Simple Daily Activities That Can Add 11 Years to Your Life
Research highlights 8 easy everyday tasks, from climbing stairs to vacuuming, that boost health, reduce disease risk, and promote longevity.
Watan-A recent study revealed that simple daily movements, such as climbing stairs or vacuuming the house, act like a “longevity injection,” potentially adding up to 11 years to our lifespan.
This study is not the first to show that staying active is a key factor in extending life expectancy and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other conditions.
The British newspaper The Telegraph quoted physiotherapist Clara Kervin and fitness trainer Hannah Verdier, who identified 8 simple daily activities that can enhance health and prolong life:
1. Climbing Stairs
Kervin explains:
“When you climb stairs, you strengthen the muscles of your thighs, glutes, calves, and improve hip mobility. Research also shows that frequent stair climbing is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks, heart failure, and strokes, as well as a 24% lower risk of premature death from any cause.”
2. Gardening
Verdier notes:
“Gardening is an excellent way to exercise, involving activities like pushing a lawnmower, pulling weeds, and squatting – all of which constitute a strong workout that increases heart rate.”
3. Shopping and Carrying Groceries
Kervin advises:
“Go to the store yourself, without a car, and carry your groceries home instead of ordering online. Walking to the store provides simple exercise that strengthens the muscles and bones in your arms, shoulders, and legs.”
4. Running to Catch the Bus
A survey found that nearly half of women and 40% of men admitted they felt unfit and out of breath when running to catch a bus.
Verdier emphasizes the importance of this activity, noting that just 30 seconds of running can improve overall cardiorespiratory fitness, blood pressure, and insulin sensitivity.
5. Kitchen Chores and Cleaning
Kervin states:
“When cooking and washing dishes, you use and strengthen various muscles, particularly in your shoulders, chest, upper back, and core. These movements also improve flexibility, and if performed energetically, can increase your heart rate and boost blood circulation.”
6. Hanging Laundry
Verdier highlights:
“Hanging up freshly washed clothes engages your muscles. Picking up laundry from the basket and hanging it involves your core muscles, including the abs and pelvic floor.”
Kervin adds:
“Each time you bend to pick something up, you engage your legs, back, and arms, making hanging laundry a full-body workout.”
7. Vacuuming and Mopping
Vacuuming or mopping is highly beneficial, according to Kervin. These activities require forward, backward, upward, and downward movements, enhancing body flexibility, circulation, and burning calories.
8. Standing Up and Sitting Down
Kervin explains:
“Simple sit-to-stand movements engage a wide range of muscles, including the ankles, thighs, core, hips, and glutes. They also improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls as you age.”
By incorporating these simple tasks into daily routines, you can significantly boost your health and longevity while staying active in everyday life.
