To Maintain a Youthful Appearance and Feeling for an Extended Period, Incorporate these 10 Southeast Asian Lifestyle Practices
In the vibrant and culturally rich region of Southeast Asia, a unique approach to living can be found that promotes longevity and vitality. By adopting these practices, one might find themselves looking and feeling young for longer. Here are the top 10 Southeast Asia lifestyle habits that contribute to a youthful outlook:
- Eat until you’re 80% full — Embracing the Japanese concept of hara-hachi-bu and practicing moderation in meal portions is a common practice in Southeast Asia. This helps avoid overeating and promotes longevity.
- Sweat daily — Utilizing the tropical heat or engaging in physical activities, daily sweating is appreciated in Kota Kinabalu as a built-in detox and a way to promote health.
- Make mornings sacred — Starting the day with slow, mindful activities such as tai chi or moments of stillness without distractions can boost mood and memory. This practice is cherished in Gaya Island.
- Remove your shoes indoors — Taking off one's shoes and focusing on slow, deep breathing is a common practice in homes, temples, and some cafes throughout Southeast Asia. It is believed to help reduce tension and create calming rituals.
- Avoid processed foods and high sugar intake — Prioritizing fresh fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants is key to preventing skin aging and reducing harmful compounds.
- Stay physically active — Regular exercise, such as walking, cycling, or dancing, for at least 30 minutes each day enhances circulation, immunity, and metabolism. Elderly individuals in parts of Southeast Asia are often seen walking rather than using elevators.
- Protect skin from sun damage — Consistent use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats is essential for maintaining youthful skin and reducing cancer risk.
- Avoid prolonged sitting — Frequent breaks and light exercises or stretches help maintain metabolism and reduce inflammation.
- Prioritize quality sleep — Aiming for 7–8 hours of restorative rest helps reduce stress, support immune function, and skin repair.
- Maintain social connections and cultural wellness practices — Communal meals and traditional exercises support emotional well-being and healthy aging.
These habits collectively promote longevity by balancing nutrition, physical activity, mental well-being, and skin care, as observed in Southeast Asian cultural and lifestyle patterns.
Other notable practices include eating with hands, which can lead to a more mindful and intentional lifestyle, and the tropical heat in Southeast Asia, which encourages walking and allows the body to regulate itself.
Dr. Michael Hunter, author of the ebook Extending Life and Healthspan, has degrees from Harvard, Yale, and the University of Pennsylvania, and his research supports the benefits of these Southeast Asian lifestyle habits.
- Dr. Michael Hunter's research, as presented in his ebook Extending Life and Healthspan, supports the benefits of the Southeast Asian practice of eating until you're 80% full, making personal wellness and longevity a key focus.
- Stories from Southeast Asia show that removing shoes indoors and practicing slow, deep breathing is a daily ritual that helps promote mental well-being and reduce tension, contributing to a cultural wellness practice of healthy aging.
- Science backs up the Southeast Asian habit of maintaining social connections and communal meals, as these practices support emotional well-being, a crucial component of overall health and wellness.
- In the field of psychology, the importance of prioritizing quality sleep for reducing stress and supporting immune function, as demonstrated in the practices of Southeast Asia, holds significant significance for longevity and vitality.
