SleepSlide 1 of 11
A recent study of centenarians, or those aged 100 years or more, found that they got 8 or more hours of sleep a night. Sleep is very important to help our bodies restore the damage done to us during the day. Try to get as much as possible, even if your life is hectic! It'll make a world of difference.
Get a PetSlide 2 of 11
Having a pet helps reduce your stress level, which reduces the level of coritsol that your body produces. Having a pet also gives you an excuse to get up and get moving, which helps your body stay fit as you get older!
Don't Worry, Be HappySlide 3 of 11
People who keep an optimistic attitude are less stressed overall and better equipped to deal with adversity. They also have lower blood pressure than people who are pessimists!
A study found that optimistic people had a 50% lower risk of early death than pessimistic people. If that's not a reason to look on the bright side, I don't know what is!
SexSlide 4 of 11
People who have sex more often are happier, less stressed, and get better rest, all of which lead to a longer life. Also, studies have shown that for men, frequent ejaculation leads to lower prostate cancer risk.
Stop SmokingSlide 5 of 11
Of course, it is better if you never start smoking to start with, but if you are a smoker, it isn't too late to stop! If you quit smoking, your body can still do miraculous things to repair itself and increase your life expectancy. So quit as soon as possible and give yourself the best chance!
AntioxidantsSlide 6 of 11
Excess free radicals in the body lead to cellular damage and aging of our cells. This can lead to diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's disease. But antioxidants have the ability to get rid of free radicals!
Some good sources of antioxidants are:
- Beans
- Blueberries
- Other berries
You can also take certain supplements to help you get the antioxidants you need.
ExerciseSlide 7 of 11
Exercise is helpful for extending life in many ways. There are almost too many to list, but I'll give it a shot! Exercise:
- Strengthens bones
- Helps maintain weight
- Improves cardiovascular health
- Releases endorphins, which are good for a happier mood, lowering stress levels, and keeping diseases away
So get out there and move around in whatever way makes you the happiest!
Lose WeightSlide 8 of 11
Extra weight can put you at risk for many life shortening diseases, such as heart disease and type two diabetes. To lose weight, combine a healthy diet and exercise! Then continue eating healthy and exercising to maintain that healthy weight.
LaughSlide 9 of 11
Laughing releases stress relieving endorphins and lowers the bad guys, adrenalin and cortisol. It can also cause the body to produce more of its natural defensive cells, antibodies.
So pop in a funny movie and laugh the night away. You just might be extending your life in addition to having fun!
Stimulate Your BrainSlide 10 of 11
Keeping your brain learning and active helps it to build itself as you age, instead of deteriorating. To keep your brain active, try:
- Learning a new skill
- Reading a book
- Watching a documentary
- Practicing a new hobby
Whatever you decide to do, it'll help keep your brain sharp and healthy as you age!