Joan Collins, the legendary actress and Dynasty icon, has captivated audiences for over seven decades. At 93, she continues to exude vitality and grace, leaving many wondering about her secrets to longevity. In an exclusive interview, Collins reveals that her approach to staying healthy and happy is surprisingly simple: a love of life and a few well-guarded habits.
A Love of Life
"I just love life," Collins told The Independent at Variety's Women of Power event. "I wake up every morning and breathe the air, try to get a good night's sleep, drink lots of water and take care of myself." This simple yet profound statement encapsulates her philosophy. Collins believes that embracing each day with gratitude and a positive outlook is the foundation of her vitality.
The Power of Gratitude
In a world where appearances often take center stage, Collins emphasizes that her approach to self-care goes beyond aesthetics. "Looking after myself has always been about much more than appearances," she shared with HELLO!. This is where gratitude comes into play. By focusing on the present moment and appreciating the little things, Collins cultivates a mindset that fosters overall well-being.
Dietary Discipline
One of Collins' strict rules when it comes to her diet is to "never, not before I go to bed, snack." She believes in feeding her body the right fuel, just like a high-performance car. "I'm very fussy about what I eat," she explained. This discipline extends to her exercise routine, which, while low-key, remains consistent. "I work out with my trainer a couple of times a week," she told The Telegraph, "just basic Pilates-type exercises."
The Role of Genetics and Friendship
Collins acknowledges that genetics have played a part in her longevity, citing her father's remarkable lifespan of 87 years. However, she also emphasizes the importance of her marriage to Percy Gibson, whom she wed in 2002. Despite a 32-year age gap, their friendship and mutual respect form the bedrock of their successful union. "He is a really nice, kind, grounded person," she shared. "Many of the people that I've been with have been either neurotic, slightly unbalanced or gotten into different things."
An Enthusiastic Outlook
Collins' enthusiasm for life is not just a trait; it's a guiding principle. "I was born with a tremendous enthusiasm for life," she recalled. "My mother used to say that I never kept still when I was a child." This outlook has served her well, reminding her that life is a precious gift that should not be taken for granted. "Life is a gift," she said. "That's why they call it the present. It's a gift. And so many people waste it. It's so sad. It's a gift, and it does not last very long."
In conclusion, Joan Collins' secrets to longevity are not groundbreaking, but they are powerful. A love of life, gratitude, discipline, and friendship form the core of her approach to staying healthy and happy. As she continues to inspire audiences with her grace and vitality, her philosophy serves as a reminder that true beauty and well-being stem from within.
