How do you reach 100? Some of the world's oldest people reveal their secrets

Want to receive a telegram from the Queen? Then read on

Unlocking the health secrets of centenarians could help you live longer (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Living a full century of life was once considered a rarity, but that’s changing. And while genetics certainly have a lot to do with it, unlocking the health secrets of centenarians could help you live longer.

Luckily, brothers Nick and Dan Buettner have made it their mission to identify communities across the globe that not only have the longest life expectancy, but also the highest population of people over 100.

Named Blue Zone, the concept unveiled Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Nicoya, Costa Rica; Icaria, Greece; and Loma Linda, CA as the longest-living cities in the world.

Interestingly, the Buettner brothers also found that these cities just so happened to share the same nine qualities, despite their obvious differences.

So if you want to receive a telegram from the Queen, you might want to read on.

While we’re often told that rigorous exercise boasts a host of health benefits, this study found that the secret to a longer life doesn’t necessarily mean you have to sweat it out at HIT classes.

Instead, take your cue from these five cities where everyday activities like walking, cycling and mowing the lawn are the norm.

Similarly, all of these communities have simple ways to de-stress, reducing chronic inflammation which is tied to most age-related diseases.

From drinking red wine, which is filled with heart healthy benefits, to focusing on faith, the long-living residents know how to take time for themselves.

Alongside this, eating less and more of the right thing – the Mediterranean diet proved most popular.

A common thread the Buettner brothers also found was that every person had a sense of purpose, whether they were 21 or 100.

Likewise, the study showed that people who have strong connections to family members and friends are likely to be happy and healthier for longer than those who felt isolated.

Making time for loved ones proves to be just one of the many underlying secrets to boosting your longevity, so next time you consider sacking-off plans with a pal, you might want to think again.