The power of pampering

The secret to staying healthy, happy and mentally sharp? Enjoying your favorite little indulgences more often.

- BY BRENDA KEARNS

Boost longevity with book breaks

The next time you feel the urge to cozy up in a quiet spot with a great book, go ahead and do it! According to a Yale University study, treating yourself to 30 minutes of restful reading each day will effortlessly add several healthy, happy years to your life. And experts say that daily book breaks may even help prevent memory-robbing illnesses like dementia. The connection? Getting lost in a great story prods the brain to release a powerful anti-aging hormone called oxytocin.

OR SIP A GLASS OF WINE

You're 36% more likely to celebrate your 90th birthday feeling upbeat and independent if you enjoy a daily glass of vino, Dutch investigators found. They say that powerful wine compounds called polyphenols slow aging of the heart, brain and other organs when enjoyed in moderation.

Spreading joy keeps you healthy!

UCLA scientists say that lifting someone else's spirits (with kind words or a helping hand) boosts your mood too. And regular acts of kindness can lower blood pressure, reduce pain-triggering inflammation and strengthen immunity to help you live a longer life. Spreading joy spurs the release of healing compounds while curbing tissue-aging stress hormones.