The Litmus Test of Vitality: A 10-Second Health Check

A top cardiologist is promoting a simple “litmus test” to measure your body’s underlying vitality. Just as litmus paper reveals acidity, the 10-second, one-legged stand reveals your physiological state, with a positive result indicating a high potential for a long and healthy life.
This health litmus test was effectively validated in a large-scale 2022 study of 1,700 adults. The research showed that the “color” of one’s balance—steady or shaky—was a powerful indicator of their long-term health and mortality risk.
The results were clear. A “positive” reading—passing the 10-second test—was associated with a greater than 90% probability of seven more years of vibrant, disability-free life. A “negative” reading suggested an underlying imbalance that needed to be addressed.
The cardiologist explains that this is because vitality is not just about energy; it’s about the seamless integration of all your body’s systems. The balance test is a direct measure of this integration. A failure indicates that your systemic vitality is compromised.
If your litmus test shows a negative result, you can change your body’s chemistry. The expert recommends a “treatment” of targeted exercise. She suggests practices like Tai Chi and yoga to restore your body’s natural equilibrium, improve your vitality, and turn your results positive.