In order to live better, healthier, and longer, what do we need to do? We are taking a look at the Blue Zones. Blue Zones are regions in the world where people tend to live longer and healthier lives.
These areas have been studied by researchers for their high concentration of centenarians (people who live to be 100 years or older) and their low rates of chronic diseases. Blue is the new silver 😉! Here are the five notable Blue Zone locations:
Table of Contents
1. Loma Linda, California, United States
- Loma Linda is a city located in Southern California.
- The community is primarily made up of Seventh-day Adventists, who follow a vegetarian diet and emphasize healthy living.
- Regular physical activity, such as walking and cycling, is common among residents.
- Loma Linda residents maintain strong social ties within their faith community.
- The emphasis on faith, family, and healthy lifestyle choices contributes to their longevity.
Interesting activities to do:
- Explore the scenic beauty of nearby nature spots like San Bernardino National Forest and Lake Arrowhead.
- Visit the Loma Linda University Church and enjoy the beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.
- Attend a health seminar or wellness workshop offered by Loma Linda University.
- Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and picnicking in the nearby regional parks.
- Check out the local farmers’ markets and health food stores to sample fresh, organic produce.
Foods:
- Vegetarian Cuisine: Loma Linda has a large population of Seventh-day Adventists who follow a vegetarian diet, so you can find a variety of plant-based dishes and meat substitutes in local restaurants and markets.
- Veggie Burgers: Loma Linda is known for its delicious and innovative vegetarian burgers made from plant-based ingredients.
- Whole Grain Breads: Loma Linda residents often consume whole grain breads and baked goods made from nutritious grains like wheat, oats, and rye.
- Fresh Produce: Explore the local farmers’ markets for a wide range of fresh fruits, vegetables, and organic produce.
2. Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
- The Nicoya Peninsula is situated on the western coast of Costa Rica.
- The traditional diet consists of corn tortillas, beans, fruits, vegetables, and small amounts of animal protein.
- The region offers an active lifestyle with agriculture, manual labor, and daily walks as common activities.
- Nicoyans maintain strong social networks and prioritize family connections.
- The warm climate and positive outlook on life contribute to the well-being of the residents.
Interesting activities to do:
- Explore the pristine beaches and enjoy activities like surfing, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
- Visit the town of Nosara, known for its yoga retreats and wellness centers.
- Take a boat tour to Isla Tortuga for snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and beach relaxation.
- Discover the wildlife and nature reserves, such as Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve and Curú Wildlife Refuge.
- Learn about the local culture and crafts in the town of Nicoya.
Foods:
- Gallo Pinto: A popular Costa Rican dish made with rice, black beans, onions, and peppers, often served with eggs and tortillas.
- Ceviche: Fresh fish or seafood marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro.
- Chorreadas: Corn pancakes made with fresh corn kernels, often served with sour cream or cheese.
- Casado: A typical Costa Rican meal consisting of rice, beans, meat or fish, plantains, salad, and tortillas.
- Guanacaste Cuisine: The Nicoya Peninsula is in the Guanacaste province, known for its traditional dishes like tortilla de queso (cheese tortilla) and olla de carne (meat stew).
3. Sardinia, Italy
- Sardinia is an island located in the Mediterranean Sea.
- The traditional Sardinian diet includes whole grains, legumes, goat’s milk, and locally grown vegetables.
- The residents maintain an active lifestyle, often involving farming, shepherding, and walking.
- Sardinians place a strong emphasis on family and maintain close-knit social circles.
- The culture promotes a relaxed attitude and a sense of purpose throughout life.
Interesting activities to do:
- Visit the ancient ruins of Nuraghe Su Nuraxi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Explore the scenic coastal towns of Alghero, Costa Smeralda, and Bosa.
- Hike through the stunning landscapes of Gola Su Gorropu, Europe’s deepest canyon.
- Taste the local cuisine, including pecorino cheese, Sardinian wine, and roasted suckling pig.
- Discover the unique Sardinian craftsmanship, such as traditional weaving and ceramics.
Foods:
- Porceddu: A traditional dish of roasted suckling pig, seasoned with aromatic herbs and served with crispy skin (I’ll spare you the photo of this 😉).
- Malloreddus: A type of Sardinian pasta, often served with tomato sauce, sausage, and grated pecorino cheese.
- Culurgiones: Handmade Sardinian ravioli stuffed with potato, pecorino cheese, and mint, usually served with tomato sauce.
