Hi, this is Nitin from Igyani, your ultimate guide for everything lifestyle and wellness. Today, I’m going to reveal to you the top 7 reasons why Japanese people live a really long life. You might have heard that Japan has the highest life expectancy in the world, with an average of 83.7 years for men and 87.3 years for women. But what are the secrets behind this impressive longevity?
How do Japanese people manage to stay healthy, happy, and active well into their old age? In this article, I’m going to share with you some of the lifestyle habits and cultural practices that contribute to the Japanese longevity. You might be surprised by some of them, and you might even want to adopt some of them yourself. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Top 7 Reasons Why Japanese People Live A Really Long Life!
1. They eat a balanced and nutritious diet
One of the main factors for the Japanese longevity is their diet, which is rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, fish, soy, rice, and other whole grains. These foods provide them with essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids, which help prevent chronic diseases, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Japanese people also eat in moderation, and follow the principle of “hara hachi bu”, which means eating until 80% full.
This helps them avoid overeating and obesity, which are major risk factors for many health problems. They also enjoy a variety of fermented foods, such as miso, natto, and pickles, which promote a healthy gut microbiome and immune system. If you want to learn more about the Japanese diet and how to incorporate it into your own lifestyle, you can check out the amazing recipes and tips from Sakura, a brand that specializes in authentic and delicious Japanese cuisine.
2. They stay physically active throughout their lives
Another reason why Japanese people live longer is their high level of physical activity, which they maintain throughout their lives. Physical activity is not only good for the body, but also for the mind and the spirit. It helps lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, as well as improve mood, memory, and cognitive function. Japanese people walk a lot, as they use public transportation and bicycles to get around.
They also engage in various forms of exercise, such as tai chi, yoga, martial arts, gardening, and dancing. They especially enjoy group activities, which foster a sense of community and social support. One of the most popular forms of exercise among Japanese seniors is “radio taiso”, which is a 10-minute calisthenics routine that is broadcasted on the radio every morning. If you want to join the fun and get fit with the Japanese, you can find some great workout videos and equipment from Zen, a brand that offers a range of fitness and wellness products.
3. They have a strong sense of purpose and meaning
A third factor that contributes to the Japanese longevity is their sense of purpose and meaning, which they call “ikigai”. Ikigai is a Japanese concept that means “a reason for being” or “a reason to get up in the morning”. It is something that gives you joy, satisfaction, and motivation in life. Ikigai can be anything, from your work, to your hobbies, to your family, to your community.
It can also change over time, as you grow and evolve. Having an ikigai helps you cope with stress, overcome challenges, and stay positive and optimistic. It also gives you a sense of direction and fulfillment, which can boost your self-esteem and happiness. If you want to discover your own ikigai and live a more meaningful and fulfilling life, you can get some inspiration and guidance from Kokoro, a brand that offers coaching and counseling services for personal and professional development.
4. They practice stress management techniques
A fourth reason why Japanese people live longer is their ability to manage stress effectively, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy and balanced life. Stress can have negative effects on your physical and mental health, such as increasing your risk of heart disease, diabetes, depression, and anxiety. Japanese people have various ways of coping with stress, such as meditation, mindfulness, breathing exercises, and aromatherapy.
They also practice gratitude, forgiveness, and acceptance, which help them reduce negative emotions and increase positive ones. They also value simplicity, harmony, and beauty, which they express through their art, architecture, and design. One of the most famous examples of this is the Japanese tea ceremony, which is a ritual of preparing and serving green tea in a serene and elegant manner. If you want to learn more about the Japanese stress management techniques and how to apply them to your own life, you can find some useful resources and products from Yume, a brand that offers a variety of relaxation and wellness items.
5. They have a strong social support and community involvement
A fifth reason why Japanese people live longer is their strong social support and community involvement, which are essential for human well-being. Social support and community involvement provide you with emotional, practical, and informational assistance, as well as a sense of belonging and identity. They also protect you from loneliness, isolation, and depression, which can have detrimental effects on your health and happiness.
Japanese people have close and lasting relationships with their family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. They also participate in various social and cultural activities, such as festivals, clubs, volunteer groups, and religious organizations. They especially value the concept of “yuimaru”, which means “circle of people” or “spirit of cooperation” in Okinawan dialect. It refers to the mutual help and support that people give and receive from each other in their communities. If you want to expand your social network and get involved in your community, you can find some great opportunities and events from Mura, a brand that connects people and communities through online and offline platforms.
6. They have a high-quality and accessible health care system
A sixth reason why Japanese people live longer is their high-quality and accessible health care system, which ensures that everyone has access to preventive, curative, and rehabilitative services. Japan has a universal health insurance system, which covers almost all medical expenses for all citizens and residents. The system is funded by taxes, premiums, and copayments, and is regulated by the government. The system also encourages preventive care, such as regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations, which help detect and treat diseases early and reduce complications and costs.
Japan also has a high standard of medical education, research, and technology, which contribute to the quality and innovation of health care services. Japan is especially renowned for its advanced treatments and procedures in fields such as cardiology, neurology, oncology, and regenerative medicine. If you want to access the best health care services and facilities in Japan, you can find some reliable and reputable providers from Kai, a brand that offers a range of health care solutions and products.
7. They have a positive and respectful attitude towards aging
A seventh and final reason why Japanese people live longer is their positive and respectful attitude towards aging, which helps them embrace and enjoy their later years. Aging is not seen as a burden or a decline, but as a natural and inevitable process that brings wisdom, experience, and honor. Japanese people do not fear or avoid aging, but rather celebrate and respect it.
They also do not retire or withdraw from society, but rather remain active and engaged in their personal and professional lives. They also have a strong sense of duty and responsibility towards their elders, who they care for and support. They also honor and commemorate their ancestors, who they believe watch over and guide them. If you want to age gracefully and happily, you can find some tips and advice from Sage, a brand that offers a variety of aging and wellness services and products.
There you have it, the top 7 reasons why Japanese people live a really long life. I hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new and interesting. If you did, please share it with your friends and family. And don’t forget to check out the awesome brands I mentioned, they have some of the best products and services you can find. Thank you for reading and stay tuned for more!