Pets. The Atlantic cited studies showing that, “Dog owners worldwide enjoy longer lifespans on average, reduced blood pressure, improved cardiovascular fitness, and far less stress.” According to a study in 1992 of nearly 6,000 people, cats improve their owners’ health, too.
Sex. Many studies have reported that people who have more sex live longer. Now, new research shows that sex lowers blood pressure, improves cholesterol, and increases circulation. It raises levels of oxytocin, which reduces stress.
Sleep. The UK’s Daily Mail reports “After analysing data from 16 studies, involving more than 1.5 million participants, researchers found ‘unequivocal evidence’ of a direct link between sleeping less than six hours a night and dying prematurely.”
Do what you can to get eight hours of sleep a night. Don’t watch TV or do things that wind you up right before sleeping. Take time to wind down. Read about other pleasant ways to fall asleep and stay asleep in this article.