World's oldest woman, 115 years old, swears by this one rule for a long life
In a world where everyone searches for the secret to living a long and fulfilling life, the wisdom of those who have actually achieved extraordinary longevity is invaluable. Ethel Caterham, the world's oldest living woman at the age of 115, offers a simple yet powerful insight into how she has managed to live such a remarkable life.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Born in 1909, Ethel has witnessed immense global changes—from world wars to technological revolutions—and through it all, she has maintained a philosophy that has kept her peaceful, healthy, and vibrant. Her secret? One straightforward rule that she believes has helped her live over a century: 'Never argue with anyone. I listen and I do what I like.' This rule, rooted in calmness and self-respect, reveals much about the connection between emotional well-being and longevity.
One rule the 115-year-old world's oldest woman lives by every day
When asked about her secret to living beyond a century, Ethel's answer was refreshingly simple: avoiding arguments and listening more. She said,
'Never argue with anyone. I listen and I do what I like.'
This philosophy centers on emotional calmness and self-control, avoiding unnecessary conflicts that can drain energy and increase stress.
Scientific research confirms the wisdom in Ethel's words. Chronic stress and emotional turmoil are linked to an increased risk of heart disease, weakened immune function, and accelerated aging.
By choosing to avoid arguments, Ethel likely protected her body and mind from these harmful effects, creating an environment where health and happiness could flourish.
Ethel Caterham's early life and formative experiences
Ethel Caterham was born on August 21, 1909, in the village of Shipton Bellinger, England. Growing up as the second youngest in a family of eight siblings, her early years were shaped by simplicity and traditional values. Life at that time was markedly different — horse-drawn carriages, handwritten letters, and a world on the brink of World War I.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Despite the many historical upheavals she experienced, Ethel maintained a steady and calm disposition throughout her life. This ability to remain composed and adaptable was a foundation that supported her health and longevity.
How emotional well-being impacts longevity
Emotional health is increasingly recognized as a critical factor in overall longevity. Studies show that people who manage their emotions well and maintain stable, positive relationships tend to live longer and healthier lives.
Chronic emotional conflict can lead to inflammation in the body, which is associated with many age-related diseases.
Ethel's ability to listen and remain composed reflects an emotional resilience that scientific studies link to longevity. By conserving her energy for positive experiences rather than arguments, she helped her body maintain a healthier internal balance.
A life rich with experience and travel
Ethel's long life was also marked by boldness and curiosity.
At 18, she traveled to India to work as a nanny, embracing new cultures and challenges. Later, she lived in Hong Kong and Gibraltar with her husband, a British army major. These experiences likely enriched her life and kept her mentally engaged, another important factor linked to healthy aging.
Despite frequent moves and changes, Ethel's calm demeanor never wavered. She raised two daughters in the UK and continued to live with strength and grace, even after the loss of her husband.
115 years of life, love, and calm: What Ethel teaches us about longevity
Ethel recently celebrated her 115th birthday surrounded by friends, family, and caregivers. Beyond the impressive number, her story is a reminder that longevity is about quality as much as quantity. Her life teaches us that peace of mind, emotional balance, and simple joy can be the most effective ingredients for a long life.
Practical lessons From Ethel Caterham's rule for long life
While we cannot all control our genetics or the eras we live through, Ethel's simple rule offers actionable wisdom:
Avoid unnecessary conflict : Focus on listening and understanding rather than arguing, which can reduce stress and promote emotional health.
: Focus on listening and understanding rather than arguing, which can reduce stress and promote emotional health. Do what you like : Prioritise your happiness and well-being, embracing personal autonomy and enjoyment.
: Prioritise your happiness and well-being, embracing personal autonomy and enjoyment. Stay curious : Embrace new experiences and cultures to keep your mind active and engaged.
: Embrace new experiences and cultures to keep your mind active and engaged. Practice emotional resilience: Develop habits that support calmness and mental clarity, such as mindfulness and deep breathing.
