In the small town of Arles, France, in the year 1875, a girl named Jeanne Louise Calment was born. Little did anyone know that she would make history by living an extraordinarily long life and breaking world records. This article traces the incredible journey of Jeanne Louise Calment and explores the lifestyle choices that contribute to a long and healthy life.

1875 - A Remarkable Birth: Born at a time when horse-drawn carriages were the primary mode of transportation and candles provided illumination, Jeanne Louise Calment's birth marked the beginning of an extraordinary life. In 1875, cars and airplanes had not yet been invented, and the world had no inkling of the record she would set.

1889 - Eiffel Tower Rises: At the tender age of 14, Louise witnessed the construction of the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris, an engineering marvel that would become a symbol of France.

1896 - Gandhi's South Africa Move: As Louise turned 21 and got married, Mahatma Gandhi was just beginning his transformative journey in South Africa. Remarkably, Gandhi was only six years her senior.

1914 - The Onset of World War I: When Louise was 39 years old and enjoying a blissful married life with a daughter, World War I erupted in Europe, causing devastation and loss on an unprecedented scale.

1934 - Personal Tragedy Strikes: Tragedy struck Louise's family as her daughter succumbed to a lung infection at the age of 59, an age when most women become grandmothers.

1942 - The Shadow of World War II: Amidst the horrors of World War II in 1942, Louise lost her husband at the age of 64.

1947 - India's Independence: In 1947, as India gained independence from British rule, Louise was 72 years old, silently witnessing history unfold.

1969 - Man on the Moon: Celebrating her 94th birthday in 1969, Louise watched in awe as humans landed on the moon, a monumental achievement for mankind.

1985 - Rajiv Gandhi's Victory: In 1985, Rajiv Gandhi secured a historic electoral victory in India, ushering in a new era as the IT revolution loomed on the horizon. Louise, now 110 years old, continued to lead a simple life.

1988 - The World Takes Notice: By 1988, the world was captivated by Louise, who was widely recognized as the oldest living human.

1997 - A Life for the Record Books: At the remarkable age of 122, Louise passed away in 1997, a time when computers and the internet were already shaping the world.

Jeanne Louise Calment's longevity defied all imagination. She set a record that remains unbroken, prompting the question: What was the secret to her remarkable lifespan?

The Role of Luck and Lifestyle: While luck certainly plays a part in living to 122, scientific research suggests that lifestyle choices have a significant influence. A Danish twin study conducted between 1870 and 1900 found that genetics contribute to only 20% of an average person's life span, with lifestyle and environment accounting for the remaining 80%.

The Blue Zones Discovery: The search for the secrets of long life led to the discovery of Blue Zones – regions where people consistently live longer, healthier lives. Notable Blue Zones include Sardinia (Italy), Okinawa (Japan), Loma Linda (California), Icaria (Greece), and the Nicoya Peninsula (Costa Rica).

The Power 9 Habits: Dan Buettner and his team of researchers identified nine common lifestyle habits, known as the "Power 9," that are prevalent in Blue Zones:

1. Move Naturally: Embrace natural movements, such as walking, gardening, and avoiding a sedentary lifestyle.

2. Purpose: Find a sense of purpose in life, whether through work, hobbies, volunteering, or other activities.

3. Downshift: Manage and reduce stress through daily rituals, prayer, naps, or social interaction.

4. 80% Rule: Practice mindful eating and stop when you're 80% full to maintain a healthy weight.

5. Plant Slant: Consume a plant-based diet with a focus on whole grains, vegetables, and legumes.

6. Wine@5 (with caution): While some Blue Zones include moderate alcohol consumption, it's essential to note that recent research suggests abstaining from alcohol may be the healthiest choice.

7. Belong: Be part of a community or engage in social activities, volunteering, or charity work.

8. Loved Ones First: Prioritize family and maintain lifelong relationships, fostering a sense of commitment and support.

9. Right Tribe: Surround yourself with individuals who encourage healthy behaviors and provide positive influences.

These nine habits have been key to the longevity of individuals living in Blue Zones, where centenarians are more common than elsewhere.

Expanding the Blue Zones: Dan Buettner believes that Singapore may become a new Blue Zone. The city-state's policies, including subsidizing healthy food and taxing junk food, encourage a culture of wellness and longevity. Singaporeans are now among the world's longest-lived and healthiest individuals.

Incorporating these Power 9 habits into your life can increase the likelihood of living a longer, healthier life. While achieving 122 years may be an exceptional feat, adopting these practices can help you reach a century with vitality and well-being, making your own mark in the grand tapestry of life.

Remember, the key to longevity is not just in the genes you inherit but in the lifestyle choices you make. By following the lessons of the Blue Zones, you can increase your chances of living a fulfilling and extended life.