In today's fast-paced world, where hectic schedules, long work hours and endless screen time often leave little room for self-care, maintaining good health can feel like a challenge. However, longevity and overall well-being are not built through drastic lifestyle changes but through small, consistent habits. Simple activities such as staying active, pursuing hobbies, managing stress and keeping the mind engaged can have a profound impact on both physical and mental health over time. Keeping this in mind, Oxford-certified celebrity nutritionist Suman Agarwal shared 7 easy-to-follow lifestyle habits on Instagram that can support healthy ageing and improve your quality of life. Cook more meals at homeOne of Suman Agarwal's simplest recommendations is to cook your own meals whenever possible. Preparing food at home gives you greater control over ingredients, portion sizes and calorie intake, making it easier to maintain a healthy diet. She suggests starting small by cooking at least three meals a week.Stay physically activeExercise does not have to involve intense gym sessions. Suman Agarwal recommends finding an activity you genuinely enjoy, whether it is a sport, Pilates, yoga, brisk walking or swimming. According to her, consistency matters more than intensity, with a goal of staying active at least five times a week.Grow something greenGardening is another habit linked to longevity. Suman Agarwal points out that many people living in the world's Blue Zones, regions known for a high concentration of centenarians, continue gardening well into old age. Beginners can start by growing herbs and vegetables such as basil, mint, coriander, tomatoes or okra.Challenge your brain with musicLearning a musical instrument can be an excellent workout for the brain. Suman Agarwal explains that playing music requires reading, listening, remembering patterns and coordinating finger movements simultaneously, engaging multiple areas of the brain. She also noted that people who play musical instruments may have a lower risk of developing dementia.Make time for meditationSuman Agarwal encourages setting aside just 10 minutes each day for meditation. Sitting quietly and focusing on the breath can help reduce stress, strengthen immunity and support heart health. She personally follows this practice every morning after waking up.Read instead of scrollingWhether it is a spiritual text, a religious scripture or a self-help book, reading can help calm the mind and improve focus. Suman Agarwal shared that she reads two shlokas from the Bhagavad Gita daily. Unlike scrolling through social media, reading encourages deeper concentration and promotes relaxation.Reflect through journalingThe final habit on her list is journaling. Spending a few minutes writing about your day, thoughts, frustrations or goals can provide clarity and self-awareness. According to Suman Agarwal, journaling helps people find meaning, purpose and direction in life.With 2026 already nearing its halfway mark, there is no better time to reassess daily routines and make room for habits that support long-term health. Whether you choose to start gardening, meditate for a few minutes each morning or simply cook more meals at home, small steps taken consistently can go a long way in building a healthier, happier and more fulfilling life.
Gardening, journaling, learning music: Celebrity nutritionist shares 7 simple daily habits for a long and healthy life
Maintain good health through small, consistent habits. Oxford-certified nutritionist Suman Agarwal shared seven easy lifestyle changes. Cook more meals at home. Stay physically active five times a week. Grow something green. Challenge your brain with music. Meditate for 10 minutes daily. Read instead of scrolling. Journal your thoughts. These simple steps build a healthier, happier life.











