6 Simple Ways Texans Can Live Longer, From Research to Real Life

Over the weekend, my wife Donna and I started talking about something most of us eventually think about: how to live a longer, healthier life. That conversation started after watching a Netflix documentary by longevity expert Dan Buettner, famous for the "Blue Zones"  studies on regions where people live to 100.

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Honestly, I didn’t need a documentary to make me curious about long life. My wife’s grandmother passed away eight days before her 100th birthday, her grandfather died one day before turning 100, and my own grandmother lived to 102 years old.

One visit really stuck with me. Donna’s grandfather, well into his 90s, was on the roof fixing shingles. I yelled, “Grandpa, stay right there, I’ll come help you down!” He yelled back, “Stay away! I don’t want anybody getting hurt. I’ve got this!”

From that day on, I started paying attention to everything he did. Here are a few habits I noticed, along with tips experts say can help people live longer.

1. Stay Active

Don’t sit all day. Turn off the TV, step away from the computer, and move your body. Buettner says walking just 20 minutes a day can add years to your life.

2. Eat Real Food

Many long-living cultures eat beans, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. I enjoy fruit, vegetable, and bean soups packed with healthy ingredients. I still eat some eggs, chicken, and fish, but I try to avoid processed foods.

3. Get Real Rest

People in long-living communities usually keep consistent sleep habits and avoid electronics before bed. When your body says it needs rest, listen to it.

4. Let Go of Negativity

Stress and grudges wear a person down. Many elders I knew focused on peace, faith, and moving forward, rather than clinging to the past.

5. Stay Connected to Family

Research shows strong relationships help people live longer. Here in West Texas, we look out for each other, and that kind of community matters.

6. Keep Clean and Healthy

One simple habit that helps prevent illness: Wash your hands. Germs can make us sick, and clean hands are one of the easiest ways to protect our health.

The Real Secret to Longevity

Living longer isn’t about miracle pills. It’s about daily habits. And if you ask me, there’s one more thing that helps too.

7. Animals.

Whether it’s a dog, a cat, livestock, or even feeding birds outside your window, animals bring a little peace and joy into our lives. And if a man in his 90s can climb down a ladder like he’s still 25…

I figure we should all aim to live life with that kind of strength and purpose.

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