Dr. Shigeaki Hinohara lived to 105. Dr. Hinohara, pictured above right, with Emperor Akihito in 2006, helped make Japan the world leader in longevity. The celebrated physician and author shared his secrets in an interview with Japan Times journalist Judit Kawaguchi. The oldest Japanese educator and clinician was born in 1911. He was the author of 150 books including the best-seller “Living Long, Living Good” and founder of the “New Elderly Movement”. Here is his advice.
1. Take the stairs and always carry your own stuff
2. Do not believe everything your doctor recommends or says
3. Share what you know
Even when he was over 100, Dr. Hinohara gave 150 lectures a year in schools, business communities etc. He often shared lessons on war and peace.
4.You do not have to retire
If you love the work you do, you do not have to retire.
5.Plan ahead
If you want to enjoy your life better, you have to have busy schedule fill with different appointments, lectures, work, etc.
6. Don’t be overweight
Dr. Hinohara consumed a tablespoon of olive oil, orange juice and coffee for breakfast, cookies and milk for lunch and rice, fish and veggies for dinner. He consumed 100g of lean meat twice a week.
7. Energy does not come from sleeping a lot or eating well, it comes from feeling good
You will be more happy and energetic if you eliminate strict time-regulated rules, be like children – have a lots of fun until you feel sleepy or hungry.
8. It is wonderful to live long
Into his second century, he continued to serve society, volunteer, and work 18 hours a day, seven days a week. And he enjoyed every moment.
9. Find a role model
The doctor usually asked himself what his father would do when he faced with an issue.
10. Do not worry too much, life is unpredictable and full of incidents
The doctor was hijacked by the communist Red Army when he has 59 years old. He spent 4 days under 40 degree heat and handcuffed to his seat. He is also amazed how his body slowed down to adapt to deprivation.
11. Science alone can not help or cure people
The doctor believes that every illness can be cured with liberal and visual arts. He also believes in the uniqueness of every single individual.
12. Do not be crazy for money
The doctor is more than aware that he can not take anything when he goes!
13. Pain is mysterious
You have to do something fun if you want to forget about pain. The doctor found that music and animals can really help you to get rid of and mange your pain.
14. Be inspired
You must find inspiration in the world in order to motivate yourself.
