12 Royal Secrets of Longevity

Have you ever noticed how members of the British royal family seem to live so long? It's no accident!

Queen Elizabeth II was active well into her 90s, and her mother lived beyond 100 years old [1].  These royals undoubtedly possess valuable insights into healthy aging that we can learn from.

I was amazed to discover what happens behind palace walls. These monarchs follow health practices that really help them live longer. The surprising thing is that, while they receive the best medical care money can buy, many of their wellness habits are actually quite simple and something everyone can do.

Royal longevity isn't just about special genes or having privileged access to healthcare. It's about consistent daily habits that support physical health, mental sharpness, and emotional well-being.

Their routines include things like regular check-ups, daily movement, brain exercises, and stress management that have worked for generations.

The good news is you don't need a crown on your head to benefit from these royal health secrets! The same practices that keep monarchs thriving can work for anybody willing to try them.

These 12 royal secrets of longevity that I'm about to share provide a roadmap to better health and longer life, inspired by those who've mastered aging well while constantly in the public eye.

Getting regular health checks is extremely important as you age. The British royal family takes this very seriously [2]. 

They have scheduled screenings that catch problems early before they become serious. You should have your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar checked regularly too. These simple tests can spot heart disease, stroke risk, and diabetes early [3]. 

Women should schedule breast exams, mammograms, and pap tests. Men benefit from prostate screenings [4]. 

When you catch health issues early, they're usually much easier to treat. Regular doctor visits might seem boring, but they're one of the most important ways to protect your health for years to come [5]. 

Did you know walking is a royal tradition that serves the monarchy well?

You don't need fancy equipment or an expensive gym membership to enjoy this simple exercise. A daily 30-minute walk helps lower blood pressure, reduces stress, and improves your overall health [6]. 

The queen's love of horseback riding added another dimension to her fitness routine [7]. Riding works nearly every muscle in your body while connecting you with nature.

Whatever activity you choose, the key is to make it a regular habit. Even mild exercise offers numerous benefits for your heart, bones, and mental well-being [8].  Find something you enjoy and make it part of your daily routine – your body will thank you for decades to come.

Using your brain regularly helps keep it sharp as you age [9].  Try these activities to stay mentally fit:

• Reading books and newspapers

• Doing puzzles and word games

• Learning new skills or hobbies

• Having meaningful conversations

• Taking classes on topics that interest you

The royals stay mentally engaged through their duties, which include reviewing documents, meeting with officials, and staying informed about global events [10]. 

You can achieve similar benefits by challenging yourself on a daily basis. Learn to play an instrument, study a language, or join a book club.

When you regularly exercise your mind, you build cognitive reserves that protect against memory problems later in life [11]. 

Everyone faces stress – even queens! The difference is in how you manage it.

The royal family has weathered many storms, from personal scandals to national crises, while maintaining composure [12]. 

When facing difficult times, try these stress-busting techniques:

• Deep breathing exercises

• Regular meditation

• Time in nature

• Talking with trusted friends

• Setting healthy boundaries

Remember that not all stress is bad. Positive challenges keep life interesting and your mind engaged. It's the chronic, overwhelming stress that damages your health [13]. 

Learn to distinguish between healthy challenges and harmful pressure, then develop tools to handle the difficult moments with grace.

Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to extend your life [14]. 

The royals generally maintain slim figures throughout their lives, which helps prevent many health problems [15]. 

Excess weight, especially around your middle, increases risks for:

• Heart disease

• Type 2 diabetes

• Certain cancers

• Joint problems

• Sleep apnea [16]

Rather than focusing on crash diets, aim for gradual weight loss through sustainable habits. Eat smaller portions, increase your vegetable intake, and stay active through regular exercise.

A healthy weight isn't about appearance – it's about reducing inflammation and stress on your organs and joints [17]. 

The royal diet consists of a variety of fresh, seasonal foods. The Queen's meals feature vegetables, lean proteins, and moderate portions [18]. 

You can adopt similar habits by:

1. Eating more plants than anything else

2. Choosing quality proteins like fish, poultry, and legumes

3. Limiting processed foods and added sugars

4. Enjoying seasonal fruits and vegetables

5. Practicing portion control even with healthy foods

The Mediterranean diet pattern, with its emphasis on olive oil, nuts, fish, and vegetables, has been linked to longer lifespans [19]. 

You don't need personal chefs to eat well – focus on whole foods and thoughtful preparation.

Did you ever think that the British tea tradition isn't just cultural – it might actually contribute to better health?

Tea contains antioxidants called polyphenols that fight inflammation and support cell health [20].  The royal family's tea tradition includes regular breaks for a proper cup, often served at the same time each day [21]. 

