The bond between happiness and longevity has long captivated researchers. Why Do happy people live longer? This question has driven scientists and psychologists to conduct numerous studies into how emotional well-being affects physical health.
A 2011 study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that happy people live 35% longer than those who aren’t. That was even after adjusting for factors like illness, finances and depression.
While it might seem obvious, the reasons behind it are intricate and still being uncovered. Understanding this link not only reveals the secrets to a longer life but also highlights the importance of mental and emotional wellness in our daily routines.
Exploring Habits and Traits That Foster Happiness with Age
Positive Attitude Changes Everything – PACE
Good genes do play an important part, but good lifestyle habits have a large influence on happiness and longevity as well. The rider in the back seat above is 99-years-young!
As we journey through life, our pursuit of happiness takes on different forms and meanings.
While youth often associates happiness with external achievements and material gains, the perspective shifts with age. This leads many to seek contentment in simpler pleasures and inner fulfillment.
But what exactly contributes to this shift, and why do happy people seem to live longer?
In this article, we delve into the habits, behaviors, and traits that explain why some individuals become happier and more content as they age.
The Connection Between Happiness and Longevity
Research consistently highlights the profound impact of happiness on overall health and longevity.
Studies have shown that happier individuals tend to exhibit lower levels of stress, reduced risk of chronic diseases, and enhanced immune function. This all contributes to a longer lifespan.
But what sets happy individuals apart, and how do they cultivate and sustain their happiness over time?
1-Gratitude Practice
One of the cornerstone habits of happy individuals is their commitment to gratitude.
Gratitude reduces many toxic emotions. It increases happiness and reduces depression.
According to Whitney Rehabilitation Center, research shows that grateful people are healthier. They display:
- 16% fewer physical symptoms
- 10% less physical pain
- 25% increased sleep quality
As people age, they often develop a deeper appreciation for life’s blessings, recognizing the value of both big milestones and small everyday joys.
By practicing gratitude regularly, whether through journaling, reflection, or simply expressing thanks, older adults cultivate a positive outlook that fosters happiness and contentment.
2-Emotional Resilience
With age comes wisdom and resilience. This allows individuals to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and perspective.
Happy older adults often exhibit a remarkable ability to bounce back from setbacks and challenges.
They view challenges with a more positive outlook. They see them as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles.
Resilience is one of the pillars of successful aging. “Resilience” is defined as the ability to bounce back after a stressful encounter or adversity in life.
Emotional resilience not only enhances your well-being but also contributes to your overall longevity.
3-The Importance of Friends and Family
Meaningful connections with family and friends play a pivotal role in shaping happiness and well-being as we age.
Older adults tend to place a greater emphasis on nurturing relationships, investing time and effort in fostering bonds that bring joy and fulfillment.
By surrounding themselves with supportive social networks, happy individuals cultivate a sense of belonging and purpose that enhances their quality of life and extends their years and contributes to their overall happiness.
Reach Out to Your Friends
According to Forbes, “Participants… didn’t just let things happen. They made plans with friends, reached out to people, and joined community and social groups. They intentionally nurtured their in-person social connections.”
4-Let Go of Unrealistic Expectations
As people age, they often learn to let go of unrealistic expectations and embrace imperfection. Making and admitting mistakes is a necessary part of growing and learning.
Working hard, being committed, and diligent are all desirable features.
Strive for Excellence
However, footballer Cristiano Ronaldo says he “strives for excellence, not perfection… I like to feel that things are done well.”
Have Compassion Toward Yourself
Happy older adults understand that life is not about striving for perfection but rather embracing the beauty of self-compassion and they avoid negative self-talk.
By releasing the pressure to measure up to unattainable standards, they free themselves to experience greater joy and contentment in the present moment.
5-Engage in Leisure Activities
Many older individuals find joy in pursuing hobbies, interests, and leisure activities.
Whether it’s gardening, painting, playing music, or exploring nature.
Engaging in activities that bring pleasure and fulfillment provides a sense of purpose that enriches their lives.
These pursuits foster a sense of purpose and fulfillment that contributes to their overall well-being.
One woman I know who is in her 80s seems always ready to try a new adventure. Her son has a gyrocopter. It might be described as a variation of a helicopter.
