Nine Longevity Secrets and Practices From Around the World

For centuries, humans have turned to specific foods, exercises and lifestyles to keep their mind and body in top form – and to extend their lifespans. If you think that’s a pointless pursuit given your genetic makeup, think again. A Danish study concluded that only 20% of our aging process is due to genetics and a whopping 80% depends on our lifestyle. That means you may have the power to largely control your health and longevity through mind-body wellness practices. Even better, we can learn from other cultures that have established positive outcomes for generations. Read on to find out the longevity secrets and tips for a healthy life from around the world.

 

Perhaps you’ve heard about the Blue Zones, five very special places around the world with the highest percentage of centenarians. These longevity hotspots are:

 

Ayurveda (in Sanskrit, “ayur” means knowledge, “veda” means life) originated in India over 3,000 years ago as a natural system of medicine designed to be a scientific guide to live a long and disease-free life. This plant-based practice is all about preventing and healing disease through diet and various physical therapies based on an individual’s “dosha” or mind-body characteristics. The three doshas incorporate the five basic elements of our world:

 

You can determine your dosha type with a free online quiz like this one or by consulting a practitioner of ayurvedic medicine, who can then advise you on what Ayurvedic herbs and practices to incorporate into your lifestyle.

 

According to Ayurveda Institute, ayurveda has a term specific to the practice of anti-aging, Rasayana, which in Sanskrit refers to clearing the channels of the body and mind for the natural flow of matter and energy. Rasayana is meant to help people of a mature age stay in tip-top shape, both physically and mentally, through a combination of a nourishing diet, wholesome activities and gentle herbs, according to the Institute.

 

While yoga became popular in the last few decades in the Western world, it’s another ancient practice that has its origins in the Indus-Sarasvati civilization in north India about 5,000 years ago. Sure, the deep stretches, meditation and breathwork will leave you feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and flexible – but most importantly, a regular yoga practice adds another anti-aging tool to your belt. Studies have found that yoga, like other mindful wellness practices, can actually change your body at a cellular level and reverse the process of cellular aging. Yoga also has a positive impact on the brain, which can decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

Even with its slow pace, tai chi, which has its foundations in the ancient Chinese philosophy of Taoism, is actually considered a martial art. But this easy-to-learn Chinese practice is especially excellent for those with chronic pain, joint pain or any kind of mobility issues. Aside from improving balance and mental health, tai chi is known for lowering blood pressure and decreasing inflammation.

 

Boosting wellness and longevity by sweating out toxins and increasing your heart rate has been around for centuries, as evident by the Northern European sauna traditions, Russian banyas, Turkish hammams and Native American sweat lodges. For example, Finland has over 3 million saunas for its population of 5 million.

 

Finally, science has caught up to age-old wisdom, confirming what certain cultures have long known to be true – a 2020 study found a link between frequent sauna bathing and benefits to mental and physical health, including a reduced risk of dementia.

 

A healthier lifestyle certainly promotes longevity, but it also allows you to live a more enjoyable life on a daily basis. What more can you ask for? Try out any of these wellness practices. Hopefully you’ll not only feel better – you’ll also be transforming into the best version of yourself.