Barley water, another royal favorite, provides hydration with added nutrients [22]. Staying well-hydrated helps your body:

• Remove waste products

• Regulate temperature

• Lubricate joints

• Support organ function

• Keep skin healthy [23]

Make it a habit to drink water throughout the day. Herbal teas contribute to your fluid intake while offering additional benefits from herbs and spices.

The Queen reportedly enjoyed a gin cocktail before lunch and champagne or wine with dinner. The key word here is moderation. [24]

Research suggests that small amounts of alcohol, particularly red wine, may offer heart benefits for some individuals [25]. 

However, the health risks increase significantly with each additional drink. If you choose to drink alcohol:

• Limit to one drink daily for women, two for men

• Don't save up for binge drinking sessions

• Choose quality over quantity

• Never drink and drive

• Skip alcohol if you have health conditions that warrant abstaining [26]

Remember that you can get the same social benefits from non-alcoholic alternatives if alcohol isn't right for you.

I was surprised to learn that the Queen's love of corgis and horses wasn't just a hobby – it might have actually contributed to her health! [27]

Pets provide companionship that reduces stress hormones and increases beneficial ones like oxytocin [28]. 

Studies show pet owners often have:

• Lower blood pressure

• Reduced cholesterol levels

• Less anxiety and depression

• More opportunities for exercise and outdoor time

• Enhanced immune function [29]

Even if you can't have a pet, spending time with animals at shelters or friends' homes can provide similar benefits.

The routine of caring for another living being gives purpose and structure while creating a loving bond.

Isolation can be as harmful to health as smoking or obesity. The royal longevity tradition includes maintaining strong social connections. [30]

You can strengthen your social network by:

• Scheduling regular calls with friends and family

• Joining clubs or groups with shared interests

• Volunteering in your community

• Taking classes or workshops

• Participating in faith communities

Quality matters more than quantity. Even a few close relationships provide significant health benefits.

Research indicates that individuals with strong social connections tend to live longer and recover more quickly from illnesses [31]. Make time for the people who matter most to you, and be willing to both give and receive support through life's challenges.

Service to others is a cornerstone of royal duty that brings unexpected health benefits.

When you volunteer or help others, your brain releases endorphins that create a "helper's high," reducing stress and boosting mood [32]. The royal family's charitable work is not just about public image – it provides purpose and meaning that contributes to psychological well-being [33]. 

Volunteering offers several health advantages:

• Lower rates of depression and anxiety

• Reduced feelings of isolation

• A greater sense of purpose and satisfaction

• Improved cognitive function in older adults

• Extended lifespan compared to non-volunteers [34]

Even small acts of kindness, like checking on neighbors or mentoring younger colleagues, can provide these benefits.

When you focus on others' needs, your own troubles often feel more manageable. Find causes that matter to you and contribute your time or talents regularly.

Many royal traditions incorporate spiritual practices, whether through formal religious roles or personal beliefs. [35]

Research suggests that people with spiritual or religious practices tend to live longer, healthier lives [36]. 

This connection may work through several mechanisms:

• Creating community and social support

• Providing comfort during difficult times

• Offering ethical frameworks that reduce harmful behaviors

• Encouraging gratitude and positive thinking

• Promoting regular meditation or prayer [37]

Spirituality doesn't necessarily mean formal religion – it can be any practice that connects you to something larger than yourself.

Whether through nature, philosophy, art, or traditional faith, finding meaning beyond daily concerns helps put life's challenges in perspective.

Taking time for spiritual reflection, whatever form it takes, can reduce stress and increase your sense of purpose and contentment.

Living like royalty doesn't require a palace or a crown – it simply means adopting habits that have stood the test of time.

The British monarchy's longevity practices demonstrate that good health comes from consistent daily choices rather than dramatic interventions or extravagance.

As you consider these twelve royal health secrets, remember that small changes add up to significant benefits over time. You don't need to transform your life overnight.

Start with one or two practices that resonate with you, whether it's taking daily walks, scheduling regular health screenings, or strengthening your social connections.

The true wisdom in these royal habits lies in their balance and moderation. From enjoying treats in reasonable portions to finding purpose through service to others, these practices enhance the quality of life while potentially extending its length. They represent a holistic approach to wellness that nurtures body, mind, and spirit.

Perhaps the most important royal lesson is consistency. The monarchs who enjoy remarkable longevity don't chase health fads or quick fixes – they maintain steady routines year after year.

By adopting these timeless practices as your own daily habits, you too can enjoy the benefits of living like royalty where it matters most: in your health and wellbeing for years to come.