India, Oct. 18 -- Growing older does not have to mean giving up independence, movement or a sense of purpose. In Japan, everyday routines such as walking, gentle exercise, mindful meals and staying connected to a personal goal offer useful lessons on how people can build healthier habits as they age. Rather than relying on one secret to longevity, these practices focus on small actions repeated over time.

From spending quiet moments outdoors to stopping meals before feeling completely full, several Japanese traditions encourage people to pay attention to their bodies and surroundings. Practices such as Shinrin-yoku, Hara Hachi Bu and Ikigai have attracted international interest because they connect daily choices with wellbeing, although ...