6 Healthy Habits to Help You Live Longer

For thousands of years, our ancestors have succoured the earth in search of a means to not only stave off the marks of ageing but also to attain eternal youth. From ancient myths to contemporary poetry and literature, it has been well documented throughout many great narrations of this ultimate quest.

While there are no magical fountains, time-defying elixirs, or ancient Shamans espousing mystical, youth-rejuvenating concoctions, the possibility of living longer has become a reality. It is all thanks to modern advancements in today’s medical fields. But unlike the tell-tales, the secret to a prolonged vitality simply lies in your everyday routine. Here are the six habits for you to incorporate:

1. Keep Your Body Active

Pioneering in the land of a long life is none other than exercise. This habit has truly brought the mythical “Fountain of Youth” to life by lowering the risk of age-related diseases like high blood pressure, stroke, as well as certain malignancies. Blood is pumped through your body during active movements, further strengthening your heart muscles and extending your overall life expectancy.

Even when you are sitting in idle, the increase in blood flow after working out can also help you circulate better. Meaning that all cells inside your body will be nourished, resulting in increased vitality and more effective tissue regeneration and repair. The benefits of exercise are no longer a mystery, so you better put on your running cap, and head outside to the park before the sun finally takes its leave.

2. Consume Antioxidant-Rich Diet

In simple terms, antioxidants are vitamins and minerals found in fruits and vegetables- and it is one of the best defences against ageing. They help shield your cells from free radicals, which are potentially dangerous substances.

Lucky for chocolate lovers, dark chocolate is extremely healthy. It has 5.8 mmol antioxidants per 100 grammes, which is higher than blueberries or raspberries. Plus, dark chocolate's antioxidants have been linked to various health benefits, including protection against inflammation and heart disease.

3. Drink More Water

Many fail to realize that the most natural way to achieve that gleaming, soft, and healthy skin we all desire is to simply drink more water. Drinking adequate water on a regular basis can aid weight loss, skin health, and overall body efficiency. A healthy range is roughly about eight glasses of water per day. This is, however, not limited to only water but also other fluids such as milk, coffee, and teas.  

It is possible that you are dehydrated if your skin has lost its suppleness. Try pinching your skin and see if it bounces back. If it does not, you should drink more water to hydrate yourself and puff up your cells. Pay special attention to your under-eyes as well; if they appear darker than usual, know that it is time to chug down that bottle.

4. Apply Sunscreen

Clouds do not hinder ultraviolet rays, and they are unaffected by hot or cold conditions. If you do not feel like you are absorbing the rays, you almost certainly are. Even on foggy days, more than 70% of the sun's UV radiation can penetrate your skin. And just when you think it could not get any worse, the sand and water below you can reflect those rays, further amplifying their impact.

This is why you should always protect your skin with sunscreen. SPF in sunscreen offers anti-ageing properties and protects your skin from skin cancer and severe sunburns. In addition, a daily moisturizer with SPF might help you streamline your skincare procedures. However, mixing your SPF with another substance can dilute the effectiveness of your sunscreen.

5. Get Enough Sleep

Nobody needs to tell us twice to go to bed, yet the truth is that many of us fail to get the recommended hours of sleep every night. Whether it is stress, jet lag, or your mind is just buzzing with ideas, these problems can put you awake until your alarm goes off.

Contrary to popular belief, sleep is a busy period for your body. Several systems are at work to ensure that everything from your cardiovascular system to your brain functions well. As a result, getting enough sleep can enhance your general health, potentially extending your life.

6. Invest in a Humidifier

When your skin's protective barrier is compromised due to extreme heat or cold, it creates small cracks in the skin, allowing moisture to escape. In addition, abrasive factors like gale-force winds and hot showers can wreak havoc on the skin's lipid layer. This is where the magic of humidifiers begins.  Humidifiers help restore air quality levels, giving skin the moisture it needs even in the driest of climates.

Humidifier also hydrates the nasal and upper respiratory passages. This can ease your breathing, especially when you have a running nose or chest congestion. Just remember to clean it once a week. They can become a breeding ground for germs, fungi and even yeast which can deteriorate your overall health. Use ordinary soap and water to clean your humidifier, and make sure it is thoroughly dry before putting it back in.

It takes more than a stellar facial and body care regimen to achieve Aphrodite’s longevity. While maintaining an ironclad commitment to a healthy habit is never easy, the outcome is just as worthwhile as the daily efforts you put in.