Your Body is a Temple: Treat it Well  

We all want to live until we are a hundred years old, right? No one likes to think of death and the concept of dying. Ok, I can see how this is becoming quite dreary... let’s move on to the happy stuff. This article will provide a few useful tips and advice about how to live a healthy and, hopefully, long life. Chances are you have already heard most of these tips, but it is good to revisit them and explain the reasons why they benefit you and your wellbeing.

1. Eat Well

Make sure your diet contains whole grains such as wheat, barley and other types of whole grains. Studies show that people who eat these types of whole grains can live longer lives because these foods have nutrients that assist in brain health, decrease chances of heart disease, diabetes and a few other illnesses. Try to eat large amounts of green leafy vegetables and fruit. Plant protein is especially important. A recent study shows that those who eat ten portions of fruit and vegetables a day have the greatest decrease in risk of diseases. Make sure you reduce your intake of saturated and trans fats. Only consume healthy oils such as avocado oil, olive oil and coconut oil. Lastly, nuts! Nuts are a great snack and can also reduce the rates of death from illness such as cancer, heart and respiratory diseases.

2. Enjoy Alcohol in Moderation

We all know the terrible effects of alcohol abuse. However, many don’t know that alcohol in small doses or in moderation is actually good for your health and wellbeing, specifically red wine. Red wine has a small amount of a type of antioxidant called resveratrol which provides protection against heart disease and reduces inflammation. The recommended amount is one to two glasses a day in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

3. Exercise, Exercise, Exercise

Not only does exercise help to reduce your risk of chronic diseases, it also helps to enhance your mood and keep your body fit and healthy. There is no better way to keep your mind and body fit. According to a recent study, one hour of running can add seven hours to your life. Other benefits of running include regulated blood pressure and increased lung capacity. Don't think that running is the only answer. Running together with strength training can be highly beneficial to your health.

4. Sleep More and Stress Less

Sleep deprivation can lead to an array of illnesses such as heart disease and depression, to name a few. The recommended amount is at least seven to eight hours of sleep; if you get any less, it will affect your immune system. The optimal amount of sleep will also increase your energy levels allowing you to live a happy life.

5. More Vitamin D and More Sunscreen

There is a very fine line between a good amount of vitamin D intake and excessive amount of sun. Vitamin D is very important for your well-being. All you need is 15-30 minutes of sun every day to help your immune system fight off diseases and to improve your bone health. Obviously, these days excessive sun exposure is very dangerous, which is why sunscreen has become vital. Sunscreen will protect you from the development of various skin cancers and will also keep your skin looking young and healthy.

6. Keep Your Brain Busy

Make sure you keep your brain active and busy at all times. Learning new things and increasing your knowledge is a great way to keep your brain going. Crosswords or sudoku are also things you can consider if you enjoy brain teasers. Remember: your body needs to exercise, but so does your brain. Keeping your brain busy will reduce the risk of Alzheimer's and dementia.

There you are. Adopt these six easy tips to live longer and to keep your body and mind healthy and happy!