I eat TOP 5 Food and Don't Get OLD! Japan's OLDEST Fitness Instructor 92 yr old Takishima Mika

health and life
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#EldersInsight #HealthyAging #JapaneseLongevity
What’s the secret to staying energized, healthy, and joyful well into your 90s? Meet Takishima Mika—Japan’s oldest active fitness instructor—who is redefining what it means to age gracefully. In this deeply inspiring video, we explore her daily habits, from the food she eats to the way she moves and thinks about lif
What if I told you the secret to feeling 20 years younger is not found in a pill, or a fancy gym,
or a high-tech device, but right in the kitchen of a 92-year-old woman in Japan?
Her name is Takeshima Mika. She is Japan's oldest active fitness instructor. At 92 years old,
she wakes up before the sun rises, exercises for hours, and teaches fitness classes with a smile
that could light up a room. But what truly sets her apart is not just her strength or her stamina,
it is how she lives, what she eats, and the quiet wisdom behind every simple choice she makes.
In this video, we are not just talking about longevity, we are talking about vitality,
energy, a sense of purpose, and how all of that can be built meal by meal, step by step,
choice by choice. So stay with me, because we are about to take a gentle but powerful journey
through the daily life of a woman who has redefined what it means to grow older, with grace, with joy,
and with incredible health. If you have ever thought it was too late to change, if you have
ever wondered whether feeling good again was still possible, Takeshima Mika's story might
change your mind. Let's begin. Meet Takeshima Mika. Takeshima Mika was not born into fame.
She did not grow up dreaming of becoming a fitness instructor. In fact,
she didn't begin teaching fitness classes until she was 87 years old. Yes, you heard that right, 87.
For most people, that is the age where things begin to slow down. But for Mika, it was the
beginning of something entirely new. Born in Japan, she lived an ordinary life for many years.
She raised a family, worked, and did all the things we expect from a good life.
But as she aged, something inside her changed. She didn't want to just survive. She wanted to thrive,
and she believed it was never too late to start. Today, at 92, Mika teaches multiple exercise
classes a week. She inspires people half her age and even younger to take better care of their
bodies. But her real secret? It is not about pushing harder. It is about being consistent,
being kind to your body, and deeply respecting the role that food, movement, and mindset play in your
health. People look at her and ask, how does she do it? And the answer begins with the way she
starts her day. Her morning routine and breakfast. Takeshima Mika begins her day when most of the
world is still fast asleep. She wakes up before 4 o'clock in the morning. Yes, before 4. And she
does not roll out of bed reluctantly or reach for a phone. The first thing she does is drink a full
glass of water. Simple, right? But this single habit helps her hydrate her body after a full
night's rest and sets the tone for the day ahead. Then by 4 in the morning, she's outside,
walking, moving, breathing in the early morning air. She starts with a four kilometer walk that
is about two and a half miles. After that, she turns around and jogs three more kilometers,
almost two miles, and then walks one more kilometer to cool down. Altogether, her early
morning routine totals nearly five miles of walking and jogging. This takes her about two
hours. Now, you might be thinking, there's no way I could do that. And that is okay. This is not about
comparing. It is about learning. Because what Mika shows us is the power of routine. The power of
making movement a non-negotiable part of your life. She does not run because she is young.
She is young in spirit because she moves with intention every single day. By 7 in the morning,
she sits down to a breakfast that fuels her body, not just to survive, but to thrive. It is not
flashy. It is not trendy. But it is full of powerful, nourishing foods that support her
body from the inside out. Let's take a closer look. One of the core items in her breakfast is
natto. Natto is a traditional Japanese dish made from fermented soybeans. It has a unique smell
and a sticky stringy texture that might surprise you at first. But it is a nutritional powerhouse.
Just 100 grams of natto, that's about half a cup, contains nearly 70% of your daily manganese,
close to 50% of your daily iron, and nearly 30% of your magnesium and zinc needs.
It is also rich in vitamin K, calcium, potassium, and selenium. But perhaps most importantly,
natto is fermented. That means it is full of probiotics, those friendly bacteria that help
support a healthy gut. For older adults, gut health is directly linked to immunity, mood,
digestion, and even brain function. Natto helps your body absorb nutrients more easily,
reduces bloating, and supports regular digestion. Now, if you are thinking, natto sounds hard to
find, do not worry. It can be made at home using soybeans and a fermentation starter,
or even more easily, purchased from most Japanese or Asian grocery stores.
