'Ikigai' is a Japanese culture that identifies the purpose of life. Because there is a reason for life, we wake up in the morning and think about what to do that day. Knowing the purpose of life is said to give us a chance to live seven more years. It involves looking inward, discovering what you are passionate about, and understanding what makes your life meaningful. Through this process, you find the purpose of life.

 

3. Reducing Stress
I believe one of the things that everyone knows well but is difficult to practice is this: stress causes chronic inflammation and is the root of all diseases. It is said that it is important to incorporate rituals for relieving stress into daily life, just like the people in Blue Zones. The people of Ikaria in Greece take a nap in the afternoon, and the Okinawans spend part of their time remembering their ancestors. Similarly, we can also replace such practices by meeting friends for conversations or meditating.

 

 

4. The 80% Rule
Many doctors and nutritionists recommend following the 80% rule during meals. Instead of eating until completely full, it is advised to stop when about 80% full. This is also a proven method for a long life. The method is simple. Instead of watching media while eating, focus on the meal itself and chew slowly at least 20 to 30 times with each bite so that the satiety signals are transmitted to the brain.

 

5. Meals should be primarily plant-based.

According to recent research from the University of Bergen in Norway, practicing a plant-based diet rich in whole grains, beans, nuts, fruits, and vegetables can extend lifespan by at least 10 years. It is also an effective way to prevent various chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease.

 

Moderate drinking is okay

According to the book 'The Blue Zones,' in Sardinia, people who do not drink alcohol at all are found to live shorter lives than those who drink at least two glasses of red wine a day. This demonstrates that the warmth and sense of belonging that come from toasting with friends or family, rather than the wine itself, provide greater health benefits.

 

 

7. Social interaction is essential

People who regularly participate in religious activities or sports clubs and engage in community life can live from 4 to as much as 14 years longer than those who do not.

 

 

8. A life where family comes first

People in the Blue Zone are said to always stay close to their loved ones. Parents live with or near their children, allowing them to help each other. Those who live close to their families tend to be more faithful, and this is said to extend their lifespan by at least three years.

 

 

 

Friendship is also precious.
Sometimes, when living a busy daily life, meeting friends feels like a luxury. As a result, social interactions are mainly conducted online. However, for mental health, it is recommended to meet actively offline. Okinawa people form groups called 'Moai,' consisting of 5 to 8 lifelong friends, and they promise to support each other throughout their lives.

 

 

Source: W Korea