Do These 9 Things to Live Longer

One of the secrets to long life is to keep moving,
as this man in Nicoya, Costa Rica does.

Everyone would like to add years to their life. And everyone has suggestions on how to do it. Since I study genies for my books, I’m especially intrigued by the concept of longevity. The life span of a jinni is estimated to be in the millenia. We’re lucky to get a century. So if you had a genie friend, there are some things you can do, according to this study, to extend your days. I came across an article in the Day in Health column that explored a study by Dan Buettner, author of The Blue Zones: 9 Power Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived the Longest. Buettner analyzed the factors that contributed to the long lives of people in the  communities of Nicoya, Costa Rica, Sardinia, Italy, and Loma Linda, California. These stalwarts live an average of 11 years longer than the typical American. Nine things that might give you an extra 11 years. Sounds like a fair trade to me.

From the article:

9 Secrets of Longevity

As Buettner and his team studied the Blue Zones, they identified nine common traits shared by those communities where people live longer. He was surprised that it wasn’t only food and lifestyle, but also creating a most beneficial environment. Here’s a look at these longevity-boosting traits, known as the “Power of 9.:

Sardinia, Italy was another site studied for its inhabitants’ long lives.
I think I could live longer here…

Move naturally.  “Do your own house and yard work, go up and down your stairs with your laundry, knead your own dough,” Buettner advises. “Incorporate more movement every hour.”
Know your purpose. “Take time to recognize your values, strengths, talents, passions and gifts,” Buettner says. Reflect, and work on yourself.
Down shift. Relieve chronic stress by finding time each day to nap, meditate or pray.
The 80% rule. Cut 20 percent of your daily calories with proven healthy practices: eat a big breakfast, dine with your family, and begin each meal by expressing appreciation.
Plant slant. Eat mostly plant-based foods, and small portions of meat no more than twice a week.
Wine at 5. Drinkers live longer than non-drinkers. This longevity tip had one exception: those in the Loma Linda Blue Zone were Seventh Day Adventists, who abstain from alcohol.
Family first. Living in a loving, thriving family can add up to six years to your life. Work on a positive, committed relationship and stay close to your aging parents and grandparents.
Belong. “Those with the most social connectedness tend to live longer,” Buettner says. Be part of a group of healthy-minded, supportive people.
Right tribe. Good friends have a positive effect on your longevity. Support them and adopt healthy behaviors together.

Best Wishes for a Long Life,

Kellyann 

Zubis lives thousands of years. Check out The Genie Ignites.