And if natto is not available where you are, there are similar options like tempeh or even
fermented sauerkraut that can provide many of the same benefits. Alongside natto, Mika also
enjoys plain yogurt with a spoonful of honey. Yogurt is high in calcium, which supports strong
bones and healthy teeth. It also contains vitamin B12 and riboflavin, two nutrients that help protect
against heart disease and certain neurological conditions. A single cup of yogurt can provide
up to 30% of your daily phosphorus, along with key minerals like magnesium and potassium.
Together, natto and yogurt create a perfect combination of probiotics and prebiotics.
They feed the healthy bacteria in your gut and keep your digestion strong and balanced.
But Mika's breakfast does not stop there. She also includes a fresh salad made with lettuce,
broccoli, and tomatoes. These are simple vegetables, but they are rich in vitamins,
fiber, and natural antioxidants. The broccoli she uses is seasonal, meaning it is fresher and richer
in nutrients. Seasonal eating is one of the quiet secrets of traditional Japanese diets.
Eating what the earth offers at the right time of year. She adds a few slices of lean ham cooked
without oil, just lightly pan-fried to keep the fat content low. This gives her a protein boost
to support muscle strength without weighing her down. For older adults, maintaining muscle mass
is vital, not just for strength, but for balance, mobility, and independence. Now here is something
uniquely Japanese, nukazuke, or rice bran pickles. These are fermented pickles made from vegetables
like carrots, cucumbers, or eggplants, cured in a special mix of roasted rice bran, salt,
and seaweed. They are tangy, crisp, and packed with probiotics. Fermented vegetables like nukazuke
are traditional in many cultures, and they offer real benefits. Better digestion, reduced inflammation,
and even improved mood through the gut-brain connection. When you look at Mika's breakfast
as a whole, it is a lesson in balance. She has fiber from her salad, probiotics from natto and
yogurt, protein from ham and soybeans, and vitamins and minerals from every bite. There are no sugary
cereals, no heavy pastries, no processed food, just clean thoughtful nourishment, chosen not for
excitement, but for energy and wellness. And the beauty is, you can do this too. You do not have to
eat natto, but you can add a small bowl of plain yogurt to your morning. You do not have to walk
five miles, but maybe you can take a 10-minute walk around the block before breakfast. You do not
have to change everything. Just one thing, one small change that says, I'm choosing to take care of
myself today. Because the goal is not perfection. The goal is vitality. And as Mika reminds us, it is
never too late to begin. Midday habits and light lunch. By the time most of us are just starting
to think about lunch, Takeshima Mika has already completed a full morning of movement, enjoyed a
nutrient-rich breakfast, and is ready to keep her day moving forward gracefully and purposefully.
But what she does next might surprise you. Her lunch is simple. In fact, it is lighter than what
many of us would call a snack. Mika typically eats one banana and drinks a small bottle of Yakult,
which is a Japanese probiotic beverage. That's it. No sandwich, no large meal, no processed snacks.
Just a light, clean combination that gives her what she needs without making her feel heavy or
tired. Now you might wonder, is that enough? But remember, the goal of lunch for Mika is not to
fill up. It is to stay light, stay energized, and stay in motion. She knows her body. She knows what
works. And she listens to it. Let's take a closer look at the two key elements of her midday meal.
The banana is one of nature's perfect foods. It is portable, easy to digest, and packed with
nutrients, especially potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart
health. One medium banana provides about 9% of your daily potassium needs. It is also a good
source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and fiber. Even more importantly, bananas contain prebiotics,
a special type of fiber that feeds the good bacteria in your gut. When combined with a
probiotic source like yogurt or Yakult, this creates a powerful synergy that supports digestion
and boosts immunity. Speaking of Yakult, this small, sweet probiotic drink has been a staple
in Japan for decades. It is made with a specific strain of beneficial bacteria called Lactobacillus
Chirota, which has been shown to support digestive health, immune function, and even mood.
Now, if you are concerned about sugar, Mika has a helpful tip. She chooses bananas that are less
ripe. Less ripe bananas have a lower sugar content and a higher level of resistant starch,
which acts like fiber and keeps your blood sugar more stable. So what can we learn here? First,
lunch does not have to be heavy to be healthy. In fact, eating a light, clean lunch can actually
help you avoid that mid-afternoon crash. It gives your body just enough energy to keep going
without overwhelming your digestion or making you feel sluggish. Second, combining a source
of prebiotics like bananas with a source of probiotics like yogurt, kefir, or Yakult can be
a simple but powerful way to support your gut health. And third, Mika reminds us that listening
to your body is more important than following trends or strict rules. She eats light at lunchtime
because she knows that's what allows her to stay active, focused, and feeling good all day. But
it's not just what she eats. It's also how she lives in between her meals. Even when she is resting,
Mika remains mindful of her body. When she watches television, she does not slouch or sink into the
couch. She sits tall with her back straight and her core gently engaged. It's a small thing, but it
strengthens her posture and keeps her muscles active. She also walks around her home on tiptoe.
