Live beyond 100: Dick Van Dyke reveals his daily habits, secrets, and lifestyle choices for longevity |

Dick Van Dyke, the iconic star of Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, is nearing his 100th birthday while still radiating energy, joy, and vitality. His remarkable longevity reflects a blend of genetics, consistent healthy habits, and a positive mindset. In his book 100 Rules for Living to 100: An Optimist’s Guide to a Happy Life, Van Dyke outlines the strategies that have kept him active and engaged throughout his life. He emphasises daily exercise, stretching, and yoga to maintain physical fitness, while playfulness, singing, and social connections nurture mental and emotional wellbeing. By embracing new experiences, staying open-minded, and cultivating joy, Van Dyke demonstrates a holistic approach to healthy ageing and long-term vitality.

As reported by The New York Times, since the actor is just a few days to his 100th birthday, check below his longevity secrets and how to live actively and healthy:

Regular exercise is one of the most important contributors to a long life, and Van Dyke treats it as non-negotiable. He maintains a daily routine that includes both structured workouts and flexible movement. He visits the gym three times a week for circuit training, combining strength and cardio exercises, and often incorporates light dance moves between machines.On days when he does not visit the gym, Van Dyke practices yoga and stretching to maintain flexibility and balance. He proudly notes that he can still touch his toes, a feat that surprises many doctors. Maintaining mobility is crucial for longevity, as it reduces the risk of falls, supports cardiovascular health, and helps preserve independence in old age.Van Dyke also uses creative motivation techniques. He promises himself a short nap as a reward for completing his workouts, demonstrating how positive reinforcement can make exercise a sustainable habit even at an advanced age.

A key aspect of Van Dyke’s approach to ageing is keeping a playful attitude. He consciously avoids negativity and embraces moments of fun and lightheartedness throughout the day. Engaging in play and humour helps him stay connected to the childlike sense of wonder inside him, which scientific research suggests can lower stress, improve mental health, and enhance overall well-being.Van Dyke also finds happiness through pets, keeping three cats and a dog. Animals provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness, and boost emotional health, all of which are important for long-term well-being. Singing daily is another cornerstone of his routine. Research shows that singing reduces stress hormones, improves mood, and even supports respiratory health. By integrating joyful activities like laughter, music, and play into his daily life, Van Dyke nurtures both mental and physical health.

Van Dyke credits part of his vitality to saying yes to new experiences. Being open to opportunities allows him to stay engaged, learn new skills, and maintain cognitive function. For example, he accepted a role directing schoolchildren in a theatre and even danced barefoot in a Coldplay music video. These experiences keep him connected to the world and mentally active.Flexibility and adaptability are also central to his mindset. He embraces evolving social norms, such as using gender-neutral pronouns for his assistant, demonstrating how openness can reduce resistance to change and promote emotional resilience. Accepting novelty and staying curious are essential for maintaining mental sharpness and emotional health as we age.

Strong social bonds are closely linked to longevity, and Van Dyke places a high value on family and friendships. He frequently invites his grandchildren and great-grandchildren over, creating an environment full of laughter, play, and connection. Projects like installing a rope swing or zip-line in his backyard provide joy and foster intergenerational engagement.In addition, Van Dyke maintains friendships with younger peers, such as his a cappella group, the Vantastix. These relationships are not only enjoyable but also mentally stimulating, demonstrating the benefits of intergenerational interaction. While he does not currently have friends of his own age, he remains open to connecting with other centenarians, highlighting the importance of an active social life at any age.

Key to Van Dyke’s longevity: Eliminating alcohol and cigarettes

According to People.com, one of Van Dyke’s most impactful lifestyle decisions was eliminating alcohol and cigarettes from his life. The actor has openly credited this choice as a major reason he has reached nearly 100 years of age. He revealed that he struggled with smoking and alcoholism in his earlier years, checking into hospital in 1972 to address his alcoholism. Quitting cigarettes proved even more difficult, but ultimately transformative for his health.Reflecting on his experience, Van Dyke said, “So I got rid of booze and cigarettes and all that stuff, which is probably why I’m still here.” He also observed the toll these habits took on others, including Walt Disney, who died of lung cancer in 1966. Alongside abstaining from harmful substances, Van Dyke maintains a positive mindset, avoiding anger and hate, which he believes have helped preserve his health and vitality.

At the core of Van Dyke’s longevity is his optimistic mindset. Despite physical limitations such as reduced vision and hearing, he maintains humour, curiosity, and a sense of vitality. He describes moments when he feels as energetic as a teenager, showing that mental attitude is as important as physical health.His philosophy combines evidence-based habits with a joyful approach to life. Staying active, playful, socially engaged, and open to new experiences creates a holistic formula for healthy ageing that can be adapted by anyone seeking a long, fulfilling life.Also Read | What time does your blood pressure really peak? Experts reveal a daily rhythm you should never ignore