How to Live a Long Life

Medical advances are helping humans to

live longer than ever before. The average

American lives 78.4 years. That's almost

eight years longer than the average life span in 1970.

What steps can you take to help ensure the longest

possible life?

* Exercise. Find the exercise regime that works for you and stick to it.
* Be positive. Don't dwell on the negatives that will arise throughout your life. They will only produce stress that will negaively impact your health.
* Enrich your life with friends who are a positive influence. A positive support system will keep you energized and active.
* Do not smoke. Smoking is one of the most detrimental habits for you and anyone around you. It leads to a higher rate of cancer and other severe illnesses such an emphysema.
* Wear sunblock whenever you are spending time outside, even on a cloudy or cool day.
* Drink plenty of water. Water will have a positive affect on many aspects of your life.
* Avoid simple carbohydrates, which are difficult for your body to break down and will lead to weight gain.
* Keep things in moderation. Too much food, drink, drugs (legal or not), sex...even too much exercise...can potentially be hazardous.   
* Eat your fruits and veggies. They will provide many beneficial natural vitamins and sugars.
* Eliminate as many causes of stress as possible. Cut off friendships with those who are a negative influence...Pay your bills on time and manage your money wisely...Do not worry about issues you cannot control...
* Be optimistic. Look at life from the "glass half-full" perspective. Try to find positives, even in gloomy situations.
* Work is healthy. Many people complain about their job, but most of the time work will stimulate your mind, help to foster friendships and sometimes (depending on the job) it will help you to keep fit.
* Laughter really is good medicine. Don't take things too seriously. Laugh at yourself from time to time. Have some fun with your friends and family members. Take in a comedy club once in a while.
* Set goals. You are never too old to accomplish new things, even if you are retired. Finish that novel you always wanted to write. Learn to play guitar. Set goals for your career, your relationships, your health, etc.
* Take proper precautions. You don't have to be a worry-wart, but you should not get yourself into dangerous situations. Avoid physican confrontations. Avoid risky sexual behavior.
* Get regular physicals. This is the best way to detect possible problems and to prevent them from occurring.
* Always remain open to new information or new ideas. Your life should be one long education process. Take classes. Stay informed. Keep your brain active.
* Get plenty of sleep. As we age our need for sleep decreases. But everyone needs enough sleep to adequately recharge our body and our mind.

Of course, there are no certainties in life. One person may live the healthiest possible lifestyle, but their life could get cut short for any number of reasons. However, adhering a set of healthy rules like the ones cited above will likely add years to your life.