Want to live a long life? Here are 6 habits that longevity experts do not give up
You don't have to wait for the next scientific breakthrough to influence the aging process. From quality sleep and movement to social connections, self-love, and a sense of mission — six experts share the one habit that they believe can make the difference.
The possibility of living a long and healthy life has become one of the most intriguing topics in the world in recent years. Millions of dollars are invested in research for the modern fountain of youth — ways to slow down the aging process, maintain mental sharpness, and strengthen the body. But more and more experts agree: longevity is not just about the number of years we add to life, but the quality of life we create within those years. Chronological age is only part of the story; our lifestyle, nutrition, movement, relationships, and sense of purpose all influence how our body and mind age.
On the occasion of the Longevity and Keto Festival organized by 'Shevteva', where 18 experts will gather, we asked six of them to share one tip that they believe can influence the way we age.
Prof. Rafi Carasso: Love yourself
Sometimes the basis for health starts in the simplest place — our relationship with ourselves. According to Prof. Rafi Carasso, one of the most important keys to a healthy and long life is to truly take care of ourselves: love yourself, sleep enough, eat healthy, and move as much as possible. These basic habits remain the most significant tools we have for maintaining the body over the years.
Dr. Michael Herling: Youth is speed
The tip from Dr. Michael Herling, a family medicine specialist, might surprise you; it doesn't start with a new supplement or a special diet. 'Youth is speed,' he says, referring to training the body and mind to react quickly: for example, skipping, a short sprint uphill, or dropping into a squat and jumping up quickly. His message is simple: our body needs challenges to remain vital.
Ron Yaffe: Human connection is the key
In our body, there is a powerful mechanism activated through human connection. According to Ron Yaffe, a naturopath and chairman of the Naturopaths Association in Israel, a touch, a good conversation, or a hug with a close person can encourage a sense of security and reduce stress. 'Dedicate time every day to creating a genuine and safe connection with your environment,' he says, to allow the body to activate its renewal mechanisms.
Dr. Michael Abulafia: We came to repair
In the eyes of psychiatrist Dr. Abulafia, we must see life as a continuation of a mission — to repair, empower, and create new light from the roots we received. 'Everything that was in previous generations is just the beginning of something huge that needs to appear through us,' she says. 'We came to repair, empower, and create a new creation. There are wonderful tools in therapy to continue a new light of revival by knowing what to repair and how to repair.'
Dr. Yehiel Harari: Purpose is everything
We all know that good nutrition and movement are critical for health. But according to author and lecturer Dr. Yehiel Harari, there is an even deeper component: a sense of meaning. A person who knows they have value, that they influence reality, and that they are needed — they move from their place, learn, develop, and grow. Finding a purpose is not a one-time moment but a daily work of searching for where we can contribute.
Avraham Mor Katzav: Sleep is the foundation
One of the simplest and most powerful tools for long-term health is found precisely when we do nothing — sleep. According to naturopath Avraham Mor Katzav, quality sleep is a basic physiological need for longevity and the prevention of chronic diseases. 'From our experience with thousands of patients, the vast majority do not sleep enough,' he says, 'even when they are sure they do.' It is worth starting from the basics — giving the body the recovery time it needs every night.
The Longevity and Keto Festival by 'Shevteva' will be held from September 3 to 5 at the Oasis Spa Club Hotel at the Dead Sea. Alongside lectures by experts, you will find content areas, healthy dishes by chef Oded Talmor, and a space for renewal.
