People Share their Secrets to a Happy Life

People Share Their Secrets to a Happy Life and Longevity

What is the key to living a long and happy life? From small glasses of something strong in the evening to fresh air and daily labor, opinions vary widely. To find out, we polled some of the world’s oldest and happiest people to uncover the lifestyle habits that contributed to their remarkable longevity.

Who Are the World’s Oldest People?

Some of the most remarkable supercentenarians include:

• Jeanne Calment (1875–1997) – the oldest verified person ever, from France

• Jiroemon Kimura (1897–2013) – the oldest man, from Japan

• Charlotte Hughes (1877–1993) – the oldest person in the United Kingdom

• Kane Tanaka (1903–2022) – the current oldest living person in Japan

By examining their habits, we gain insight into how to live long, fulfilling, and joyful lives.

Secrets to Happiness and Longevity

Kindness and Compassion

Gertrude Weaver, who lived to 117, credited her long life to kindness and treating others well. Her simple advice:

“Treat people right and treat others the way you want them to treat you.”

Acts of kindness and compassion are common among supercentenarians, showing that positive social interactions may enhance health and happiness.

Daily Exercise: Push-Ups and Movement

Duranord Veillard, who lived to 111, emphasized daily physical activity. He started each day at 5:00 a.m. with 5–7 press-ups, followed by a nutritious breakfast of oatmeal, fruit, and tea, and ended the day with fish and vegetables.

Even short daily workouts can improve mobility, cardiovascular health, and longevity, making regular exercise a cornerstone of a long life.

Hobbies and Mental Engagement: Knitting

Alfred Date, who lived to 110, spent much of his later years knitting sweaters for injured penguins and for his friends.

Hobbies that combine creativity, fine motor skills, and purpose can provide mental stimulation, reduce stress, and contribute to healthy aging and life satisfaction.

Personal Lifestyle Choices: Avoiding Stress

Jessie Gallan, Scotland’s oldest resident at 109, had unique advice:

• Eat a warm breakfast, like porridge

• Wake up smiling every day

• Avoid unnecessary stress, which for her humorously included avoiding men

Her tips highlight the importance of stress reduction, positivity, and daily routines for longevity and happiness.

Key Takeaways for a Happy, Long Life

From supercentenarians around the world, common threads emerge:

• Kindness and compassion improve emotional well-being

• Regular physical activity supports mobility and heart health

• Engaging hobbies stimulate the mind and promote purpose

• Positive lifestyle choices reduce stress and increase happiness

• Nutrition and daily routines reinforce overall wellness

By integrating these habits into daily life, anyone can enhance longevity, happiness, and quality of life, regardless of age.