Move continually, even when you’re not exercising. “When we move, our bodies and brains both work better. We think faster, process information more accurately, and remember more.”
2. Create routines.
"Committing the more mundane parts of our life to habit and routine frees up RAM for the things that matter to us."
3. Be opportunistic.
"Spend your precious energy wisely." Conserve energy when you can, but when you need to go for it, go for it.
4. Be a Mensch.
“Doing good doesn’t just feel good, it works. It’s healthy for the tribe and healthy for us.”
5. Believe in something.
“Belief is a trait of temperament.” People who embrace life’s puzzles as opportunities for problem-solving because of larger beliefs tend to thrive.
6. Lighten up.
“Managing stress is staggeringly important in terms of flipping genetic switches.”
7. Cultivate a sense of progress.
According to studies of life satisfaction and human motivation, we all need to feel like we’re improving. Identify your expectations, adjust them to allow for “small wins,” then improve upon them.
8. Don't do it if you don't love it.
"If it's not fun, don't do it. That's easy - because you won't if it isn't. People can't be guilted into lasting healthy behavior change, Should doesn't work."
9. Being now.
“Not only is midlife not too late to embark on this, providing we rev back up slowly, in some ways, it’s the best time for it. We’re rested, we’re restless, we’re ready.”
What other rules would you add to the list?
Who are your models for healthy living?
Answer these questions in the comments section below.
"What Makes Olga Run?: The Mystery of the 90-Something Track Star and What She Can Teach Us About Living Longer, Happier Lives" - by Bruce Grierson
New York Times article about Bruce Grierson and Olga Kotelko
U-Turn: What If You Woke Up One Morning and Realized You Were Living the Wrong Life? - by Bruce Grierson