She was excited to take a ride with her son in his own gyrocopter! Below you can see a picture of her, her two sons, and the gyrocopter.
Her 99-year-old aunt enjoyed a ride as well, as you can see in the postcard below.
Today will be a good day for those who remain cheerful and optimistic!
6-Live in the Present Moment
Older adults often develop a deeper appreciation for the present moment.
Mindfulness practices become increasingly important as people age, allowing them to savor the richness of the present moment.
They cultivate inner peace and tranquility. Happy older adults find joys in simple pleasures.
They embrace techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and mindful awareness.
In doing this they reduce stress, enhance self-awareness, and foster a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them.
It helps them find joy in simple pleasures.
7-Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Taking care of physical health is paramount for happiness and longevity in older adults.
Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep are essential components of a healthy lifestyle that supports overall well-being.
Keeping regular contact with their healthcare practitioners can keep small problems from becoming larger ones.
By prioritizing self-care and making conscious choices to nurture your body, happy individuals enjoy greater vitality and energy to fully engage in life’s pleasures and pursuits.
Adopting habits such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep can significantly impact mood and overall well-being as people age.
Lower Body Weight and a Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases
The question of whether thin people live longer has been a topic of debate in some scientific and health circles.
While some studies suggest that maintaining a lower body weight is associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
Other research has challenged this notion, emphasizing the importance of overall health and lifestyle factors over body weight alone.
Factors such as diet quality, exercise habits, metabolic health, and genetics all play significant roles in determining longevity. This complicates the relationship between body weight and lifespan.
What Is a Healthy Weight?
Do thin people live longer? The concept of “healthy weight” varies widely among individuals. It is essential to consider individual differences and overall well-being rather than focusing solely on weight.
Ultimately, while maintaining a healthy weight is important for overall health, it’s just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to living a long and fulfilling life.
8-Cultivate a Sense of Humor
Humor becomes a cherished companion on the journey through aging. It offers a lighthearted perspective and a reason for laughter in the face of adversity.
Happy older adults maintain a playful and humorous outlook on life, finding joy in the absurdities and ironies of everyday existence.
By embracing laughter and levity, they not only alleviate stress but also foster deeper connections with others.
Laughter enhances the overall quality of your life.
It becomes a valuable coping mechanism for many older people. So, even in difficult circumstances, it becomes a way to deal with difficult situations.
9-Practicing Forgiveness
Everyone has been hurt along the way.
Letting go of resentment and practicing forgiveness is essential for emotional well-being and happiness as we age.
Holding onto grudges and negative emotions only serves to weigh you down. It hinders your ability to experience true peace and contentment.
By releasing the past and embracing forgiveness, happy individuals free themselves from unnecessary burdens. They open their hearts to greater love, compassion, and joy.
10-A Sense of Purpose
Japan is home to some of the world’s longest-living people. According to a 2022 report by the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare, there are 90,526 centenarians in that country. (Those aged 100 and above.)
The Japanese have a word for a “sense of purpose”.
Ikigai is a Japanese term that blends two words together. “Iki” means “to live” and “Gai” means “reason”. Put that together and you have “a reason to live”. It is a concept that compels people to get out of bed in the morning and discover a life of meaning, purpose, and joy.
The Five Pillars of Ikigai are:
- Starting small.
- Releasing yourself.
- Harmony and sustainability.
- The joy of little things.
- Being in the here and now.
Another way to look at it is:
- What you love. – Your passion.
- What the world needs. – Your mission.
- What you are good at. – Your vocation.
- What you can get paid for. – Your profession.
The concept of Ikigai is unique to every individual. And while it may take a while for you to discover, it can ultimately bring you great rewards.
The World’s Oldest Practicing Doctor
According to the Guinness World Record, Dr. Howard Tucker is the oldest living practicing doctor
According to him, “I think that to retire, one can face potential shriveling up and ending in a nursing home. It’s fun staying alive and working” he said.
11-Continue to Learn and Grow
Finally, lifelong learning and personal development contribute to a sense of fulfillment and purpose in life.
Continued learning and personal development keep you mentally stimulated and engaged. These are hallmarks of happiness and fulfillment in older adults.
Whether it’s pursuing new interests, acquiring new skills, or seeking out opportunities for self-improvement, happy individuals remain curious and engaged in the world around them.
