The secret to longevity of a 116-year-old woman: Not exercise but…

SKĐS - The secret to longevity of 116-year-old Ethel Caterham is not diet or exercise, but maintaining peace of mind, listening to emotions and living her own way...

The Extraordinary Life of Ethel Caterham

In early 2025, Ethel Caterham was officially recognized as the world’s oldest living person after the death of Brazilian nun Sister Inah Canabarro. Born on August 21, 1909, in Hampshire, England, she has lived through more than a century of rapid change – from two world wars to the explosion of technology, from rotary phones to artificial intelligence (AI).

Mrs Caterham’s life was one of adventure and courage. At the age of 18, in 1927, she left her Hampshire village to work as a nanny in India – a courageous decision for a young woman at the time. After three years abroad, she returned to England and married Norman Caterham, a British army major. Their lives took them to Hong Kong and Gibraltar, where Ethel opened a nursery, teaching English and crafts to local children.

The couple eventually settled back in England, and had two daughters, Gem and Anne, who both died. Her husband, Norman, died in 1976. Still, Ethel’s legacy lives on through her three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Longevity seems to run in the family: Her sister, Gladys Babilas, lived to 104.

The secret to longevity of a 116-year-old woman: Not exercise but keeping peace of mind…

The secret to longevity is keeping peace of mind

When asked about the secret to longevity, Mrs. Ethel Caterham shared: "Never argue with anyone. I listen and do what I like."

Unlike many centenarians who focus on strict diets or daily exercise, Caterham emphasizes the importance of mental health. She believes that a calm mind and joyful heart can have a profound effect on longevity.

Scientific studies have demonstrated the important role that mental health plays in longevity. A study by Yale University (2021) found that chronic stress accelerates biological aging, measured by the 'epigenetic clock', thereby increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and reduced life expectancy. Another study in Finland concluded that severe stress can shorten life expectancy by about 2.8 years, linked to cardiovascular disease, immune dysfunction, and premature aging. Conversely, the ability to regulate emotions helps reduce these harmful effects and improve quality of life.

Caterham's approach to life – staying calm amid chaos, listening to her inner feelings, being open and adaptable – not only increases her overall happiness but also protects her from unnecessary stress.

Family life and legacy

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Family was an important part of Caterham’s life. Despite the loss of both her daughter and her husband, she maintained a close relationship with her children and grandchildren. Her caring, loving and connected family was cited as one of the factors that helped her maintain her optimism, which in turn contributed to her remarkable longevity.

Additionally, the longevity of her sister, Gladys Babilas, and the long life history of other family members suggest that genetics also play a role, but it is clear that lifestyle and mental attitude were the decisive factors in her longevity.

Witness history and world change

For more than a century, Ethel Caterham has witnessed unprecedented changes:

• Two world wars.
• Six British kings and 27 prime ministers .
• The transition from handwritten letters and dial-up phones to smartphones, the Internet, and artificial intelligence.
• The COVID-19 pandemic at the age of 111 – a major health and mental challenge.

Her life is truly a "living history book". Experiencing and adapting to these changes has shaped her ability to stay calm, adapt and maintain a state of inner happiness.

Philosophy of life: Calm down, listen and be happy

Caterham's philosophy of life emphasizes that happiness and mental health are just as important as diet and exercise. Avoiding arguments, listening to yourself and pursuing things you enjoy reduces stress, increases happiness and contributes to a long life.

This message is consistent with many scientific studies on the impact of stress and emotions on health. People who maintain a positive attitude, stay calm under pressure, and regulate their emotions tend to live longer and healthier lives.

Lessons from 116 years of life

In today's busy and competitive world, Ethel Caterham's message is timeless: Mental health is as important as physical health. Inner peace and happiness are the real "elixir" for longevity.

Her life reminds us that, beyond genetics and a healthy lifestyle, a peaceful mind and a joyful heart are the keys to a long and happy life.

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Source: https://suckhoedoisong.vn/bi-quyet-song-tho-cua-nguoi-phu-nu-116-tuoi-khong-phai-tap-the-duc-ma-la-169251112184051115.htm