#1: Keep laughing. Humor zaps stress. People who seek out humor are less stressed or anxious. According to research those who have the ability to see the humor in life tend to be more secure and confident in all situations, therefore reducing stress.

#2: Find your purpose and live it. Research has found that people who are passionate about what they do in life, whether it is work, arts and crafts, sightseeing trips, volunteering, reading, writing or whatever you love to do, helps you live longer. When you have a passion for what you are doing, you reduce depression and stress, therefore increasing longevity.

#3: Listen to soothing music. Music has a special ability to calm people. Decades of research has shown that listening to music can lower blood pressure and heart rate. A new study out of Pennsylvania also found that playing music can reduce stress and depression. Singing is also a wonderful form of music that can lift your spirits and is an excellent form of deep breathing. How to live longer? Take up a musical instrument of choice, it is never to late to learn!

#4: Exercise every single day. Multiple studies have shown that regular cardiovascular exercise can have a positive affect on the heart, the brain, the hormonal and immune system of the body. Regular exercise significantly reduces stress and anxiety, thereby producing longevity.

#5: Get regular bodywork. What is bodywork you may ask? It is any type of alternative complementive therapy that helps your body energy system stay in balance. Some examples of bodywork care would be Chiropractic Care, Acupuncture, Acupressure, Massage, Hydrotherapy, Reflexology, Craniosacral Therapy, Qigong, Energy Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Meditation, and Prayer to name a few bodywork options.

#6: Eat healthfully. Maintaining a healthy body weight through proper food choices can insure a much greater outcome for longevity. Proper nutrition does make a difference, and yes, you are tomorrow what you eat today. Make healthy food choices at each meal and eat moderately.

©2005 Cathy L. Jamieson, Ph.D. is a Registered Hypnotherapist, with a degree in Nutrition and Fitness and is a Certified Yoga and Meditation Instructor. Cathy provides Wellness Coaching Programs, which of course includes many stress reduction therapies, which helps longevity.