If you hope to live a long and healthy life, then it’s important that you practice the right habits. And while genetics can play a role in the longevity of your life, the way you live your life is perhaps even more important.
Research has shown us that lifestyle habits can significantly influence how long we live. In other words, if you hope to enjoy your retirement, then it’s important that you start paying attention to how you live your life now. If you are looking for ways to increase your chances of living a longer and healthier life, then here are some habits you might want to start taking up right away.
Table of Contents
Daily Exercise
Moving your body is the cornerstone of good health. Regular exercise offers all sorts of benefits beyond just strengthening your muscles and improving cardiovascular health. Exercise also offers mental health benefits.
When you get up and get moving, you release endorphins, and in turn, you experience a natural mood boost. The best part about exercise is that there are so many ways to do it. Whether it’s hiking in the mountains or taking a yoga class, moving your body can be more than just beneficial, it can be fun! Try to aim for at least two hours of moderate exercise a week, and your body and lifespan will thank you for it.
Eat Well
Hopefully, no one has to tell you that eating junk food every day isn’t going to do your health any favors. While it’s okay to occasionally indulge in your favorite unhealthy snacks, the majority of your nutrition should come from whole food sources. In other words, you should be eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and lean proteins. Limit the amount of sugar that you eat, and when in doubt, remember that balance is key. Elimination diets or eating too much of only the same thing isn’t an example of balance. A well-rounded diet is the best way to go.
Minimize Stress
Stress is one of your body’s worst enemies. Not really does stress make you feel unhappy and, well,—stressed, it also can start to affect your quality of life. People who experience high levels of stress on a daily basis may find that they have difficulty forming healthy relationships with others, they don’t sleep well, and they may even experience depression.
Try to limit the amount of stress that you’re exposed to by eliminating stressful situations from your life, and learning to cope if you’re pressed with a difficult scenario. Exercises like deep breathing techniques can do us a world of good when we’re trying to navigate life’s challenges. The less stress you have to live with, the more you increase your chances of living a longer life, and that’s a fact!