Supporting healthy longevity with modern science
Ethel's philosophy aligns with scientific recommendations for longevity, which emphasize emotional health alongside physical health. Regular exercise, hydration, stress management, a balanced diet, and strong social connections are all essential. Emotional calmness and happiness have been shown to enhance immune function, reduce the risk of chronic disease, and improve overall life satisfaction.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
22-05-2025
- Time of India
World's oldest woman, 115 years old, swears by this one rule for a long life
In a world where everyone searches for the secret to living a long and fulfilling life, the wisdom of those who have actually achieved extraordinary longevity is invaluable. Ethel Caterham, the world's oldest living woman at the age of 115, offers a simple yet powerful insight into how she has managed to live such a remarkable life. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Born in 1909, Ethel has witnessed immense global changes—from world wars to technological revolutions—and through it all, she has maintained a philosophy that has kept her peaceful, healthy, and vibrant. Her secret? One straightforward rule that she believes has helped her live over a century: 'Never argue with anyone. I listen and I do what I like.' This rule, rooted in calmness and self-respect, reveals much about the connection between emotional well-being and longevity. One rule the 115-year-old world's oldest woman lives by every day When asked about her secret to living beyond a century, Ethel's answer was refreshingly simple: avoiding arguments and listening more. She said, 'Never argue with anyone. I listen and I do what I like.' This philosophy centers on emotional calmness and self-control, avoiding unnecessary conflicts that can drain energy and increase stress. Scientific research confirms the wisdom in Ethel's words. Chronic stress and emotional turmoil are linked to an increased risk of heart disease, weakened immune function, and accelerated aging. By choosing to avoid arguments, Ethel likely protected her body and mind from these harmful effects, creating an environment where health and happiness could flourish. Ethel Caterham's early life and formative experiences Ethel Caterham was born on August 21, 1909, in the village of Shipton Bellinger, England. Growing up as the second youngest in a family of eight siblings, her early years were shaped by simplicity and traditional values. Life at that time was markedly different — horse-drawn carriages, handwritten letters, and a world on the brink of World War I. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Despite the many historical upheavals she experienced, Ethel maintained a steady and calm disposition throughout her life. This ability to remain composed and adaptable was a foundation that supported her health and longevity. How emotional well-being impacts longevity Emotional health is increasingly recognized as a critical factor in overall longevity. Studies show that people who manage their emotions well and maintain stable, positive relationships tend to live longer and healthier lives. Chronic emotional conflict can lead to inflammation in the body, which is associated with many age-related diseases. Ethel's ability to listen and remain composed reflects an emotional resilience that scientific studies link to longevity. By conserving her energy for positive experiences rather than arguments, she helped her body maintain a healthier internal balance. A life rich with experience and travel Ethel's long life was also marked by boldness and curiosity. At 18, she traveled to India to work as a nanny, embracing new cultures and challenges. Later, she lived in Hong Kong and Gibraltar with her husband, a British army major. These experiences likely enriched her life and kept her mentally engaged, another important factor linked to healthy aging. Despite frequent moves and changes, Ethel's calm demeanor never wavered. She raised two daughters in the UK and continued to live with strength and grace, even after the loss of her husband. 115 years of life, love, and calm: What Ethel teaches us about longevity Ethel recently celebrated her 115th birthday surrounded by friends, family, and caregivers. Beyond the impressive number, her story is a reminder that longevity is about quality as much as quantity. Her life teaches us that peace of mind, emotional balance, and simple joy can be the most effective ingredients for a long life. Practical lessons From Ethel Caterham's rule for long life While we cannot all control our genetics or the eras we live through, Ethel's simple rule offers actionable wisdom: Avoid unnecessary conflict : Focus on listening and understanding rather than arguing, which can reduce stress and promote emotional health. : Focus on listening and understanding rather than arguing, which can reduce stress and promote emotional health. Do what you like : Prioritise your happiness and well-being, embracing personal autonomy and enjoyment. : Prioritise your happiness and well-being, embracing personal autonomy and enjoyment. Stay curious : Embrace new experiences and cultures to keep your mind active and engaged. : Embrace new experiences and cultures to keep your mind active and engaged. Practice emotional resilience: Develop habits that support calmness and mental clarity, such as mindfulness and deep breathing. Supporting healthy longevity with modern science Ethel's philosophy aligns with scientific recommendations for longevity, which emphasize emotional health alongside physical health. Regular exercise, hydration, stress management, a balanced diet, and strong social connections are all essential. Emotional calmness and happiness have been shown to enhance immune function, reduce the risk of chronic disease, and improve overall life satisfaction.
