Habits of a 111-Year-Old Woman You Should Adopt

Centenarians Wang Gaiying, 111, from Rugao, Jiangsu province, China, and Zhan ChangCheng, also 111, maintain exceptional health and longevity through distinct daily habits, ranging from household chores to meticulous personal care routines, according to reports from Jianghai Evening News and Mirror UK.

Rugao Longevity Factors and Household Labor

Wang Gaiying lives in Rugao, a region in China’s Jiangsu province recognized as an “Ibu Kota panjang umur” (longevity capital) containing at least 672 centenarians, according to the Jianghai Evening News. Researchers from the Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences attribute the local longevity partly to mineral-rich soil that yields nutrient-dense crops. Wang, who belongs to a five-generation family, spent her early 100s harvesting peanuts and watermelons. She maintains her physical activity by performing light household chores such as wiping tables and folding clothes. According to Wang, movement keeps her body active and blood circulation smooth, countering her family’s suggestions to rest.

Dietary Habits and Lifestyle Modifications

Wang’s diet features soft, easily digestible foods like fish, and she avoids overeating while maintaining dietary variety. Her family intervened five years ago to stop her previous habit of eating rice soaked in baijiu, a traditional Chinese alcoholic beverage, to prevent dizziness and fall risks. Meanwhile, fellow 111-year-old Zhan ChangCheng exhibits a contrasting dietary approach in reporting covered by Mirror UK. Zhan insists on adding sugar to all his foods, including white rice and cereal, consuming three to four kilograms of sugar monthly. Despite this high sugar intake, family visits and routine checkups show his blood sugar levels remain healthy.

Personal Hygiene and Daily Routines

Zhan ChangCheng displays what his son, Zhan Yingtong, describes as an “obsessive” approach to personal care, brushing his teeth three times daily, according to Mirror UK. Zhan wakes up at 5:00 AM daily to await breakfast prepared by his family, and spends his time walking in the park and playing cards with friends. Prior to his later years, Zhan dedicated 50 years of his life to weaving bamboo and taught numerous students the craft. He lives with his second son, Zhan Yingtong, 72, and his youngest son, Zhan Yingqin, 69.

Mental Health and Stress Management

Wang Gaiying prioritizes mental well-being alongside physical health through structured sleep and stress management. She adheres to a strict sleep schedule from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM, supplemented by one to two daytime naps. Wang maintains a personal rule to perform at least one small act of kindness daily, such as complimenting family members or greeting old friends. To manage stress, she resolves grievances before sleeping, stating via the South China Morning Post, “I never bring problems to bed.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How old are Wang Gaiying and Zhan ChangCheng?

Both individuals have reached the age of 111.

Where does Wang Gaiying live?

Wang Gaiying lives in Rugao, Jiangsu province, China.

What was Zhan ChangCheng’s profession?

Zhan ChangCheng spent 50 years weaving bamboo and teaching the craft to students, according to Mirror UK.