Hollywood legend Ellen Burstyn has revealed the habits she credits for staying energetic and active well into her 90s. Best known for acclaimed roles in The Exorcist and Requiem for a Dream, the 93-year-old actress recently shared that daily movement remains a key part of her routine.
During an appearance on Live with Kelly and Mark, Ellen said she still goes to the gym every day and regularly takes walks around Central Park. She joked that staying active is “how you get to be 93 and still kicking,” drawing cheers from the audience.
Host Kelly Ripa playfully said she often hopes to spot Ellen during her walks in the park. Ellen laughed and told her she would keep an eye out in the future.
Ellen has spoken before about the lifestyle choices that helped her feel younger and stronger. She said the foundation is eating well, exercising, avoiding alcohol, smoking, and drugs, and making a conscious decision to live healthfully after earlier years of bad habits.
Her everyday routine also includes walking her dogs, reading often, attending concerts, and spending quality time with friends. She believes staying mentally and socially engaged is just as important as physical health.
Another major part of her philosophy is gratitude. Ellen said she tries to begin each day by saying “thank you” for being alive, safe, healthy, and still active at her age. She often reminds herself how much she has to appreciate.
Ellen rose to stardom in the 1970s after her Oscar-nominated role in The Exorcist. She later won the Academy Award for Best Actress for Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore and earned another nomination for Requiem for a Dream. Over the years, she has also won a Tony Award and two Emmy Awards.
Even with a busy schedule, Ellen says she makes time for what she calls “shouldless days” — days with no obligations at all. On those days, she only does what she wants, whether that means napping, watching television, or enjoying ice cream. She says it helps silence the inner voice that calls her lazy and reminds her that rest and joy matter too.
