The Secret to Living to 100-According to Centenarians

**The Secret to Living to 100—According to Those Who’ve Done It**

What’s the real key to hitting triple digits? While science often points to diet, exercise, and genetics, centenarians themselves have a different take. Forget strict routines or kale smoothies—these long-lived individuals credit joy, social bonds, and a laid-back attitude as their “secret sauce.” Here’s what they swear by:

**1. “Do everything wrong”—and enjoy it.**
One 100-year-old woman laughs off conventional advice: “Don’t have diet Coke—have regular Coke! Don’t exercise. And most importantly, don’t worry.” She drinks coffee daily, eats ice cream “all the time,” and still enjoys alcohol[2][5]. Her philosophy? Life’s too short for stress or strict rules.

**2. Stay socially active.**
A 101-year-old emphasizes strong connections: “We used to go out a lot—theaters, dancing.” She reads two books daily and prioritizes laughter with friends[2][5]. Sardinia’s centenarians (some of the world’s longest-lived) also thrive in tight-knit communities where family and neighbors are central[1].

**3. Start mornings mindfully.**
Many centenarians begin their day with hydration (like warm lemon water) followed by meditation or prayer instead of rushing into tasks[3]. This quiet reflection helps them stay grounded even as they age.

**4. Move naturally—no gym required.**
While they avoid marathons or weightlifting, centenarians stay active through walking, gardening, or hobbies that keep them on their feet[3]. In Blue Zones like Sardinia, daily chores and outdoor activities replace formal workouts[1][3].

**5. Sleep like it matters (because it does).**
Over half of centenarians sleep eight hours nightly plus nap daily—linked to lower cholesterol and fewer age-related diseases[3]. Quality rest trumps late-night scrolling any day!

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So what really works? A mix of joy (“I love life!” says one 101-year-old), strong friendships (“we lead a nice social life”), and refusing to sweat the small stuff (“don’t worry”). As these experts-in-aging prove: living well isn’t about perfection—it’s about pleasure.[2][5]