The Japanese seem to have discovered the trick to living a long life. Residents of the island nation have the highest life expectancy in the world, living, on average, to age 84. While diet and medical care certainly play a part, a significant element is a daily exercise known as radio taisō.
Each morning at 6.30 AM, a routine is broadcast on Japan’s public radio station, NHK. It has been a tradition for almost a century. The broadcast always features the same classical music melody, accompanied by a sequence of simple instructions and countdowns.
The exercises are gentle, looking more like a warm-up. Yet, they have a significant effect on your body and well-being. If you’d like to give the radio taisō routine a try, here’s what you should focus on.
Step #1
Stand tall and stretch your whole body.
Step #2
Bend your knees up and down.
Step #3
Revolve your arms up and around.
Step #4
Spread out your legs and open your chest.
Step #5
Lean from side to side.
Step #6
Bend towards the floor with rhythmic bounces.
Step #7
Twist your body from left to right while swinging your arms.