Yes, on tiptoe. This might sound strange, but it is a quiet way to engage the legs,
improve balance, and strengthen the feet and calves, all without ever leaving the house.
These little habits add up. Mika does not need a gym or fancy equipment. She turns daily life
into movement. She turns moments of stillness into gentle strength training. She stays active
not because she is chasing youth, but because she honors the life in her body every single day.
So, if lunch is your time to pause and recharge, consider following her lead. Skip the heavy meal,
have a piece of fruit, sip a small probiotic drink, and instead of lying down, maybe go for
a short walk. Sit tall, stretch gently, breathe deeply. Let lunch be a moment of lightness,
a moment to reset, a moment to remind your body that you are on its side. Because aging well is
not about doing more. It is about doing the right things with love, with intention, and with deep
respect for the body that carries you. Evening routine and hearty dinner. After a full day of
movement, mindfulness, and purpose, Takeshima Mika ends her day with a meal that is as thoughtful as
her morning. Her dinner is not just a time to eat. It is a time to replenish. It is a quiet moment
of care, and everything on her plate serves a reason, a role, a purpose. Her evening meals are
hearty, but not heavy. Full, but never excessive. They are designed to rebuild, to restore, and to
prepare her body for rest and healing. Let's take a look at what a typical dinner looks like for Mika.
First, she starts with lean protein, usually in the form of fish or chicken thigh. Fish is rich
in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function.
Chicken thigh, especially when cooked without heavy oils or sauces, provides high quality
protein and essential nutrients, while still being gentle on digestion. She sometimes enjoys chicken
curry with carrots, served over a small portion of rice cooked with salmon flakes. This combination
offers complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and additional protein, all working together to restore
muscle and energy after an active day. Tofu is also a regular part of her evening meal.
This simple soy-based food is rich in plant protein and contains all nine essential amino acids.
It is also high in calcium, iron, and magnesium, nutrients that help support bone health,
muscle function, and a calm nervous system. Alongside her protein sources, she includes
plenty of cooked vegetables. One of her favorites is boiled spinach, rich in vitamin A, vitamin C,
iron, and fiber. Cooking spinach lightly helps unlock its nutrients and makes it easier to digest,
especially for older adults. Another key item is Korean kimchi, a spicy fermented cabbage dish
that is loaded with probiotics. The fermentation process creates beneficial bacteria that promote
gut health, reduce inflammation, and support immunity. And for Mika, the bold flavor of kimchi
pairs beautifully with the softness of rice and fish. Then there is natto again, yes, even for
dinner. This fermented soybean dish shows up in both breakfast and dinner for good reason. Natto
contains an enzyme called natokinase, which is believed to help thin the blood and break down
blood clots. This can help lower the risk of heart attack and stroke, which is especially important
as we age. And she does not stop there. Mika also prepares a fresh lettuce and tomato salad,
often topped with a bit of grilled chicken. But here is the interesting part.
She skips the dressing. No oils, no sugars, no added salt. Just clean, crisp vegetables,
offering hydration, fiber, and natural vitamins. She knows that when food is fresh and whole,
it does not need to be masked. Its purpose speaks for itself. To complete the meal, she enjoys a warm
bowl of miso soup. Made from fermented soybean paste, miso is rich in probiotics, amino acids,
and minerals like zinc and manganese. It is soothing, healing, and deeply satisfying,
especially at the end of the day. The warmth of the soup helps calm the nervous system
and prepare the body for restful sleep. She might also include a few beans, or rakyo, which are
Japanese scallions. These are small, tangy, and fermented, adding a final boost of digestive
support to her meal. What makes Mika's dinner so powerful is not just the ingredients,
but the balance. She includes lean protein to rebuild her muscles, vegetables for vitamins and
antioxidants, fermented foods to support digestion, rice and tofu for sustained energy, warm soup for
comfort and calm, and she eats with awareness. She does not rush. She does not multitask. She gives
her body the gift of attention, and in doing so, she sends a message, not just through words, but
through action. I care about how I feel. I care about what I put in my body. I care enough to
choose wisely. And this is something we can all take with us, because you do not have to eat miso
soup. You do not have to like natto, but you can create your own version of a healing evening meal.
