Ageless Energy: Simple Habits from Centenarians to Keep Your Body and Mind Young

5. Embrace a Sense of Purpose

A clear sense of purpose, or “why,” threads through many centenarian stories. Japanese elders call it “ikigai” (a reason to get up each day); Sardinian shepherds might name it as tradition, faith, or providing for loved ones. Whatever the form, purpose infuses each day with meaning, energizes routines, and helps weather life’s storms. Studies find that having a reason to rise—big or small—predicts mental agility and even longevity. Volunteering, nurturing grandchildren, tending a garden, or learning a new craft all count. The key: purpose doesn’t have to be grand or public; private joys—like feeding backyard birds, helping a neighbor, or growing tomatoes—are just as powerful. If you’re seeking more meaning, try naming a goal you’re excited for, however small, and see how it colors your energy.

6. Practice Positivity and Stress Reduction

A light heart is often the quiet superpower of those who reach 100. Centenarians develop small rituals that melt away stress: laughter with friends, singing with community, quiet reverence for faith, or keeping a gratitude journal. Science says people who laugh often and manage worries with optimism see lower levels of stress hormones—good news for heart and mind. Many make space daily for calm: a walk at sunset, a breath before meals, a pause to notice beauty. These rituals boost resilience and keep spirits buoyant, even during tough stretches. You don’t have to meditate for hours or write novels in gratitude journals; jotting down one thankful moment or sharing a chuckle each day adds sweetness and balance. Choose one ritual that feels gentle, and let it soften your day.