We Are Designed to Live 120 Years!
What if we told you that your body is designed to live up to 120 years—not just surviving, but thriving with vitality, energy, and purpose? This isn’t a fantasy; it’s science. The key lies in how you "administer yourself" each day. By making intentional choices about what you eat, how you move, and how you care for your body, you can unlock the full potential of your longevity.
Dr. Vicente Mera, in his book To Live 120 Years: Defy Aging and Reclaim Your Vitality, highlights the importance of being mindful and proactive about your health. Inspired by his insights, here’s a practical guide based on the Key Pillars of Longevity to help you live a long, vibrant life.
The Key Pillars of Longevity
1. Nutrition: Eat with Purpose
Food is fuel, and what you eat directly impacts how you feel and age. Focus on eating intentionally, avoiding foods that irritate your digestive system or leave you sluggish. Here are some guidelines:
Put wisdom first: Adopt the wisdom of Hara Hachi Bu by eating until you're about 80% full, allowing your body to process food efficiently and avoid overeating. Pair this with the Messianic diet’s emphasis on whole, natural foods—like fruits, vegetables, grains, and clean proteins—to ensure each meal nourishes your body and honors its design for health and longevity.
Whole Foods First: Choose nutrient-dense, natural foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Skip processed and sugary foods that accelerate aging.
2. Exercise: Build Muscle, Burn Fat
Muscle is your secret weapon for a long life. It burns more calories than fat, even at rest, and keeps you active and strong as you age. Incorporate these practices:
Strength training to build and maintain muscle.
Cardio for heart health and endurance.
Flexibility exercises like yoga or stretching to keep your joints and body agile.
Consistent movement isn’t just about weight—it’s about maintaining a youthful, energetic body.
3. Sleep: Recharge Your Body and Mind
Quality sleep is non-negotiable for longevity. It’s when your body repairs itself and prepares for the day ahead. Prioritize these habits:
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
Create a calming bedtime routine.
Avoid screens and heavy meals before bed.
4. Stress Management: Find Your Balance
Chronic stress is a silent killer, accelerating aging and increasing inflammation. Manage stress through mindfulness and relaxation techniques:
Meditation or deep breathing to center your mind.
Physical activity to release tension.
Connecting with loved ones for emotional support.
5. Medical Interventions: Stay Ahead of the Game
Regular check-ups and personalized care can prevent issues before they become serious. Work with professionals to tailor your health strategy, including supplements and therapies as needed.
6. Social Connection and Purpose: Engage Your Spirit
Longevity isn’t just physical—it’s also emotional. Build strong relationships and find meaning in your life:
Spend quality time with loved ones.
Pursue passions and hobbies that keep your mind engaged.
Set goals that give your life direction and purpose.
Administer Yourself: Listen to Your Body
Your body is always talking to you—sending signals through discomfort, low energy, or digestive upset. Pay attention to these messages and adjust accordingly. Avoid foods that irritate your system and adopt habits that make you feel light, energized, and balanced.
Discipline: The Path to Joyful Longevity
Living to 120 years isn’t about deprivation—it’s about discipline. Eating wisely, exercising regularly, and caring for yourself create freedom: freedom from preventable illness, discomfort, and fatigue.
Dr. Mera and other longevity experts remind us that our bodies are extraordinary machines. When cared for properly, they can serve us well for decades beyond the norm. So, make intentional choices today. Eat with purpose, move with joy, rest with intention, and live each day like the masterpiece it’s meant to be.
Your journey to 120 years starts now. Let each step bring you closer to a life of vitality and fulfillment!