A recent study of average life span in the Akita prefecture of Japan revealed surprising results as to the root cause of the longevity.

Japan about 27 percent of the population in Japan is over 65.  This is the country with the worlds highest ratio of persons living long lives.

Physical Exercise and Diet

Most leap to that a long life is linked to health.  This make logical sense .  Building on my last post though, I ask the question, which is more impactfulon the length of yourlife, physical health or mental health.

Clearly it is a combination but focusing on physical activity or the things you eat and drink might not be the full answer.  The surprising result of the Akita prefecture research, reading was a significant factor. 

Mental Health

The study focused on behavioural differences beteewn the people of Akita prefecture and other areas and Japan.  The surprising difference, in fact the only significant difference was the level of reading. 

More books were bought or borrowed per capita than any other reagion.  Newspaper subscriptions were the highest as well as the number of reading focused cultural activities.

Types of food and beverages consumed together with the average level of exercise were very comparable by region.  

Mind over Matter

The conclusion is that while physical health is critical, keeping your mind sharp gives an edge, onaverage, to a longer life. 

Focusing on oerall well being means not just exercise sing your body but also your mind.