Since I was a teenager, I have always been interested in longevity by learning about centenarian’s secrets to long life.
In this article, I’ll review the secrets of five inspiring centenarians – Tao Porchon-Lynch, Dr Gladys McCarey, Johanna Quaas, Sawang Janpram, and Dr John Scharffenberg.
Tao Porchon-Lynch
Tao Porchon-Lynch was a yoga teacher who practised and taught yoga five to six times weekly. She attributed her main secret to longevity to yoga.
Beyond yoga and staying active, she followed a healthy diet and always had a positive attitude.
She did enjoy an occasional glass of red wine.
Her favourite quote was, ‘There is nothing you cannot do if you harness the power within you,’ which summarises her belief in the limitless potential of the human spirit.
For example, at the age of 87, she became a ballroom dancer and won over 700 First Place Awards with dance partners who were 70 years younger than her.
Tao Porchon-Lynch’s passing at the age of 101 marked the end of a remarkable journey characterised by passion, purpose, and unwavering dedication to a life well-lived.
Dr Gladys McCarey
Dr Gladys McGarey is a pioneer in holistic medicine, meaning she focuses on treating the whole person – mind, body, and spirit.
She emphasises a balanced lifestyle for longevity, including a healthy diet, exercise, stress management, strong relationships, and spiritual connection.
She also believes in natural remedies and alternative therapies alongside traditional medicine.
At 103 years old, she is a living example of her philosophy.
She wrote a book, “The Well-Lived Life: A 102-Year-Old Doctor’s Six Secrets to Health and Happiness at Every Age,” highlighting her belief that it’s never too late to adopt healthy habits.
Johanna Quaas
Johanna Quaas is the world’s oldest gymnast, believes that staying physically active and mentally engaged is vital to longevity.
She emphasises the importance of regular exercise, flexibility, and maintaining a positive attitude.
Quaas also advocates for lifelong learning and curiosity about the world around you.
Additionally, she emphasises the importance of a healthy diet and staying socially connected with friends and family.
Sawang Janpram
Sawang Janpram, also known as the ‘Dragon Man,’ is one of the oldest athletes who broke 100m record. He is currently 103.
He attributes his longevity to a simple lifestyle focused on natural foods, regular exercise, and a positive attitude.
He emphasises consuming locally sourced organic fruits and vegetables and plenty of water. Regular physical activity, including walking and martial arts, was also integral to his routine.
He also advocates maintaining mental and emotional balance through meditation and time in nature.
Dr John Scharffenberg
A 100-year-old doctor, Dr. John Scharffenberger, shares his dietary wisdom for a long and healthy life.
He emphasises a balanced approach, prioritising whole, unprocessed foods over sugary snacks.
Salads are a regular feature in his recommended diet, and he also suggests following a time-restricted eating plan, which involves limiting your daily eating window and fasting for the remaining hours.
Interestingly, Dr John Scharffenberg is the founder of Scharffen Berger Chocolate Maker, and his background suggests he may have appreciated the quality and moderation of his diet. Perhaps he enjoyed the benefits of dark chocolate, known for its antioxidants, in controlled portions.
His entrepreneurial success likely involved maintaining a healthy work-life balance, another crucial factor for overall well-being and longevity. While specific ‘secrets’ to his longevity remain unknown, dietary philosophy and lifestyle habits offer valuable insights for those seeking to live a long and healthy life.
Research supports the finding and suggests that adopting healthy habits can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases and increase overall lifespan.
Such habits as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy body weight, not smoking, drinking alcohol in moderation, getting enough sleep, staying socially connected, and managing stress effectively can add to up to 25 years of one person’s life.
These habits can be incorporated into daily life, emphasising their significant impact on health and lifespan.