Inah Canabarro Lucas, a Brazilian nun, has been officially recognized as the world’s oldest living person by Guinness World Records. Born in 1908 in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, she is now 116 years and 210 days old, surpassing Japan’s Tomiko Itooka, who passed away in December 2024. Inah is not just the oldest living person but also holds the distinction of being the oldest nun and woman alive today.
Her incredible journey to becoming the world’s oldest person is filled with remarkable stories. When she was born, many doubted she would live long due to her fragile health and small physique. However, she defied all expectations and reached beyond 100 years of age.
In her teenage years, Inah chose to dedicate her life to spirituality. After completing her education at Santa Teresa de Jesus boarding school, she became a teacher of Portuguese and mathematics. Eventually, she took vows to become a nun, committing herself to a life of faith and service.
The Secret to Longevity: What We Can Learn from Inah Canabarro Lucas
Inah’s life is a testament to resilience, purpose, and faith. Her story offers valuable lessons for us all:
- Live with Purpose: Inah dedicated her life to spirituality and service, which gave her a sense of meaning and fulfillment. Finding a purpose, whether it’s through work, family, or faith, can lead to a richer, longer life.
- Embrace Simplicity: Inah lived a simple and modest life, focusing on the basics. She found joy in everyday moments rather than material pursuits. Living a balanced and simple life may contribute to both physical and emotional well-being.
- Stay Active Mentally and Physically: Throughout her life, Inah continued to learn, teach, and stay engaged in her community. Staying mentally active and engaged can help keep the mind sharp well into old age.
- Positive Outlook on Life: Despite early doubts about her health, Inah maintained a positive outlook, which helped her thrive. A positive mindset and resilience in the face of challenges are key to longevity.
- Care for Your Body and Soul: Inah’s devotion to her faith likely played an important role in her overall health. Taking time to care for both your body and your inner peace is crucial for a long, healthy life.
The Gift of Time: Why Longevity Matters
Inah Canabarro Lucas’s life is more than just a record. It serves as a reminder that age can be a journey of wisdom, love, and purpose. We should focus on building lives full of meaning, nurturing relationships, and taking care of our bodies and minds. By doing so, we too can aim for not just a long life, but a fulfilling one.