by Lucy May

Created on: May 01, 2009   Last Updated: May 02, 2009

Over the last 200 years the life expectancy of the average human being has doubled and research has shown that in each passing year 3 months can be added to the worldwide estimation of 65 years for men and 70 for women.

Longevity can have a marked difference in where a person lives; Japan currently leads the way with their women living on average to 84 and men 77.

However it is a universally known trend that people are desperately seeking to find the elixir of life. The dream to stop the ageing process and find the ability to live forever has created countless industries who supply every potion, herb and pill. Unfortunately there are millions of women who subscribe to these dreams and spend thousands of dollars every year in their quest for immortality.

Science too plays a major role; it feels like it is every week that a new study emerges from the laboratory informing the public that a) Red wine is good for you or b) Keep the brain active. Can tests carried out on rodents really prove beneficial to a longer lifespan in humans?

Surveys were conducted with Centenarians whose advice and personal recommendations were as different and individual as they were. Their suggestions range from cold showers, yoga, keeping an active body and mind, alcohol to even one lady who cited no sex!

It would appear that apart from maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, frequent fresh air and exercise, one of the most important aspects to living a long life is to remain stress free. Stress is known as the silent killer and can tragically lead to a heart attack.

One observation in healthy living is the ability to remain calm in any situation. Everybody at some time has a major event in their lives, but some people are able to stay relaxed and take things in their stride. This stress free style of living keeps the working components of the body in excellent shape.

Take as an example: the Italians the longest living Europeans. They believe in going home for lunch followed by a short sleep. Their relaxed attitude to life is proof to their longevity. The Italians also love their wine and research has shown that a glass every day really can contribute to a person;s overall health.

Hermann Smith-Johannson, a 103 year old cross country skier, was quoted in "The New York Times" on March 20 1979:

"The secret to a long life is to stay busy, get plenty of exercise and don't drink too much. Then again, don't drink too little"

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