Time of India
06-05-2025
- Time of India
Nakshatra excels in Taekwondo
World's oldest living person, who is 115 years old, shares the one rule that's helped her live so long In a world full of chaos, stress, and constant noise, one woman has quietly walked her path — without arguing, without fuss — and lived to become the world's oldest person. Meet Ethel Caterham, a 115-year-old British woman who now holds the title of the world's oldest living person, according to the Gerontology Research before World War I even began, Ethel's life stretches back to August 21, 1909. But while much around her has changed — wars, technology, and the way people live — her simple mantra has stayed the same: 'Never argue with anyone. I listen and I do what I like.' This one rule, she says, is her secret to long all we need to know about her life, and why her peaceful philosophy is something that still matters today. Times Of India
India.com
04-05-2025
- India.com
She's 115 And Still Smiling — UK's Oldest Woman Reveals Her Longevity Secret, And It's Not What You Think
In a world obsessed with green smoothies, 10,000 steps a day, and anti-aging supplements, the story of Ethel Caterham will surprise you. At 115 years old, she's not just defying time — she's rewriting the rules of what it means to age gracefully. And her secret? It's surprisingly simple: 'Never argue with anyone. I listen, and I do what I like.' Yes, that's right. The world's oldest living woman attributes her extraordinary life not to grueling workouts or restrictive diets but to a peaceful mindset and a drama-free approach to life. The Life of a Century-Spanning Woman Born on August 21, 1909, in the quaint village of Shipton Bellinger, Hampshire, England, Ethel Caterham witnessed two world wars, the rise and fall of empires, the birth of the internet, and over a century of human progress. Her early years took her across the globe — working as a nanny in India, marrying a British army major, and living in far-flung places like Hong Kong and Gibraltar before finally settling in the UK. Today, she resides peacefully in a care home in Surrey, where she recently celebrated her 115th birthday. Among the well-wishers was none other than King Charles III, a moment that marked not just her milestone age but her royal recognition as well. Her True Secret? A Conflict-Free Mind Forget protein-packed diets or elaborate wellness routines — Ethel's formula for longevity is startlingly simple: 'Never argue with anyone.' In her own words, she prefers to listen, go with the flow, and do what brings her joy. This serene approach to life may just be the key. Experts widely agree that chronic stress, conflict, and emotional strain are major contributors to early aging and health issues. Ethel's stress-free lifestyle, developed long before the buzzwords "mindfulness" and "mental wellness" became popular, may be the hidden magic behind her enduring vitality. What About Her Diet and Lifestyle? Though Ethel hasn't publicly revealed any strict diet she follows, longevity experts often observe that supercentenarians (people who live past 110) tend to eat simple, balanced meals, stay well-hydrated, and avoid processed food — often because they were born in an era where such foods didn't even exist. Given her upbringing and time spent in India, it's likely Ethel's plate featured traditional, wholesome ingredients — plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, legumes, and homemade meals. The natural, active lifestyle of her early years may also have laid a strong foundation for health. Lessons From a 115-Year Life Ethel Caterham's incredible journey offers more than just awe — it delivers timeless wisdom for all of us: 1. Let Go of Stress: Her refusal to engage in arguments may be the most powerful longevity tip you'll ever hear. 2. Live Life on Your Terms: Ethel reminds us to follow our joy and listen to ourselves more than others. 3. Stay Socially and Mentally Engaged: Whether with family or community, staying connected boosts emotional health. 4. Cherish Relationships: She places family and love at the center of her long life — not wealth, not fame. You Don't Need to Be Perfect to Live Long You don't need a flawless health routine to thrive past 100. Ethel Caterham proves that a peaceful heart, fulfilling relationships, and simple pleasures may be more powerful than any gym membership or miracle supplement. So next time life gets noisy, remember Ethel's words: 'Never argue. I listen, and I do what I like.' Maybe that's the real secret to a life well-lived.
