Why DO the Japanese Have the Longest Lifespan? Part 2: Live

Why do the Japanese have the longest lifespan? Last month
you learned to eat the things Japanese people eat, and now
you will learn how to live like they live. Fast, long, and
lively best describes a usual day in Japan. The country is
geared towards an active lifestyle, as the <"couch potato
concept is completely foreign. This lively lifestyle centers
around three key aspects: work, socializing and recreation.

The workday begins early due to the commute by train that
most people endure. This can range from 20 minutes to over
two hours with the majority of people standing, as there are
not enough seats. Walking is the focal point in the daily
exercise regime. On average, people walk one to two
kilometers to the train station in the morning. After
arriving at the closest station to their office, people
typically walk another one to two kilometers to their place
of business. At the end of their long day, workers go
through the same routine. All in all, the average Japanese
individual will walk between three to five kilometers per
day. Interestingly enough, these walks generally occur
immediately or soon after meals, which helps with the
digestive process.

Socializing is also different than that for western culture.
As homes and apartments in Japan are considerably smaller,
people opt to entertain outside of their home. This is one
of the primary reasons clubs; hobbies and leisure activities
play such an important role in the culture. In fact it is
very uncommon to have dinner parties or get-togethers in
Japanese homes. A popular alternative is to meet at public
establishments for events and parties.

Automobiles do have some purpose, however they are viewed as
a hobby or a luxury. Parking in Japan is costly and limited
with simply not enough parking spaces for everyone to park.
Cars are used for longer excursions to other cities or the
countryside. The most common recreational activities are
active ones. Trips to the mountains, lakes or open spaces
are most popular.

Although the pace of life is fast in Japan, we can learn
from certain aspects. Changing our eating habits is an
important first step and combining low impact exercise after
eating, such as walking, will have a greater impact.
Involvement in clubs or activities that are active will also
create an opportunity to engage in activity. Finally, being
less reliant on our vehicles will require more effort for
some daily physical activity.

So perhaps if you do what they do and eat what they eat you
could be extending your lifespan. Your life is what you make it.

Here s to your health!

***

Peter McGarry

info@magneticrevolution.com
For additional free information on health issues regarding
fitness, nutrition, environment and financial well being
please visit http://www.magneticrevolution.com. This site
is a guide to improving your quality of life.