We all have that one person in our lives who seems to have discovered the fountain of youth.

They could be 70 or even 80, but they look and act as if they’re decades younger.

Ever wonder what their secret might be?

Well, it turns out that there are some rather peculiar habits that people who naturally age well tend to have.

Now, you might be thinking, “Oh, it’s probably something like eating healthy or exercising regularly, right?”

Sure, those are important. But the habits I’m talking about are a bit more unconventional.

Intrigued? I thought you would be.

Let’s delve into the unusual world of people who age like fine wine and discover just what it is they do differently, according to psychology.

After all, who wouldn’t want to steal a trick or two from their book?

1) They embrace the unexpected

Those who age well don’t just tolerate life’s surprises, they actually embrace them.

Uncertainty doesn’t scare them. Instead, they view it as an opportunity for growth and learning.

Think about it.

Life is unpredictable. It’s full of unexpected twists and turns. Trying to control everything can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety—things that can definitely speed up the aging process.

But those who age gracefully? They let go. They understand that not everything is under their control. And they’re completely fine with it.

In fact, they thrive on it.

This habit of embracing the unexpected not only keeps their stress levels down but also fosters a positive attitude and resilience.

2) They’re regularly in tune with nature

Now here’s a habit that I’ve observed firsthand.

My 75-year-old neighbor, Mrs. Green (a fitting name, right?), has an energy level that would put a teenager to shame.

Her secret? A deep connection with nature.

Come rain or shine, she spends a good portion of her day outside. Whether it’s gardening, bird-watching, or just sitting on her porch enjoying the fresh air, she’s rarely indoors.

And it’s not just physical activity. It’s soaking up the natural beauty around her—something she says keeps her “young at heart.”

Psychological studies back this up. Being in nature reduces stress, enhances mood, and improves cognitive functioning—factors that contribute to healthy aging.

So, inspired by Mrs. Green, I’ve started spending more time outdoors myself.

I’ve taken up gardening, and let me tell you, there’s something incredibly rejuvenating about getting your hands dirty and watching things grow!

3) They’re not afraid to let their inner child out

Here’s the thing: people who age well know when to let their inner child out and play.

I’m not suggesting we all start building sandcastles or playing hide and seek (although, why not?) but there’s something to be said about embracing your childlike wonder and curiosity.

Whether it’s getting excited about seeing a beautiful sunset or enjoying a simple game of fetch with the dog, these individuals know how to appreciate the little things in life.

And guess what? This habit is backed by psychology too.

Maintaining a sense of playfulness can boost mood, reduce stress, and promote a more positive outlook—all factors that contribute to aging well.

So go ahead, let your hair down every once in a while. Dance like nobody’s watching. Laugh at silly jokes.

Life is meant to be enjoyed, not just endured!

4) They cultivate deep, meaningful relationships

People who age well understand the value of deep, meaningful relationships. They don’t just maintain superficial connections; they build strong bonds with those around them.

They’re the ones who make an effort to keep in touch, to lend a listening ear, to show up when needed.

For them, relationships are not about convenience but about genuine connection.

Psychology supports this too. Studies show that strong social connections not only improve mental health but also contribute to increased longevity.

So go on, reach out to that old friend you haven’t spoken to in a while, spend quality time with your family, make that phone call instead of sending a text.

These actions might seem small, but they could add years to your life.

5) They often indulge in creative pursuits

Many people who age well frequently indulge in creative pursuits.

Whether it’s painting, gardening, knitting, or playing a musical instrument, they understand the importance of having a creative outlet.

Creativity stimulates the brain, reduces stress, and promotes a sense of accomplishment—all factors that contribute positively to aging.

So pick up that paintbrush or dust off that old guitar. Not only will it add more color to your life, but it might also help you age more gracefully.

6) They practice forgiveness

It’s easy to hold onto grudges, to let past wrongs fester and darken our hearts.

But those who age well, they choose a different path—they choose to forgive.

They understand that holding onto resentment is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer. It only hurts them and hampers their own happiness and peace of mind.

By practicing forgiveness, they release the negative emotions that can weigh heavily on both the mind and body.

This doesn’t mean they forget or condone hurtful actions, but they choose not to let these past hurts rob them of their present joy.

So remember, it’s not just for the person who wronged you. Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself.

It’s a step towards healing and a key to aging with grace and dignity.

7) They maintain a positive outlook

Here’s the biggest secret of all: people who age well tend to have an unwaveringly positive outlook on life.

They see the glass as half full, not half empty. They focus on solutions, not problems. They see challenges as opportunities, not setbacks.

They understand that life isn’t always smooth sailing, but they choose to navigate stormy seas with a smile and a sense of optimism.

This positive attitude isn’t just a feel-good mantra. According to psychology, it’s associated with lower stress levels, better mental health, and a stronger immune system. All of which contribute to aging well.

So keep your chin up and your thoughts positive. It might just be your secret weapon for aging like a pro.

The takeaway

So, there you have it. Unusual habits of people who age well, according to psychology.

If you’ve found yourself nodding along to these points, perhaps it’s time to consider incorporating some of them into your own routine.

But remember, aging is more than just biological. It’s also about mindset. And the beauty of mindset is that it’s something we can work on, regardless of our age.

The real secret to aging well isn’t found in a bottle or a magic pill. It’s these daily habits that contribute to our overall well-being.

So why not give them a try? After all, we’re all on this journey of life together. Why not make the most of it and age as gracefully as we can?