“I believe that singing is the key to long life, a good figure, a stable temperament, increased intelligence, new friends, super self-confidence, heightened sexual attractiveness, and a better sense of humor.” ~ Brian Eno
Singing may help you live longer and better if you have a melodious voice and know how to sing. For those who don’t, here are 20 more attainable methods for a longer life.
1. Get married
Many studies have proven that married persons live longer than their unmarried counterparts. Marriage is especially beneficial for men – married men are 6% more likely to visit their doctor – probably because their wives encourage them to have regular checkups.
2. Have more sex
An active sex life will increase your chances of living longer. The American Journal of Cardiology revealed that men who have sex two or three times a week decrease their risk of heart disease by 45%.
3. Have kids later
Women who have children after the age of 40 are four times more likely to live up to 100 than women who give birth earlier in life.
4. Be a social animal
If that’s asking too much, at least maintain close ties with friends and family. Social interaction is a good way to avoid depression, increase your body’s immune system and help you live longer.
5. Daily dental flossing and brushing can add years to your life
Poor oral hygiene may increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Studies have shown that people with gingivitis and periodontitis have a mortality rate that is 23% to 46% per cent higher than those who don’t.
6. Interact with a pet
People who interact with pets are less lonely and depressed and more likely to get more exercise (especially if it’s a dog), factors that can add years to their lives.
7. Be optimistic
Most centenarians are optimistic, a key ingredient for living a long life.
8. It’s true, laughter really is the best medicine
Studies have found that 15 minutes of laughter a day can improve blood flow to the heart by 50%, which helps reduce heart disease.
9. Get a good night’s sleep
Studies on sleep habits found that people who sleep between six and a half and seven and a half hours a night live the longest. Additionally, people who sleep eight hours or more, or less than six and a half hours, don’t live quite as long.
10. Take a daily multivitamin
A regular dose of supplements (as advised by your doctor), including calcium and vitamin D, can help you live longer.
11. Participate religious activities
Many studies reveal that people who regularly attend religious services live longer, happier and healthier lives.
12. Don’t skip regular medical checkups
A number of diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease can be treated or even prevented if diagnosed in the early stages.
13. Stay fit
Exercise on a regular basis to maintain your body strong, which is the best insurance against disease and injuries.
14. Use your brain
Read books and magazines (or Toplst articles), learn a new language, take up a hobby, keep a diary, take photographs and learn how to edit them with a computer program – in other words, keep your mind active and engaged.
15. Develop stress-reduction habits
Walk, do yoga, talk with friends or join a club of like-minded individuals. You may not be able to avoid all sources of stress, but you can learn how to manage stress, which is one of the keys to preventing many diseases.
16. Help others
Volunteer work makes you happier, healthier and, consequently, helps you live a longer life. Studies show a strong link between volunteering and longevity.
17. Stay calm
According to a Chinese proverb, “He who knows patience knows peace.” Men who can’t control their anger are more than twice as likely to have a stroke than those who control their temper.
18. Watch your weight
Extra weight increases your risk of a heart attack, diabetes, cancer and other diseases that can shorten your life.
19. Eat well and drink alcohol in moderation
You should know this by now – eat 10 servings of fruits and vegetables per day (the more colorful the better), plenty of whole grains and a low content of salt, fat and sugar. A glass of red wine with a meal is good for you, a bottle will affect your liver, not to mention your driving skills.
20. Don’t smoke
Unless you’ve been living on a desert island, you’ve certainly heard this advice over and over.