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What if the secrets to a fulfilling and joyful life come from the simple insights of our elders? In the tranquil Blue Zones and beyond, the World’s Oldest People whisper their secrets, suggesting that happiness is within our grasp. Their wisdom, gathered over a century or more, offers valuable lessons on longevity, purpose, and well-being.
These captivating individuals have surfed the waves of a century’s worth of change. Their rich experiences offer a one-of-a-kind map to staying strong, conquering new challenges, and flourishing in simplicity.
These wise souls share their best tips, which they have honed through experience. These tips don’t guarantee success, but I like the odds you’ll benefit from them. I’m guessing once you review them, you’ll feel the same.
Embrace Positivity and Humor
Jeanne Calment lived longer than any verified person, reaching 122 years old. Among the World’s Oldest People, her secret to such a prolonged life included a diet with plenty of olive oil, regular chocolate treats, and a good attitude. Even in her later years, she upheld a cheerful spirit, demonstrating the healing power of laughter and staying positive.
Stay Active
Kane Tanaka marked 119 years and 107 days on the calendar. She firmly believed in staying active, which she practiced by diving into books and solving math puzzles. Her dedication to keeping her mind engaged shows us the power of lifelong physical and mental exercise.
Nourish Relationships
Susannah Mushatt Jones lived to the impressive age of 116. She believed it was due to her close-knit family connections and the importance of cherishing relationships. Her family told USAToday that the love and support from being close to family and friends played a significant role in staying mentally healthy.
Eat Delicious Food
Misao Okawa’s 117 years prove that a simple life can lead to a long one. She suggested eating just enough to keep a healthy weight and dodge diseases from unhealthy habits. She credited her love for sushi, ramen noodles, and beef stew as part of her secret to longevity. She also wouldn’t say no to a slice of cake.
Find Purpose
Finding purpose is a powerful motivator for those who reach 100 and beyond. Among the World’s Oldest People, Dr. Shigeaki Hinohara, who lived to be 105, is an inspiring example. His enduring dedication to medicine, treating patients, and working extensive hours into his 100s suggest that discovering something meaningful to do can make you live a longer and happier life.
Cultivate Kindness
Throughout her 116 years, Gertrude Weaver cultivated the principle of kindness. She believed treating people well and with the same empathy you want to receive is a must-have. Living with warmth and respect can achieve personal satisfaction and well-being, making a ripple effect of generosity that could inspire others.
Nourish and Thrive
Bernardo LaPallo lived to the impressive age of 114 years and often spoke about the power of a natural diet and regular gratitude. His long life thrived thanks to consuming a bounty of organic fruits and vegetables and avoiding processed and fast foods. His approach values eating well, staying active, exercising, and never underestimating what faith can do.
Stay Single
At 116, Emma Morano was the last living person of the 19th century. She witnessed two World Wars, the invention of the Internet, and personal tragedies like the loss of her only son and the divorce of her husband.
During the interview, she shared that her longevity is owed to her independence. Since her divorce in her late 30s, she has led a stress-free life, which, alongside her unconventional diet, has contributed to her remarkable age.
Value Simplicity
Violet Brown appreciated a simple life focused on deep acceptance. She lived in the same house for most of her 117 years, and her routine involved reading the Bible daily and engaging with her community. Her journey demonstrates the beauty of simplicity and the profound impact of spiritual and community-based rituals.
Embrace Nature
At 114, Juan Vicente Pérez Mora’s life in the Venezuelan Andes reflects a commitment to routine and the simple pleasures of nature. His longevity is a nod to the idea that a well-lived life doesn’t need to be complicated. His consistent lifestyle echoes the rhythm of the natural world around him.
A Life in Balance
Jiroemon Kimura from Japan lived to the age of 116. Following the principle of ‘eating light to live long,’ he always kept his meals modest. His discipline and balance in consumption represent a philosophy of moderation in all things, which could be crucial to longevity.
Stay Connected
Jessie Gallan, a Scottish woman who reached the age of 109, attributed her many years to a surprising factor: avoiding men. While humorous, her lesson can be about staying true to oneself and maintaining social connections to encourage personal happiness and well-being.
Power of Positive Relationships
Christian Mortensen lived to be 115 and felt that friendships and happy relationships were his fountain of youth. His longevity speaks to the power of positivity found in social connections. Mortensen’s warm interactions and strong bonds with others were as revitalizing to him as food and drink.
Find Joy in Giving
American pediatrician Leila Denmark, who practiced medicine until the age of 103 and lived to 114, found her greatest joy in serving her community. Her dedication to caring for children and often providing free guidance to parents defines a life enriched by generosity, suggesting that giving back is a crucial ingredient for a fulfilling and lengthy existence.
Cultivate Discipline and Flexibility
At 114 years old, Walter Breuning’s long life says a lot about the value of routine and being open to new experiences. His strategy was straightforward: two meals daily and a career stopping at 67. Yet, his eagerness to roll with life’s punches really made the difference.
Faith in God
Witnessing a century of transformation, Eunice Sanborn, who lived to be 114, loved every single bit of her long life. Despite facing adversity and loss, Sanborn remained a faithful church member and gave back to her community by volunteering at a local hospital. In an interview, Sanborn credited her long life to her unwavering faith in God, stating that “my secret is my Savior.”
Maintain a Humble Spirit
Jeralean Talley lived to be 116 and was known for her simple, humble living. She loved bowling even past 100 and believed her long life was attributed to faith and not worrying about things she couldn’t change. Her message was clear: being calm and living at ease can make a big difference.
Go to Bed Early
With her 118 years, Felicie Cormier showed us the profound impact of discipline and family love. With thirteen children to raise, she seeded the values of unity and care while maintaining a habit of early nights and sunlit mornings.
Her commitment to a lifestyle free from tobacco and alcohol took her to live longer with healthful routines and the warmth of family bonds.
Work Hard
At 117, Marie-Louise Meilleur’s life was full of resilience and hard work. Encouraged by a large and supportive family, she found richness in the firm commitment to her loved ones and the labor that marked her days. As the matriarch of numerous descendants—85 grandchildren, 80 great-grandchildren, and 57 great-great-grandchildren, her journey is a tale of dedication and a legacy of perseverance.
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