Japanese people are well-known for living past 100 years. Even if they barely exercise and eat lots of carbs they stay fit and don’t get much fat.
But, how do they do it? Well, in this story we are going to unfold the reasons behind it. So, let’s start!
“Hara Hachi Bu” concept: It’s a 2500-year-old Confucian teaching that tells you to stop eating when you are 80% full. It’s not just about controlling portion intake but also focuses on mindful eating and listening to your body.
Fermented foods: Traditional Japanese foods such as miso, pickled vegetables, natto, etc., are not just delicious treats but also the powerhouse of prebiotics. They boost your immune system and improve digestion, while also helping fight depression.
Green tea: The average Japanese individual drinks 5 cups of green tea per day which is rich in antioxidants and has numerous health benefits, including boosting metabolism, reducing inflammation, and protecting against cancer.
Ikigai: Translating to "reason for being", this Japanese term forms the root of a Japanese person’s life. It means finding what truly matters to you and living a purposeful life filled with joy.
Incidental exercise: Japanese cities are built focusing on providing more space for walking and cycling enabling people to walk about 7 km a day. This consistent and low-impact movement keeps the metabolism high.
Social connections: With a strong culture that is deeply rooted in community and family ties, Japanese people do regular social interactions that help reduce stress, promote longevity, and improve immune function.
Overall, the secret to Japanese healthy and long life is not about intense exercises or strict diets but about mindfulness, balance, and community.