There are five special places in the world, deemed the “blue zones”, that contain the higher number of centenarians in the world. Loma Linda, California….Nicoya, Costa Ria….Sardinia, Italy…Ikaria, Greece…. and Okinawa, Japan are all home to healthiest and oldest living people in the world. How do they do it? What is their secret? In 2012, Dan Buettner set out to answer these questions, and what he found were 9 common things, which he coined the “power 9” that residents do daily to live their longest and best life. Unfortunately, there is no secret potion to live forever, but these 9 lifestyle habits play a key role in longevity:
1. Move Naturally
We all know exercise is beneficial to our mind and body. People living in blue zones are constantly active, but do not belong to any gym. They lead active lifestyles, and rely on their own manual labor to provide for themselves. Tending to gardens, walking/biking from town to town, and lack of technology to do everything for them is what is keeping them moving naturally without double thinking of laying on the couch day after day.
2. Purpose
Why do you wake up in the morning? It is easy to be caught up in what we have to do, but rarely do we remind ourselves what our purpose is on this planet. Whether it is being a good friend, excelling in a career path, or just trying to find happiness, everyone’s purpose in life is valid. People who are constantly reminded of their purpose tend to achieve more of their goals in life.
3. Down Shift
Stress takes a major toll on our body over time. People living in the blue zone have some of the lowest self-reported stress levels in the world. High stress jobs, living environments, and responsibilities can cause us to burn out and lose motivation to do our best work. If you are dealing with chronic stress, think about a change in lifestyle. If stress is unavoidable (as it most often is), do your best to implement stress reduction activities as a daily ritual.
4. 80% Rule
People living in blue zones tend to stop eating when their stomachs are about 80% full. Instead of overeating at one meal and then skipping the next, they maintain a healthy eating routine and maintain a positive relationship with food. Stopping at 80% satiety allows us to appreciate, digest, and decide if we are truly full or still hungry.
5. Wine @ 5
Moderate and responsible drinking is practiced in all 5 blue zone locations around the world. Drinking 1 or 2 glasses of red wine a day is proven to have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system, as well as helping reduce overall stress.
6. Plant Slant
A plant based diet works wonders for the mind and body. Fruits and vegetables are high in micronutrients, which help to lower cholesterol, convert food into energy and manage blood pressure. Eating animal-based products are allowed but should be on the periphery of a plant-based diet. The main source of protein from plant-based diets are beans, and they do eat meat it is typically 3-4 ounces (half of a typical portion). Anything grown naturally, especially fruits and vegetables tend to be the base of a centenarian’s diet.
7. Belonging
While faith or religion has not been proven to significantly affect a person’s health, it is still an important part of the blue zone lifestyle. Almost all people living in a blue zone contain a strong spiritual connection. Being affiliated with a religion is not necessary either. It’s generally the sense of “belonging” one has about themselves and the world around them. Feeling connected and valued by others is one thing that keeps blue zone residents thriving into their 100s.
8. Cherishing Loved Ones
In blue zone areas, immediate and extended family relationships are the core of social interaction. Families live together or within close proximity to each other. Grandchildren care for sick elders and Grandparents nurture the young. Respect for each family position and a close bond play a huge role in the life of centenarians.
9. Right Tribe
The oldest/healthiest humans on the planet do not subject themselves to toxic friendships or social relationships. Choosing friends who will bring out the best in you, rather than bring you down, is a key component to living a long, happy, and healthy life.