Try adding one fermented food to your dinner. Try swapping heavy dressings for simple lemon juice
or fresh herbs. Try ending your day with something warm and gentle, instead of something fast and
fried. Mika's dinner is not complicated, but it is intentional, and that is the key. In the final
hours of her day, she nourishes her body, not just for the night, but for tomorrow, for the future,
for the joy that is still ahead. Because when you treat dinner like a gift, your body responds with
energy, with healing, and with grace. Lifestyle philosophy and emotional reflection. If you asked
Takashima Mika what her real secret is, what keeps her so youthful, so vibrant, and so full of life,
she probably would not talk about protein or probiotics. She would tell you something simple,
something honest. She would tell you that she keeps moving every day, that she eats with
gratitude, and that she believes in the power of small efforts done consistently over time.
At 92 years old, Mika is not chasing youth. She is living fully in the body she has,
right now. She does not see aging as a decline. She sees it as an opportunity, a time to reconnect
with her body, to embrace the rhythm of daily life, and to honor herself with care. And that
mindset may be her greatest strength of all, because here is the truth. There is no magic pill,
no one-size-fits-all diet, no shortcut to vitality. But there is something else,
something even more powerful. There is routine, there is intention, there is the quiet choice made
each day to show up for your body with love. Mika teaches us that it is not the extremes that keep
us strong, it is the simple nourishing rituals repeated over and over again. She wakes up early,
not to prove anything, but because movement brings her peace. She eats well, not to impress anyone,
but because she understands that food is her foundation. She keeps her posture straight,
even while watching television, not because someone told her to, but because she wants
to support her own strength. It is a mindset, a philosophy, to keep showing up, to keep learning,
to keep honoring life by taking care of the vessel that carries it.
And what is so powerful about Mika's story is that she did not begin her fitness journey until
she was in her late 80s. She didn't start teaching exercise classes until she was 87 years old.
Think about that for a moment. How many of us have said, it's too late for me? How many times
have we thought I missed my chance? But Mika proves beautifully that it is never too late
not to change, not to heal, not to grow strong, not to love your body again. Aging is not the end.
It is simply a new chapter, and like any chapter, it can be written with courage, with beauty,
and with purpose. So whether you are 60 or 70, 80 or 90, or somewhere in between, this story is for
you. It is a gentle reminder that your body still listens to how you treat it, that your future self
is shaped by the small choices you make today, and that you deserve to feel good, to feel strong,
to feel alive, not someday, but right now. Because as Takeshima Mika has shown us,
it is never too late to begin again. Actionable takeaway. Now that you've seen how Takeshima Mika
lives, with movement, with intention, and with love, you might be wondering, where do I begin?
The good news is, you don't need to wake up at four in the morning, you don't need to run five
miles, and you definitely don't need to change everything overnight. You just need to take one
small step. So here's something simple to try. Let's call it the Mika Challenge. Three days,
just three days to gently introduce a few of her habits into your own life and see how you feel.
Day one. Start with the morning. When you wake up, drink a glass of water, then take a short walk,
five minutes, ten minutes, whatever you can. Let your body stretch. Let the air touch your face.
Then, for breakfast, try a bowl of plain yogurt with a little honey. Add a banana or some berries.
Keep it light, clean, and calming. Day two. Focus on posture and movement. As you go about your day,
sit up tall. Whether you're watching tv, reading a book, or drinking tea, walk slowly around your
home a few times on your toes, these tiny habits strengthen your muscles in ways you might not even
notice at first, but they matter. Day three. Try a Mika-style dinner. Cook a piece of fish or chicken.
Add a warm bowl of soup, miso, or even a simple vegetable broth. Include a side of lightly cooked
greens like spinach. If you want to explore fermented foods, try kimchi or sauerkraut. Keep
it balanced. Keep it intentional. You don't have to do it perfectly. You don't have to love every
food. Just try. Be kind to yourself. Remember, you're not doing this to look younger. You're
doing it to feel better, to live with more energy, more strength, and more peace in your body.
Most of all, to remind yourself that you are still in motion. You are still growing, still becoming,
because the truth is there's something beautiful about getting older when we choose to do it with
grace. As we close this video, I want to leave you with a thought. Takashima Mika didn't start her
health journey in her 40s or even her 60s. She began in her late 80s. She didn't do it to impress
anyone. She did it for herself, and so can you. You deserve to feel strong. You deserve to feel steady.
You deserve to wake up each morning and say, this is my time. My body is still with me,
and I'm going to take care of it. So if this video touched something in you, if it made you pause,
reflect, or feel a little spark inside, hold on to that. Share it with someone you care about.
And if you're ready to begin, even in the smallest way, then you already have everything you need,
because the choice to age with vitality,
it's not made once. It's made every day, and today is a beautiful day to begin.
