We all share a common goal of aging gracefully, happily, and successfully. And the truth of the matter is, in this day and age of modern medicine and technology, it IS possible to live to 100 – and beyond. Japan has the highest life expectancy in the world, at an average of 84 years old (but it also has the highest concentration of citizens who are over 100 years old.) The U.S. isn’t far behind, with an average life expectancy of 79.

Of course, there are a myriad of factors that affect and help determine how long you will live. But disease, catastrophe, and freak accidents aside, here are some great habits you can develop to help you on your way to your golden centennial years:

1. Don’t sit!
Stand, stretch, and move as much as possible for cardiovascular health.

2. Eat the rainbow.
Colorful fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and cancer-fighting properties.

3. Go nuts.
Research shows that eating nuts can help lower your body mass index and waist circumference, boost healthy fats, and lower cholesterol.

4. Dance!
Dancing is not only good physical exercise, it raises endorphins and boosts your mood almost 200% better than running or other cardio workouts do. Plus, learning a new complex routine helps keep your brain young and your memory healthy.

5. Laugh.
Did you know that laughter relaxes your muscles, triggers the release of endorphins, improves sleep, enhances creativity and memory, eases digestion, enhances oxygen intake, improves well-being and positive emotions, boosts immune functions, and improves blood pressure? We call that the super-emotion.

6. Floss.
Many people neglect their oral health, dismissing it as one of the less important parts of their health. In fact, oral hygiene strongly affects your cardiovascular health: harmful bacteria in your mouth, if left untreated and uncontrolled, can wreak havoc in your blood stream and potentially cause a heart attack or stroke.

7. Find a hobby.
Having a pleasurable pastime reduces stress and provides a sense of self-accomplishment.

8. Stop smoking.
We hope you know this one already. Research shows that quitting tobacco improves circulation immediately, and the lungs begin to repair damage. After just one year, the added risk of heart disease is halved, and the risk of lung disease, cancer, and stroke also diminish. Even if you quit at age 65, research shows that men gain an average of two additional years of life, while women can gain up to four.

9. Take a vacation.
Learn new things, discover new places, and get away from it all: vacations are good for our entire beings, from our stress levels to our memories.

10. Love yourself.
A positive attitude and self-confidence does more for your mental health than you might even consider.