Blue zones are places people live to be 100 and have extended, healthier lives. Only one of these is located in the US — Loma Linda, a small city in California. There has been a lot of talk about these places recently, as well as a new Netflix documentary special. These longevity “hotspots” include:
- Ikaria, an island in Greece
- Okinawa, an island in Japan
- Barbagia region of Sardinia Italy
- Loma Linda, California
- Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica.
WHAT ARE KEY LESSONS FROM THE BLUE ZONES?
MOVE NATURALLY
This is not exercising, per se. This is incorporating movement during your day — biking, walking, gardening, and even housework.
EAT WISELY
A vegetable-based diet is the basis of their diet. Meat is eaten in small amounts. A small amount of wine is consumed. People in these zones stop eating when their stomachs are 80% full. Their smallest meal is their dinner.
RIGHT OUTLOOK
Purpose is important. WHY do you wake up in the morning? The Japanese call it “ikigai.” Even without popular treatments, it can add up to 7 years of extra life expectancy.
COMMUNITY
Having close family and friend connections. These are strong social networks. Many blue zones see grandparents and grandchildren close to each other. Many are part of a faith-based community (which can add 4-14 years to life expectancy).
