Long and Happy LifeLife can be a challenge, yet we try to make the best of it. Trying to be happy is one thing. But what about living a long life because of that. Who doesn’t want a long and happy life? Are you living your life to the fullest? Here are 15 amazing signs that you are living a long and happy life!

1. You exercise

Regular exercise is good to keep up your health. Running and other exercises can improve your life span and your health. What exercise you do depends on your age and other personal factors.

2. You get plenty of rest

Surely we all like to sleep. Studies show that sleep is important for good health. For adults it is encouraged to sleep about 8 hours a night.

3. You eat healthy

Food is important for a good life. What you eat, influences the way your body looks on the outside and feels on the inside. Some foods are proven to help you live a happy and long life.

4. You eat in moderation

Overeating is a big problem for many people. Portion sizes have gotten bigger and people eat until all the food is finished. Eating too much is bad for your body and has been linked to obesity. If you eat until you feel reasonably full, your body will thank you. And if you like to drink, also do it in moderation to have a long life.

5. You manage stress well

Life is busy and stress is not avoidable. Low self-esteem can cause stress and it can make you more vulnerable for disease. Having a clear list or schedule can help you oversee things and manage stress. Less stress, happier you.

6. You take time to relax

Rest and relaxation can make you feel calm and happy. You can take a nap, read a book, take a bath, or meditate. Meditating helps with anxiety, depression, pain and stress. Feeling calm lengthens your life and happiness.

7. You laugh

Laughing is an expression of happiness, but it also has a lot of health benefits. It can help prevent depression, heart disease and releases endorphins which makes you deal with pain better. Also, laughter can help you heal quicker, or help medicine work better. Laughter has short and long term benefits, like stress relief. So if you laugh a lot, it will help you live longer, and of course, happier.

8. You have close relationships

Having a happy marriage can help you live longer and healthier. Having sex with your partner can also add years to your life, according to this study. If you are not married, being part of a social group can help you recover quicker. Any kind of close relationship can help you live a long and healthy life.

9. You have a good attitude

It may not seem important, but being positive in your daily life is essential to live a long life. Studies show that feelings such asgratitude and forgiveness can make you live longer and happier. Also, if you get older, having a positive attitude can add up to 7 years!

10. You take care of your personal hygiene

There are many ways to take care of yourself. Simply washing your hands, brushing and flossing your teeth, and taking a shower regularly. By doing so, you reduce the risk of spreading diseases.

11. You have children

When you have kids, you usually would think you get old quicker. The opposite is true! Studies have shown that people with children live longer. And the more children, the more years are added!

12. You help others

Being selfless by helping out people who need it, is a great way to live a long and happy life. Volunteering is shown to be a great way to live longer.

13. You have a reason to wake up every day

People who wake up motivated, knowing why they are alive, are more likely to live long. Having a purpose in life contributes to a long, happy life.

14. You drink tea and/or coffee

Tea and coffee are, after water, the most consumed drinks in the United States. They are a source of caffeine and antioxidants. A study has found that moderate consumption of these drinks can lengthen your life. Especially green tea is shown to be great for your health.

15. You own a dog

In a study about pet owning and longevity, Dr. Thomas Lee stated that ‘people with dogs have better health’. Dogs make sure you exercise more, because you need to walk them every day. Also, dogs can reduce stress and loneliness.