102-year-old shares 3 daily practices for happy, healthy life

At the remarkable age of 102, Deborah Szekely continues to lead an active and fulfilling life, defying the expectations of her age. Despite her century-long journey, she maintains a bustling schedule, regularly engaging in social activities, attending conferences, and even working at the fitness resort and spa she co-founded over eight decades ago.

Reflecting on her longevity, Szekely emphasizes the importance of three daily practices that contribute to her happiness and well-being.

Firstly, she stresses the significance of regular physical activity. Szekely makes it a point to walk at least a mile each day, considering it an essential part of her routine akin to waking up in the morning. She highlights the value of finding active companions, such as her friend, a Catholic nun, with whom she enjoys leisurely walks. While her exercise regimen may have evolved over the years, Szekely emphasizes the effectiveness of consistent, low-intensity movement, drawing inspiration from the lifestyle habits of the world’s longest-living individuals.

Secondly, Szekely attributes much of her vitality to her dietary choices. Since childhood, she has followed a pescatarian diet, primarily consisting of plant-based foods supplemented with fish. Her meals align closely with the Mediterranean diet, emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Szekely’s culinary preferences reflect her upbringing and her early experiences managing a farm and cooking at her fitness resort, where she prioritized fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Lastly, Szekely underscores the importance of social engagement and lifelong learning. Despite her age, her social calendar remains vibrant, filled with theater outings, opera nights, and gatherings with friends and guests. She emphasizes the joy of continuous learning, maintaining fluency in multiple languages and immersing herself in diverse cultures. Szekely’s dedication to expanding her horizons aligns with research suggesting that ongoing learning contributes to longevity and cognitive well-being.

In essence, Szekely’s daily practices offer valuable insights into cultivating a fulfilling and enduring life. Through prioritizing movement, nourishing her body with wholesome foods, and embracing social connections and intellectual stimulation, she exemplifies the timeless pursuit of holistic well-being and lifelong vitality.

Re-reported from the article originally published in CNBC.