Dick Van Dyke attributes his longevity to a positive attitude, emphasizing the importance of avoiding anger and hate as he approaches his 100th birthday.
Dick Van Dyke, the beloved actor and entertainer, is set to celebrate his 100th birthday this year. In a recent interview with People, he shared insights into his remarkable longevity, attributing it largely to his positive outlook on life.
Van Dyke expressed that he feels “really good” and is fortunate to experience “no pain, no discomfort.” He believes that a key factor in his long life is his avoidance of anger and hate, which he considers detrimental to one’s well-being. “I’ve always thought that anger is one thing that eats up a person’s insides – and hate,” he explained, noting that people often inquire about his secret to a long life.
In the interview, Van Dyke described himself as “rather lazy” and mentioned that he has never been driven by resentment or negativity. “Sometimes I have more energy than others – but I never wake up in a bad mood,” he said, highlighting his generally upbeat disposition.
While acknowledging that there are things and people he does not like or approve of, he emphasized that he has never been able to cultivate a feeling of hate. He contrasted his own emotional resilience with that of his father, who he described as “constantly upset by the state of things in his life.” Van Dyke noted that his father passed away at the age of 73, which he believes underscores the importance of emotional health in longevity.
Modern research supports Van Dyke’s perspective on the impact of emotional states on long-term health. Studies have shown that anger can lead to increased inflammation in the body, raising levels of inflammatory markers such as IL-6, which can elevate the risk of various illnesses. This physiological strain can accelerate the aging process, suggesting that patterns of hostility or persistent irritation may have detrimental effects on overall health.
Van Dyke further elaborated on his belief that people are born with a certain outlook on life. “I just think I was born with a brighter outlook,” he said, contrasting his experience with those who may struggle against a more negative mindset. “And after 100 years, I think I’m right,” he added with a touch of humor.
As he reflects on his life, Van Dyke shared that he does not fear death. “When you expire, you expire,” he remarked. “I don’t have any fear of death for some reason. I can’t explain that but I don’t. I’ve had such a wonderfully full and exciting life… I can’t complain.” His 100th birthday is set for December 13, a milestone that he approaches with gratitude and a sense of fulfillment.
In a world where negativity can often dominate headlines, Van Dyke’s perspective serves as a reminder of the power of positivity and emotional well-being in promoting longevity and a fulfilling life.
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