Longevity

This past week we all heard of the passing of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and husband of 74 years to Queen Elizabeth.  Prince Philip would have turned 100 years old in June, and the Queen will be 95 this month.  They seemed to have lived a long, happy, and active life together as she referred to him as her “strength and stay” at their 50th wedding anniversary.

I would venture to say that we all want to live a long beautiful life, which is not as difficult as you think it would be.  Research has shown the life expectancy has risen dramatically over the past several years due to many factors.  I have spent some time studying centenarians and what people do to live to 100 and beyond, and there are a few things that continue to pop up as common threads.  

Many think that our parents determine our lifespan.  While genetics can play a role, surprisingly, this is a small percentage between 20 to 30 percent.  The other portions come from improving the quality of your life.  It is not all about living longer, but more about living better.  We want to avoid growing old and being unhealthy.  We can do this by paying attention to the things you do today. 

Below are a few suggestions to help you live a longer, healthier, happier, beautifulife;

• Stay active - Research shows that even small amounts of movement a day will give you excellent benefits over living a life of little or no activity.  Walking, yoga, biking, working around the house or outside can keep you fit in your mind and body. 
• Be positive - Keeping a positive mindset plays a crucial role in longevity.  Research shows that negative, pessimistic, and non-trusting individuals don’t live as long as people looking on the bright side of things.
• Eat less - Scientists have found that eating less can slow down the aging process at a cellular level and protect the cells from harmful deterioration. Try skipping a meal a day or partaking in smaller meal portions.
• Volunteer - Studies have shown that lending a helping hand can lead to a longer, more fulfilled life.  Volunteerism is linked to lower rates of depression and overall greater well-being. 
• Take naps - Every once in a while, a little rest can make a big difference.  Research has shown that as few as three thirty-minute naps per week can lower your risk of heart-related death by over 30 percent.  
• Drink coffee - Studies show that coffee is one of the most significant sources of antioxidants in the western diet.  Coffee drinkers tend to have a reduced risk of diseases like Alzheimer's, Diabetes, and Depression.
• Daily affirmations - Remind yourself how important you are, how healthy you are, and how special you are.  Then, you will continue to stay happy, fulfilled, and realize your life’s purpose.  
• Go to church - Many surveys have shown that people of all ages who attend worship services of any kind feel supported, grounded, fulfilled, connected, and inspired.  All of these things bring a stronger sense of faith and stability throughout your lifespan.   
• Be social - If you continue to surround yourself with positive and inspiring friends and family, you can increase your lifespan dramatically.  Surrounding yourself with people that continue to make you happy and that you can also inspire makes a big difference.  
• Enjoy life - This was the single most common thread with people who lived to be 100 or beyond.  These individuals lived every day like it was their best.  They felt good about their health, well-being, and support systems in place and made a conscious effort to enjoy living!  

My affirmation for you this week is;

“I am learning new and better ways to live and embrace my long, happy, healthy, and beautifulife!”