· By Natalia Nordstrom
Wellness Hacks from the Healthiest People Alive
Some of the healthiest, longest-living communities live in areas around the world called The Blue Zones. These regions, identified by Dan Buettner and his team, include places like Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Nicoya, Costa Rica; Ikaria, Greece; and Loma Linda, California. The centenarians in these regions have unique lifestyles and habits that contribute to their exceptional longevity and well-being.
Here are some of their top wellness tips:
Restful Sleep
Prioritizing sleep is a common practice among Blue Zone centenarians. They often follow natural light cycles, going to bed early and waking up with the sun. Adequate and restful sleep is essential for their overall health and longevity.
Plant-Based Diet
Centenarians in the Blue Zones consume a diet that is primarily plant-based. Their meals are rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, with minimal processed foods.
Moderate Caloric Intake
The concept of "hara hachi bu" from Okinawa, which means to eat until you are 80% full. This practice of moderation helps prevent overeating and obesity, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Regular Physical Activity
Whether it's gardening, walking, or engaging in daily chores, these centenarians stay active without engaging in strenuous exercise. This regular, low-intensity activity helps maintain their health and mobility.
Strong Social Connections
Community and family are at the heart of Blue Zone living. They have strong social networks and maintain close relationships with family and friends.
Purpose and Meaning
Whether it's through work, volunteering, or spiritual practices, they find reasons to get up in the morning, which contributes to their longevity and happiness.
Stress Reduction
Low stress is the key to longevity and optimal wellness. Practices like meditation, deep breathing, and spending time in nature are often practiced among these groups.
Lifelong Learning
This could be through reading, playing musical instruments, or learning new skills. Lifelong learning helps keep their brains active and may reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Gratitude and Positivity
Cultivating gratitude and maintaining a positive outlook are key aspects of the Blue Zone lifestyle.