Achieve a fulfilling and regret-free life with these 30 essential tips for longevity, happiness, and success

The anti-aging industry is filled with various innovative products and procedures that guarantee consumers a healthier, happier, and longer life. Some of these pursuits, such as cryotherapy or what the industry calls photorejuvenation, are experimental. On the other hand, some clinics, like Fountain Life in New York City, claim to be more practical, using biomarkers to predict health outcomes and providing patients with access to therapeutics.

The secret to a long life may not be as closely guarded or expensive as the $62 billion industry suggests. Instead, simple habits such as walking more, eating a balanced diet, and attending regular doctor's appointments are shared by superagers and supported by doctors and dietitians who specialize in studying lifespan.

Prolonging your life involves more than just physical fitness; a study from Harvard University found that having good relationships is crucial for a near 90-year-long life. Additionally, managing your finances can reduce stress and increase comfort in your later years.

To live a longer and more fulfilling life, you may not need lasers or freezers. Instead, consider the insights of longevity researchers, successful superagers, and residents of Blue Zones such as Okinawa, Japan and Sardinia, Italy, where staying active beyond age 90 is common.

You can do a lot today with little to no cost to improve your life and happiness.

30 essential tips for living a longer, happier, more successful life

Who do you want to spend your final day with? Warren Buffet values social investments as much as financial ones. To avoid regrets, Buffet asks himself who he'd like to see on his last day and makes an effort to spend more time with them now.

Limit intake of problematic P's: potatoes, pasta, pizza, protein, and pane (or bread), as they can quickly turn into sugar in your body and decrease lifespan, according to Valter Longo, director of the Longevity and Cancer Laboratory at the IFOM Institute of Oncology.

Perform a "financial audit" to assess your current assets, expenses, and savings, and forecast your financial situation in retirement. This will help you determine what adjustments you need to make to maintain a comfortable lifestyle in your golden years.

4. Postponing doctor's appointments is not a good idea, as it can lead to health problems. According to David Watson, a former professor of personality psychology at the University of Notre Dame, people who are conscientious are more likely to take care of their health and avoid harmful habits. "Conscientious people are better at staying on top of their health check-ups and making good choices, which can lead to better health outcomes," he says.

Warren Buffet advises writing your obituary to imagine your desired life story and work backwards.

Seek out new friendships or deepen existing ones to fill any gaps in emotional, mental, and practical support.

The Blue Zones, known for their high life expectancy, are mostly located near water. According to Dan Buettner, author of "The Blue Zones American Kitchen," it could be due to the calming effect of water or the moderate climate it brings.

To ensure you're covered by the Social Security program, consider increasing your retirement contribution by 1% or 2%, advises Anne Lester, a retirement expert and author of "Your Best Financial Life: Save Smart Now for the Future You Want."

Researchers found that people underestimate how much their friends want to hear from them, and an out-of-the-blue phone call is actually very appreciated, with the more unexpected the better.

The "hara hachi bu" rule, used in Okinawa, Japan, encourages eating only until you're 80% full. This Japanese phrase is part of the Blue Zones, regions known for their longer lifespans. Studies suggest that overeating may be linked to a shorter lifespan.

Postponing retirement until age 70 is the "most valuable" tool in financial planning, according to Suze Orman. By delaying your Social Security start date, you can receive a monthly payout that is over 75% higher than your age 62 benefit.

Visiting a museum can reduce stress levels, as experts agree that simply observing art, regardless of comprehension, has a calming effect.

13. Incorporate physical activity into daily routines. In the Italian Blue Zone of Sardinia, residents avoid intense morning workouts and instead integrate exercise into their daily lives. Perhaps you could opt for a bike ride to the grocery store instead of driving, or catch up with a friend during a walk instead of over drinks.

Enjoy a glass of wine with dinner like many Blue Zone residents do. While research on the effects of moderate drinking on longevity is inconclusive, a 2017 study of over 300,000 participants found that light to moderate drinking reduced the risk of death.

After retiring, you'll need to plan your leisure time more carefully. Perhaps you'll seek part-time employment or engage in a new hobby. Whatever you choose, it should motivate you to start each day with enthusiasm.

16. Consume more blueberries for improved cell health, enhanced eye vision, quicker muscle recovery, lower cholesterol levels, and reduced inflammation, as advised by longevity researcher Neil Paulvin. "Blueberries are a daily food I consume to promote longevity," he states.

Establish financial limits with elderly parents. Specify a monetary amount or time frame beyond which you cannot offer further support. Although this may seem harsh, over 55% of American children offer financial assistance to their elderly parents. It is crucial to prioritize your family without jeopardizing your own retirement savings, advises certified financial planner Danielle Miura.

Consistently adhering to a regular sleep schedule can enhance cognitive function and strengthen the immune system, studies indicate.

Consider purchasing long-term care insurance to transfer the risk of paying for services like in-home care from yourself to the insurance company, as advised by CFP Mark La Spisa.

In Okinawa, Japan, many elderly people practice "raijo taiso," or "radio exercises," a low-impact, guided exercise routine that can rejuvenate the body and mind. Even those in nursing homes dedicate at least five minutes every day to it, with some doing the exercises from their wheelchairs, according to Héctor García and Francesc Miralles, authors of "Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life."

Incorporating seafood into your diet at least twice a week and increasing your intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, lentils, and whole grains can lower the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

22. Choose a location that supports your aging needs. Ensure your home and city are accessible for your mobility. If you can't drive, avoid living in a place where the doctor is far away. If you have joint pain, a three-story home may not be suitable.

23. Avoid impulsive investing. "Charlie Munger and I missed a lot of things...we never worried about missing something that we didn't understand," Warren Buffett said at his company's annual meeting. There are many fad stocks that may seem tempting to buy, but if you haven't done your research, it's best not to invest.

A sisterhood circle, according to psychologist Thema Bryant, is a crucial element in maintaining happiness. This group of women meets monthly for two hours, during which they first informally connect and meet before each sharing something inspirational in the second hour.

Dietitian Jinan Banna avoids soda as it has no nutritional value and only provides empty calories.

By becoming a member of AARP, you can enjoy discounts at various chain restaurants, movie theaters, and flights at any age, and the advantages will only grow as you age.

Invite a friend to hang out tonight to boost your happiness today.

Almost 80% of Americans who have at least 20 years of future participation in a defined-contribution plan will have enough money to sustain their expenses in retirement, according to Morningstar data.

Investing in relationships within the community can provide a safety net for eldercare. Joining a volunteer group or helping out at a recreation center can help you make connections with people who care about your wellbeing.

"Don't wait to reflect on regrets; take action today," advises psychologist Michael Gervais. "Start fresh and make changes now." If you wish you spent more time with your child, plan activities for this week. If you believe there's a better job opportunity, apply today.

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