Hong Kong's richest billionaire, Ly Gia Thanh, celebrated his 98th birthday on 29/7. Despite his advanced age, he maintains a sharp mind and abundant energy. To sustain his health and mental acuity over time, the billionaire follows six comprehensive wellness practices, according to ST Headline.

His first principle is a simple diet. Ly Gia Thanh rarely eats meat, instead prioritizing vegetables, white rice, and particularly enjoying small fish and his familiar sweet potato dessert for many years. His breakfast typically consists of porridge with a few side dishes and an energy soup. He also frequently enjoys "steamed mackerel rice".

Fish is rich in DHA and EPA, nutrients proven beneficial for brain and cardiovascular health. A joint study by Harvard University and Washington University in the US showed that individuals over 65 who ate fish two times each week had an average 27% lower mortality rate and a 40% lower risk of cardiovascular disease compared to the average. Additionally, a study in the Netherlands indicated that fish consumption not only helps extend lifespan but also stimulates brain activity, reducing the risk of depression and dementia in old age.

Billionaire Ly Gia Thanh. Photo: VCG

Beyond nutrition, he also performs physical training daily. Each morning after waking, he dedicates about 1.5 hours to playing golf. This helps him train his body, strengthen muscles, manage weight, and relax his mind. Along with golf, swimming and fishing are other physical activities he enjoys.

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, Ly Gia Thanh would wake early almost every morning to play golf. Data from the Bureau of Agricultural Extension and Health Rehabilitation shows that an adult weighing 60 kg can burn about 111 calories after 30 minutes of golf. A golf swing not only trains arm muscles but also impacts shoulder, core, and many other muscle groups, making it a relatively gentle yet highly effective form of exercise.

In parallel with physical activities, the 98-year-old billionaire consistently performs daily stretching exercises. Each morning after waking, he practices "body softening" routines, including bending to touch his toes and stretching his back muscles. These stretching movements help seniors improve flexibility, enhance joint mobility, and promote blood flow to muscles. This exercise not only soothes aches and pains but also maintains physical resilience and minimizes the risk of falls in older adults.

When facing work pressure, he chooses to close his eyes and rest. He believes that the busier one is, the more important it is to take time to close one's eyes, relax the entire body, and maintain a steady breath to relieve stress and quickly regain focus. Ly Gia Thanh once shared that he lives a simple life. His afternoons are usually fully scheduled to handle a maximum number of meetings and social engagements. He rarely schedules evening activities as he dislikes nightlife. After dark, the businessman sleeps soundly and consistently wakes up at 5:59 AM every day. This disciplined routine helps him maintain stamina, preventing quick fatigue even when working outside.

A study published in Sleep journal previously indicated that individuals who maintain a habit of sleeping early and waking early have significantly better physical activity and mental health compared to those who sleep early but wake late, or sleep late and wake early. Sleeping and waking early creates more time for exercise, ensures physical fitness, and reduces the risk of overweight and obesity, factors that negatively impact both physical and mental health.

Furthermore, the Hong Kong billionaire always proactively undergoes regular health check-ups. He views frequent examinations as a form of body maintenance, helping to detect and address potential risks early, preventing minor illnesses from progressing to serious conditions.

Finally, as a Buddhist, he believes that diligently performing good deeds brings serenity and joy to the soul. This spiritual contentment is the core factor that helps him maintain good health and longevity.

Billionaire Ly Gia Thanh was born in Guangdong, China. He is a renowned investor, industrial capitalist, and philanthropist from Hong Kong. He retired in 2018, entrusting his business empire to his eldest son, Ly Trach Cu.

Binh Minh (According to ST Headline)