长寿 is a hugely important concept in Chinese culture. 长寿面 (chángshòu miàn, longevity noodles) are eaten on birthdays — the long, unbroken noodles symbolize a long life. You must never cut them!
usage
寿命 (shòumìng) = lifespan. 长寿村 (chángshòu cūn) = longevity village. The 寿 character is a common motif in Chinese art and decoration, especially at birthday celebrations.
