It’s no secret that the average life expectancy in the U.S. has increased in recent years. But did you know that this average differs between states across the nation? A 2019 study conducted by the City Health Dashboard found that individuals in major cities like Chicago, San Francisco, New York City, and Washington D.C. could potentially live up to 30 years less than their neighbors in other U.S. cities.[1] Let’s discuss why this is and what measures you can take to ensure you live the long life you deserve.
What Are the Triggers of Aging?
One of the biggest culprits to these vastly differentiating life expectancies is Toxic Stress Load (TSL).[2] TSL can be described as the buildup of negative physical and psychological shifts or challenges that the average person faces throughout their lifetime.[3] To summarize, it is the baggage, hardships, and lessons you have collected. When your Toxic Stress Load becomes overbearing, it triggers changes in your body that can lead to accelerated aging.[4] For most, the concept of TSL is inevitable. However, the intensity, speed, duration, and frequency at which this stress accumulates differs across cities and communities. Those living in bigger cities, for example, are more likely to face bouts of TSL due to rising living expenses and the societal expectation to work hard and delay retirement.
Combat Aging with a Healthy Lifestyle
Although location can play a role in a person’s overall longevity and health, there are certain practices you can follow in order to increase both the quality and length of your life. According to Healthline, “blue zones” are areas of the world where people live considerably longer lives.[5] In recent years, American researcher Dan Buettner embarked on a journey to identify the main factors in general longevity by visiting some of these blue zones.[6] The majority of his findings emphasized the importance of balancing a healthy diet and lifestyle. Maintaining this healthy lifestyle, to summarize, includes regular exercise, implementing routines with the purpose of distracting oneself from daily stress, and incorporating greens and healthy foods in our diets.[7] Furthermore, Buettner’s research also focused on the importance of having a solid support system. By immersing yourself in family, religious communities, social groups, and so on, you can create a healthy support system.
Essentially, living this way means living better and longer. Longevity may have both genetic and geographic influences, but it is also something that can be trained. The way you deal with society’s trials and tribulations can make the difference between a long and healthy life and one that isn’t. While you focus on your overall well-being, why not also take the time to check in with you and your family’s financial wellness? Schedule a complimentary meeting with our team today to take a step closer to financial health.
