As a land renowned for longevity, centenarians are a common sight in Guangxi's Bama County, where people in their eighties and nineties are everywhere.Beyond the region's exceptional natural environment and local water and soil conditions, three key longevity factors stand out: a peaceful mindset, maintaining moderate physical labor, and harmonious family relationships. This past May, work brought me to stay for several days in the world-renowned longevity hotspot—Bama Yao Autonomous County in Guangxi.As a land of longevity, centenarians are not uncommon in Bama, and people in their eighties and nineties are everywhere. After more than ten days of observation, I believe that besides the unique natural environment and local water and soil conditions, there are three other factors that cannot be overlooked in explaining the longevity of the Bama people.
Peaceful Mindset
Among the many centenarians we met, nearly all shared a remarkably calm and optimistic outlook. Regardless of their family circumstances or standard of living, they consistently maintained a broad-minded and positive attitude.
The most memorable figure was a centenarian named Huang Ma Mei. When we visited her home, we saw its simple furnishings and lack of modern appliances—a material standard of living that was quite ordinary. Yet standing before us, the elderly Huang Ma Mei wore a constant smile, her contentment with life radiating from her. In conversation, we sensed this satisfaction came entirely from within.In her own words, she now has no major concerns about food or drink, having weathered all the storms life had to offer. She views everything with calm detachment and a sense of acceptance.
Maintaining Moderate Physical Labor
Nearly every centenarian we visited remained engaged in some form of physical labor. In one village, we encountered a 90-year-old woman whose face bore age spots yet still carried a large bucket of water to irrigate her vegetable patch. Her movements remained agile, her stamina remarkable.
According to a local researcher studying the longevity secrets of the Bama people, these elders have spent their entire lives working. Though arduous, this labor has provided excellent physical exercise, preventing rapid decline in bodily functions with age—a key factor in their longevity. Doesn't this perfectly illustrate the truth that "life lies in movement"?Therefore, modern city dwellers, who engage in too little exercise and even less physical labor, should pay attention to this aspect if they wish to live long lives.
Family Harmony
Family harmony is also closely linked to longevity, which is not hard to understand.A harmonious family means fewer arguments. Anger not only harms the heart but also damages the body. As the saying goes, all ailments arise from anger. If a household is constantly filled with quarrels and never finds peace, the elderly find it difficult to maintain a calm and tranquil mind. Moreover, pent-up emotions and gloom can lead to illness.Among the Bama centenarians we've encountered, every family is harmonious and fulfilling. Spouses are deeply devoted, younger generations are filial, and elders are understanding toward their descendants. Mutual respect and affection prevail, creating ordinary yet joy-filled lives.
Therefore, for us city dwellers, while we may not possess the natural environment enjoyed by the people of Bama, we can certainly emulate these three principles. We should learn from the health practices of the longevity region of Bama.