13 Scientifically-Backed Secrets to Live a Long and Happy Life

Don’t we all wish there was a magic wand we could wave that would guarantee us a long and happy life? I know I’d sure love a wand like that.

So while there is no magic tool to ensure we grow old healthy and happy, there are certain things you can do today that will get you on the right track. Today, I want to share 13 secrets to living a long life.

13 secrets to living a long and happy life

Many people spend thousands of dollars to maintain the fountain of youth, or to slow down aging, but you don’t have to do that! You can grow old gracefully, healthy and strong by simply following the 13 tiny tips I’m going to share with you now.

It’s never too late to start taking care of your health. I say that over and over again because it’s true. I quit smoking and quit eating sugar at 62 years old and feel like a million dollars. You can learn more about my journey over on my YouTube channel here.

Let’s get to the 13 tips to help you live a long and happy life. If you have any tips you’d like to share, drop them in the comments section below!

Physical Activity

Get moving!!

Regular physical activity is essential to maintaining good health and longevity. It isn’t just about building muscle or losing weight; it plays a very important role in boosting mood, combating disease, and increasing lifespan.

It can be as simple as taking a brisk walk in the park, practicing yoga, or dancing in your living room. Find a workout routine you’ll love doing and stick to it. No expensive gym or fancy equipment required!

Balanced Diet

Eating a balanced diet is the real key to good health. A diet rich in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains provides the body with essential nutrients.

Cut out added sugar and processed foods. These foods cause inflammation, disease, and accelerate aging, not to mention they will add weight.

A well-balanced diet provides all of the energy you need to keep active throughout the day, the nutrients you need for growth and repair, helping you to stay strong and healthy, and helping to prevent diet-related illnesses.

Stress Management

Life is full of stressors, but how we handle them will impact our health. Chronic stress can lead to serious health problems like heart disease and depression.

Using stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness can help maintain a positive outlook and significantly reduce stress. Learn to let things go and not worry so much.

Besides, at this stage of our lives, we should be enjoying life, not stressing about it.

Quality Sleep

They don’t call it ‘beauty sleep’ for nothing! Quality sleep is so important for our overall health and well-being. Lack of sleep can lead to obesity, heart disease, stress, agitation and depression. And all those will age you quickly and rob you of a long and happy life.

You should aim for 7-9 hours a night. If you have trouble getting a good night’s sleep, talk to your doctor about it. If you’d rather not (no judging, I totally get it), try some of these tips:

turn off all electronics 1 hour before sleep
stop eating or drinking 3 hours before bed
listen to soft guided meditations at night to help you sleep
use natural sleep aids (Melatonin) to help you fall asleep

Regular Check-ups

I can’t stress this enough. Get regular check-ups!

When we were younger, it was easy to brush off random aches and pains, but as we age, these pains are our signals that something is wrong. Get them checked.

It’s important to listen to your body. If something feels off or wrong, it is. Make that appointment.

Regular dentist visits are also crucial. According to the Mayo Clinic:

Some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral germs can cause. Source: Mayoclinic.org

Positive Thinking

Having a positive outlook on life will help improve your mental health, which in turn helps maintain good physical health. Practice positive affirmations and visualizations, and surround yourself with positive people to foster an optimistic mindset.

If you are constantly worrying and have negative thoughts often, try this simple trick: Next time you have a negative thought, stop it immediately and replace it with 3 positive thoughts.

Studies have found that a positive attitude improves the overall outcome of your life, helping you to live a long and happy life.

Maintain Social Connections

Humans are social creatures, and maintaining strong social connections will lead to living a long and happy life. These connections can be with family, friends, or community groups.

Regular interaction, even if it’s virtual, gives us a sense of belonging and improves our emotional well-being. It can also help lower anxiety and depression, boost our self-esteem and self-worth, and actually improve our immune systems.

Take some time each week to reach out to people and get out and socialize!

Practicing Gratitude

Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you.” It’s about recognizing and appreciating the good things in life. This is such a simple practice that will practically guarantee you live a long and happy life.

Gratitude really is the magnet for miracles (and joy!).

Keep a gratitude journal, write thank-you notes, or just take a moment each day to reflect on something you’re thankful for. Gratitude helps people feel more positive and remind them to count their blessings, not their problems.

Regular Hydration

Water plays a very important role in maintaining every single system in your body, even anti-aging. It helps with digestion, keeps skin glowing, keeps your joints lubricated, helps the brain function optimally, and so much more.

Aim for 8 glasses of water a day, but remember, needs can vary based on factors like activity level and climate. It’s also good to point out that many fruits and vegetables we consume have water in them, too and are great for helping you stay hydrated.

If you don’t like drinking plain water (I sure don’t), try adding in a squirt of lemon/lime juice or tossing some mint leaves or cucumber slices for added nutrients and a boost of flavour.

Limiting Alcohol

Drinking alcohol can lead to numerous health issues, including depression, liver disease, and certain cancers. It’s recommended to limit intake and enjoy in moderation or only on special occasions.

Over time, excessive alcohol use can lead to the development of chronic diseases and other serious problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, and digestive problems.

It’s important to note that if you do drink daily, it might be time to speak to a professional about your drinking problem so that you can enjoy a long and happy life, alcohol free.

No Smoking

I’m fairly certain I don’t have to go on about how bad smoking is for you. If you are a smoker, try and reduce or quit smoking. I used hypnosis and it worked for me. Willpower also played a huge role in that.

There isn’t a smoker on the planet who is happy they are a smoker. They’re unhealthy, it stinks, and it’s expensive. You will definitely not live a long and happy life if you continue to smoke.

Canada offers free quit smoking kits if you are considering quitting and are Canadian. YouTube has tons of free guided meditations on quitting.

Regular Mental Stimulation

Keeping your mind active and engaged will help maintain cognitive function as we age, which will keep you sharp and happy. Mental stimulation can include reading, puzzles, or learning a new skill.

Even social activities like conversation and playing games can provide the stimulation you need to help you live a long and happy life. Mental exercises help keep your brain active as you get older and can slow down brain aging, delaying cognitive decline and keeping you mentally sharp for longer.

There are so many free brain games on the internet, too. I try to play at least 10 minutes each night.

Be a kind human

Acts of kindness, big or small, not only contribute to a sense of purpose and community but also lead to a long and happy life. This could be through volunteering, helping a neighbour, or donating to a cause you care about.

Several research projects have indicated that helping others has significant benefits, from making your body “glow” to reduced stress and anxiety and a long and happy life!

Do something every day that is kind and generous, and watch how your life changes.

final thoughts on how to live a long and happy life

Living a long and happy life isn’t about following a strict set of rules. It’s about finding balance in all aspects of life – physical, emotional, and mental.

By practicing these scientifically-backed habits in your daily routine, you’re setting the foundation for a healthier, happier, and potentially longer life. Remember, it’s never too late to start living healthier!