Aging isn’t just about how long you live, but how well you live. This is the idea behind improving your healthspan — versus your lifespan — the time in your life where you’re in good health, not weighed down by serious illnesses or disabilities.

Peter Attia’s “Outlive” and other books about longevity shine a light on why focusing on healthspan is so important. It’s all about having quality years filled with energy and happiness, not just more years. Here’s how you can take steps to make your good years last longer:

1. Eat Smart: Eating well is crucial. This means lots of fruits, veggies, lean proteins and healthy fats. It’s about finding what works best for your body, including when and how much to eat. Sometimes, skipping a meal or two can even help keep your body in top shape.
2. Stay Active: Mixing up your workouts is key. You want to get your heart pumping, muscles working and body stretching. This combo keeps your heart, bones and joints healthy so you can keep doing the things you love for longer.
3. Sleep Well: Never underestimate a good night’s rest. Sleep helps your brain, mood, and body stay in peak condition. It’s as important as eating right and staying active.
4. Keep Stress in Check: Too much stress can take a toll on your health. Finding ways to relax and have fun is vital. Whether it’s through meditation, yoga or spending time with friends, keeping stress low means keeping your health high.
5. Check in With Your Doctor: Regular health checks can catch problems before they get big. Staying ahead of health issues means you can enjoy a long, healthy life with fewer bumps in the road.

Simple changes in how you eat, move, sleep, and relax can make all the difference in not just living longer but living better. Here’s to making every year count by being the healthiest, happiest version of yourself.