Basic principle – the “why”
1. Make it so small that failure becomes impossible.
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- Don't try to do everything at once; start by choosing just a few individual tasks. So few that "failure becomes impossible." You can always expand later.
- Consistency beats intensity – every day.
2. Habits don't change your goal, they change your identity.
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- Instead of "I want to live a healthier life" → "I am someone who takes good care of their body."
How can I achieve my goals more easily?
- Just do it (the smallest possible step)
- Make obvious (visible, planned)
- Make it attractive (pleasant, rewarding)
- Make it satisfactory (success is noticeable)
Key points:
- Not "all or nothing", but "always something".
- A habit that lasts is more valuable than ten perfect weeks.
- Longevity is not achieved through one perfect day, but through good basics every day.
1. Nutrition – daily, not perfect
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At least one portion of vegetables per main meal
- Don't start with "changing everything" or "only salad," but add a handful more.
- Ideal: Cruciferous vegetables, sprouts or colorful vegetables
Implementation:
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- Place vegetables in a visible location (refrigerator at eye level, bowl on work surface)
- Habit coupling: "After cooking → first put vegetables on the plate"
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No snacks between main meals
- Rationale: Prevents persistent blood sugar spikes, supports metabolism, gut health and fat metabolism.
- Tip: If necessary, choose savory over sweet – this stabilizes blood sugar and keeps you feeling full for longer.
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Sweets only directly after meals
- Rationale: Consuming sugar along with other nutrients slows down the blood sugar response, reducing inflammatory stress.
- Tip: 80% dark chocolate is allowed – it's rich in polyphenols and antioxidants.
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Lunch break between 7 pm and 7 am
- Rationale: A longer overnight fasting period supports circadian metabolic processes, cell repair and hormone balance (e.g. insulin, melatonin).
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Avoid:
- Added sugar and sweets: promote inflammation, insulin spikes, and lipid disorders.
- Plastic/aluminum containers for hot, acidic and fatty foods: avoid potential absorption of harmful substances (e.g. BPA, aluminum)
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Berries 1-2 times daily with meals
- Polyphenols, low glycemic load, longevity-associated
Implementation:
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- Frozen berries on hand
- Replace standard dessert, do not eat in addition.
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Healthy fats every day
- e.g. olive oil, omega-3 oil
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> 2 liters of water or unsweetened tea
- It's most fun in a nice pitcher or mug.
2. Movement – small, regular, coupled
- Daily walk (10–20 minutes)
- Blood sugar regulation, mitochondrial training, stress reduction
Implementation:
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- If-then rule: "If I have eaten → I will walk for 10 minutes", "If I have a break → I will walk for 10 minutes"
- The goal is regularity, not fitness.
- Bonus: Audiobook or podcast → Increase appeal
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2-3 short exercise sessions per week
- Strength & muscle mass = central longevity factor
Implementation:
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- Define a minimum: Count for 5 minutes → e.g., express workouts or plank challenges via app
- Lay out clothing and equipment in a visible location
- Calendar block or fixed anchor time ("right after work" / "right after brushing your teeth") → decision eliminated
3. Sleep & Rhythm – the silent lever
- Fixed bedtime (+/- 30 minutes)
- Circadian rhythm influences metabolism and immune function
- At least 7 hours of sleep per night
- Optimize the sleep environment
- Blue light filter or glasses
- Avoid mobile phones/TV as much as possible. Darkness (use a sleep mask if necessary).
- Temperature approx. 18 °C → supports the body's own melatonin production
- Circadian rhythm influences metabolism and immune function
Implementation:
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- Evening anchor: always the same last action (e.g., tea, reading)
- Consciously reduce light and screen usage
- Sleep is not a bonus, but a basic necessity.
4. Stress & Nervous System – Regulate Daily
- 1 conscious break per day (2–5 minutes)
- Breathing, nature view, short stretching
Implementation:
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- Link it to an existing habit (after parking / before lunch)
- Optional: App for reminders / streak tracking
5. Supplements – as a bridge, not a replacement
- Use supplements consciously and regularly
- Useful in times of stress, increased need, or gaps in daily life
Implementation:
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- Always take with the same meal
- Place next to plates or coffee machines
- Goal: not having to remember
Key rules for longevity habits
- Make it so small that failure becomes impossible. Consistency beats intensity – every single day.
- Not "all or nothing", but "always something".
- Longevity is not achieved through extremes, but through good standards.