Amid the average human lifespan of 70 to 80 years, Qiu Chaishi of Nanchong, Sichuan Province, has defied expectations, celebrating her 124th birthday on January 1, 2025. Born in 1901, Qiu’s life has spanned more than a century of monumental changes, from the Qing Dynasty to modern China. While her age hasn’t been verified internationally, China’s household registration system, hukou, confirms her birthdate, as reported by The Star.
Qiu’s family, encompassing six generations, is a testament to her remarkable journey. Her descendants range from a 60-year-old granddaughter to an eight-month-old great-grandchild. For her family and community, she symbolizes resilience, perseverance, and the rewards of a disciplined lifestyle.
Qiu has witnessed the transformation of China, enduring significant hardships along the way. During the Qing Dynasty, she experienced famine and poverty, often searching for wild vegetables to survive. Before marriage, she was known in her village for her accounting skills and physical strength, managing demanding farm tasks with ease.
Tragedy struck in her 40s when her husband died suddenly, leaving her to raise four children alone. Despite this, she remained resolute, later raising her granddaughter as her own after her daughter-in-law remarried. Her life has been marked by loss, including the death of her eldest son, yet she has remained steadfast and optimistic.
Secrets to Longevity
Qiu credits her long life to a simple but disciplined lifestyle. She enjoys three meals daily, followed by short walks to aid digestion, and adheres to a strict bedtime of 8 PM. Her diet includes porridge with pumpkin, winter melon, and crushed corn, as well as her favorite lard rice, though now consumed in moderation on her doctor’s advice.
Even at 124, Qiu remains active. She can manage light tasks like combing her hair, lighting fires, and feeding geese, and she navigates stairs without assistance. Her sense of humor and wit remain sharp. Reflecting on her extraordinary life, she quips, “The King of Hell must have forgotten about me!”
Nanchong, Qiu’s hometown, is notable for its high number of centenarians about 960. This longevity is attributed to the region’s unique environment, communal practices, and balanced lifestyles. The area’s diet, social cohesion, and traditions foster an environment where people thrive well into their later years.
Qiu’s story serves as an inspiration, underscoring the power of a positive outlook and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. Her life is not only a personal triumph but also a window into the cultural and environmental factors that support extraordinary longevity.
As Qiu continues to live a life that defies conventional boundaries, she stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, proving that with the right mindset and lifestyle, the journey of life can extend far beyond what many imagine.