By embracing the journey of lifelong learning, they nourish their minds, expand their horizons, and enrich their lives with new experiences and discoveries.
One Man’s Journey of Fitness
As one man said, “Exercise is so important for all of us, especially as we get older.
I’m just 14 months off my 80th birthday and I lift weights 3 times a week and walk and bike ride most days as well.
I weigh the same as I did when I was an 18-year-old athlete.
You need good motivation to make a start, but I find that in the end, it’s habit that keeps you going.
Develop good habits and you’ll keep them for life!”
Happiness with Selfish Motives vs. Ikigai Happiness
Happiness with Selfish Motives
This often stems from fulfilling personal desires, ambitions, or material goals that primarily benefit the individual.
This type of happiness can be short-lived and may lead to isolation or dissatisfaction in the long run.
For example, pursuing wealth, status, or power for personal gain may bring temporary pleasure, but it often fails to provide lasting fulfillment.
The pursuit of self-centered goals can lead to stress, competition, and a lack of meaningful connections with others, as it prioritizes personal gains over collective well-being.
- Examples: Accumulating wealth for personal luxury, achieving status for self-validation, or manipulating situations to gain power are instances where happiness is pursued with selfish motives. These actions can lead to a sense of emptiness once the initial excitement fades, as they often lack deeper meaning or purpose beyond personal satisfaction.
- Consequences: Over time, the happiness derived from selfish motives may erode due to its superficial nature. It can lead to feelings of emptiness, loneliness, or even guilt if the means to achieve these ends harm others or compromise ethical standards.
Ikigai Happiness
In contrast, Ikigai Happiness is rooted in a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Ikigai, a Japanese concept, encourages individuals to find joy in activities that balance personal passions, strengths, and contributions to society.
It involves engaging in work or activities that not only bring personal satisfaction but also benefit others and align with one’s values.
This approach to happiness is sustainable and often results in a more profound sense of well-being.
- Examples: Someone with a strong sense of ikigai might find happiness in a career that they love, which also allows them to help others, such as teaching, healthcare, or environmental work. Alternatively, a person might derive ikigai from hobbies or volunteer work that align with their values and bring joy to themselves and others.
- Consequences: Ikigai happiness leads to lasting fulfillment as it is tied to meaningful goals and positive social interactions. It promotes a sense of belonging, reduces stress, and contributes to overall well-being. People who pursue ikigai are more likely to experience joy, contentment, and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
Key Differences
- Focus: Selfish motives prioritize individual gains, often at the expense of others, whereas ikigai centers on a balance between personal satisfaction and social contribution.
- Sustainability: Happiness from selfish motives is often fleeting and may lead to long-term dissatisfaction, while ikigai fosters enduring well-being and purpose.
- Impact on Others: Selfish happiness can alienate others, while ikigai enhances relationships and community through shared values and meaningful contributions.
In summary, while happiness with selfish motives can provide short-term pleasure, it lacks the depth and sustainability of ikigai happiness, which is deeply rooted in a purposeful, balanced, and socially connected life.
Why Do Happy People Live Longer?
From bolstering immune function to fostering healthier lifestyle choices, happiness seems to wield a powerful influence over our physical health.
Happiness is multifaceted, with numerous habits and behaviors. There are many traits contributing to the profound connection between happiness and longevity.
By cultivating gratitude, resilience, and meaningful relationships, embracing excellence, and prioritizing self-care, a sense of purpose, and personal growth, older adults can nurture happiness and well-being that extends far into their golden years.
As we continue to explore the secrets of happiness and longevity, we need to be inspired from the wisdom and joy of those who have mastered the art of living well.
The Beatitudes – wall hanging
Two Books You May Enjoy
Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity – Hardcover
#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • OVER ONE MILLION COPIES SOLD
By Peter Attia MD and Bill Gifford
Check Amazon’s Current Price Here
How Not to Age: The Scientific Approach to Getting Healthier as You Get Older – Hardcover
Instant New York Times Bestseller
By Michael Greger M.D. FACLM
Check Amazon’s Current Price Here
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Disclaimer: If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional. No content on this site should be substituted for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified healthcare practitioner. The information contained here is for informational purposes only. It is from my research and personal experience.
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