Once upon a time, in five locations around the globe, people were living longer, healthier, and happier lives. Most were living about 10 years beyond their average life expectancy. And in those years, they were free from chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. They had no need to be concerned with dieting, taking supplements, or going to the gym. Nor were they worried about existential stress, high-risk behaviors, or loneliness. Really? Did places like these ever exist? Could they even be possible?
The answer to all three questions is, yes! In 2004, Dan Buettner, science writer, researcher, and explorer along with a National Geographic team discovered five regions worldwide where residents lived measurably longer and better lives. Once identified, they set out to find out what lifestyle characteristics they all shared.
From my journal: February 16, 2013, Newbury Park, California
“…Nina gave me a copy of ‘The Blue Zones’…very interesting reading!”
The five regions in which people tend to live best are referred to as Blue Zones. Okinawa, Japan has the largest number of women 100 years and older. Sardinia, Italy has the highest concentration of male centenarians. In the Nicoya Peninsula area of Costa Rica, residents often live past 90 years old. On the small island of Ikaria, Greece people have the lowest rates of dementia. And here in the United States, Loma Linda, California is recognized as an area where people have high longevity.
Though vastly different, Buettner and his team analyzed the data collected and were able to pinpoint traits all people in the Blue Zones had in common. Known as the Power 9, I was curious to learn what they were and which, if any, were a part of my daily routine.
- Natural Movement. Moving every 20 minutes or so, they do simple things, like walking, house cleaning, or gardening. They exercise throughout their day with activities that are encouraged by the environment they live in.
- Plant Foods. Consuming a mostly plant-based diet rich in vegetables, legumes, and beans, they only eat small amounts of meat, poultry, or fish about five times per month.
- 80% Rule. Eating only until they feel 80% full prevents overeating and aids in weight management.
- Purpose. Having a purpose, whether it involves volunteering, caring for others, or perhaps traveling, is linked to longevity.
- Destress. Relieving stress through calming activities keeps immune systems strong. They regularly pray, nap, and meditate.
- Tribe. Social networking with their “people” who support healthy behaviors helps them make positive life choices.
- Family First. Making family a priority by living with or close to aging parents and grandparents, committing to a life partner, and investing in their children lowers disease rates.
- Belonging. Connecting with faith-based or civic-based groups improves emotional well-being.
- Wine at 5. Drinking a glass or two of wine each day with others over dinner is true for people in four of the five Blue Zones. For non-drinkers, simply sharing a meal with others is good for the soul.
Were you surprised by any of these habits? How many do you practice? While I’ve been incorporating most of these routines into my life for years, there’s always room for some fine tuning. Perhaps I can boost my consumption of plant-based foods, move more often, or maybe join a new group. Taking a page from the longest living, healthiest, and happiest people in the world, I’ll look for more ways to put the Power 9 to work for me. If you decide to as well…more power to you!
A Journal Journey 