6 daily habits of people who tend to live long and happy lives, says psychology

Ever wonder why some people seem to not just live longer but enjoy their years with energy and joy?

It’s not just luck or genetics—there are certain habits these individuals tend to have in common that help them thrive well into old age.

While we can’t control everything about our lifespan, we do have a say in how we spend our days and the small choices that add up over time.

As I’ve come to realize, it’s often the simple things we do daily that have the biggest impact on both our health and happiness.

Curious to know what they are? Let’s explore the six daily habits that have been scientifically linked to a longer, happier life.

1) Embrace positivity

The first daily habit of people who tend to live long, happy lives is embracing positivity.

Psychology has long pointed out the impact of our mindset on our overall well-being. Positive thinkers, research suggests, tend to live longer and happier lives.

This doesn’t mean they ignore life’s challenges or difficulties. Instead, they approach these hurdles with a positive outlook, seeing them as opportunities for growth and learning rather than as insurmountable problems.

It’s not always easy to maintain a positive mindset, especially when things aren’t going our way.

But making a conscious effort to look at the brighter side of life can make a significant difference in our mental and physical health.

So how do you cultivate positivity? Start by appreciating the small things in life, practicing gratitude, and focusing on solutions rather than problems.

And remember – a positive mindset is a habit. It takes time to develop, but the benefits are well worth it.

2) Regular physical activity

Second on the list is regular physical activity. This doesn’t surprise anyone, does it? After all, we’ve all heard about the countless benefits of exercise, which include a happier and longer life!

But let me share a personal example. I was never much of a gym-goer; I preferred the comfort of my couch. However, I noticed that I was often tired and stressed.

So, I decided to make a change and started incorporating regular physical activity into my daily routine.

At first, it was hard. I was out of shape and even simple exercises felt like a mountain to climb.

But with time, not only did I get better physically, but I also noticed a significant improvement in my mood and energy levels.

Now, whether it’s a quick jog around the block or a yoga session in my living room, exercise is a fundamental part of my day.

And trust me when I say this: it’s played a huge role in improving my overall happiness and well-being.

So whether it’s going for a swim, taking a dance class, or simply walking your dog, find an activity you love and stick to it. Your body – and mind – will thank you!

3) Healthy eating

A critical habit of those living long and happy lives is healthy eating. We are, quite literally, what we eat.

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can not only help you maintain a healthy weight but also boost your mood and energy levels.

On the other hand, a diet high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can lead to a host of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and even depression.

Here’s something to ponder on: The Mediterranean diet, which is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil, has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease and longer life expectancy.

It’s no surprise that people living in the Mediterranean region are known for their longevity.

So the next time you’re planning your meals, remember the importance of a balanced and nutritious diet for a long and happy life.

4) Mindfulness and meditation

The fourth habit is rooted in the ancient teachings of Buddhism: the practice of mindfulness and meditation.

Buddhism teaches us to live in the present moment, free from past regrets and future anxieties. This is where mindfulness comes in.

It’s a practice of consciously focusing the mind in the present moment without judgment and without attachment to thoughts or feelings.

Incorporating mindfulness into your daily life can significantly reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and enhance emotional intelligence.

In my book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I delve deeper into the ways we can apply Buddhist teachings to our modern lives for greater peace, happiness, and longevity.

Meditation, a key aspect of mindfulness, is also a common habit among those who live long, happy lives.

An interesting study found that practicing loving-kindness meditation gives us longer telomeres (the protective caps on the ends of our chromosomes).

Our telomeres normally shorten with age, but as the study discovered, meditation lengthens them and thus slows down aging.

So why not give it a try? Start with just a few minutes each day, focusing on your breath or a simple mantra. You might be surprised at the positive impact it has on your life.

5) Prioritizing sleep

Sleep often takes a backseat in our busy lives. We stay up late to watch one more episode, finish an assignment, or scroll through social media.

I’ve been there, burning the midnight oil, convincing myself that I can function just fine on a few hours of sleep.

But the truth is, consistent lack of sleep took a toll on my health and happiness. I was always tired, irritable, and found it hard to concentrate on tasks.

That’s when I realized the importance of prioritizing sleep. Good quality sleep is as essential to our bodies as food and water. It’s a time for rest and recovery, allowing our bodies to repair and our minds to process the day’s events.

Since making sleep a priority, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. And it’s not just me.

Research shows that getting seven hours of sleep each night is linked to a longer lifespan and better quality of life.

So if you’re skimping on sleep, it might be time to reconsider your bedtime routine. Your body and mind will thank you for it!

6) Maintaining social relationships

The final habit of people who live long, happy lives is maintaining strong relationships.

We humans are social creatures by nature. We thrive on connection, understanding, and a sense of belonging.

And research backs this up, showing that those with strong social connections tend to live longer and healthier lives.

But it’s not about having a large number of friends or an overflowing social calendar. It’s about the quality of those relationships.

It’s about having people in your life who you can trust, who understand you, who make you feel valued and loved.

So take the time to nurture your relationships. Reach out to a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while, spend quality time with your family, or simply lend a listening ear to someone in need.

After all, at the end of our lives, it’s not the things we accumulated that matter most, but the relationships we’ve built and the love we’ve shared.

Final reflections: It’s all interconnected

When we look closely at these six habits, we realize that they’re all deeply interconnected.

Embracing positivity, for instance, can make it easier to build and maintain strong relationships. Meanwhile, prioritizing sleep can help us be more mindful and disciplined in all of our other habits.

In essence, each habit isn’t independent but part of a wholesome approach towards living a long and happy life.

A central theme in my book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, is the interconnectedness of everything.

This doesn’t just apply to the grand scheme of the universe, but also to our daily habits and how they interweave to create our lives.

So as you reflect on these habits, consider not just adopting them individually, but also how they can collectively transform your life.

After all, the pursuit of a long and happy life is not about isolated acts but an ongoing journey of interconnected growth and fulfillment.