- Pane Carasau: Thin and crispy traditional Sardinian flatbread, often enjoyed with olive oil, herbs, or toppings.
- Cannonau Wine: Sardinia is known for its robust red wines, particularly Cannonau, made from the local Grenache grape variety.
4. Ikaria, Greece
- Located in the Aegean Sea, Ikaria is known for its relaxed lifestyle and strong sense of community.
- The residents follow a Mediterranean diet, rich in olive oil, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
- Physical activity is a part of daily life, with the island’s terrain encouraging walking and gardening.
- The people of Ikaria maintain low-stress levels and prioritize social connections and leisure time.
Interesting activities to do:
- Take a dip in the hot springs of Therma and enjoy their reputed healing properties.
- Visit the picturesque village of Nas, known for its ancient ruins and beautiful hiking trails.
- Attend a local festival or event to experience traditional music, dance, and cuisine.
- Explore the island’s stunning beaches, such as Seychelles Beach and Messakti Beach.
- Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their unique way of life.
Foods:
- Ikarian Longevity Stew: A hearty dish made with local herbs, vegetables, and legumes.
- Spetsofai: A traditional dish consisting of spicy sausage cooked with peppers and tomatoes.
- Wild Greens: Ikaria is known for its abundant wild greens like dandelion, chicory, and fennel, which are often used in salads and cooked dishes.
- Honey and Herbal Teas: Ikaria is renowned for its high-quality honey and herbal teas made from local herbs like sage and chamomile.
- Fresh Seafood: Being an island, Ikaria offers a variety of fresh fish and seafood delicacies.
5. Okinawa, Japan
- Okinawa is a group of islands in southern Japan.
- The Okinawan diet is low in calories and high in nutrient-rich foods like vegetables, tofu, and sweet potatoes.
- The residents engage in regular, moderate physical activity, such as gardening and walking.
- The concept of “ikigai” (having a sense of purpose) is deeply ingrained in the culture.
- Strong social connections and community support contribute to the longevity of Okinawans.
Interesting activities to do:
- Visit Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the Ryukyuan architecture.
- Explore the beautiful beaches and coral reefs for snorkeling or scuba diving.
- Learn about Okinawan culture at the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, home to whale sharks and other marine life.
- Attend a traditional music and dance performance, such as the Eisa Festival.
- Try a martial arts class or participate in a local tea ceremony.
Foods:
- Goya Champuru: A stir-fry dish made with bitter melon, tofu, pork, and various vegetables.
- Soba Noodles: Okinawa is famous for its unique variety of soba noodles made with buckwheat flour and served in a flavorful broth.
- Mozuku: A type of seaweed commonly consumed in Okinawa, often served in salads or as a topping for various dishes.
- Rafute: Slow-cooked pork belly served with a savory sauce, a popular dish in Okinawan cuisine.
- Purple Sweet Potatoes: Okinawa is known for its purple-fleshed sweet potatoes, which are used in a variety of dishes and desserts.
To live better, healthier, and longer we need to take a look at these Blue Zone communities. These unique regions scattered across the globe have shown us that simple lifestyle choices, such as nutritious diets, regular physical activity, strong social connections, and reduced stress, can play a significant role in promoting longevity.
The Blue Zones serve as powerful reminders that the key to a longer life might be found within the simplicity of our daily choices and the nurturing of our connections with others and the world around us.
For more information on the Blue Zones checkout: https://www.bluezones.com/
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I’d like to visit each of the worlds blue zones. We are lucky enough to live part time in one of them – the Nicoya Peninsula.
Hi Carolyn! WOW! You are so fortunate to live in such a rich area of beauty and health!
Hopefully I can get to all of these places! They sound incredible.
Thanks for stopping by, Jade! Yes, so many of them are like paradise!
This was a great article! I had always heard about blue zones but did not know much about them. Thank you!
The Blue Zones have inspired me – lol! I’m glad you stopped by! Thanks, Mettitt!
I’ve never heard of Blue Zones. Interesting. I feel like I need to visit each one now!
Hi Brandi! Yes, I couldn’t agree more with you! Thank you!
This was such a fun read! I just started learning about blue zones the other day but your post is far more comprehensive! It’s so amazing to see how our lives can be impacted by quality of food, lifestyle, and so much more! Can’t wait to visit some of these places!
Thank you so much, Courtney! Yes, food and lifestyle are so important! If I’m going to live to 100, I want to feel good doing it! 😉
How interesting! I had never heard of blue zones. Guess I have to put them all on the travel bucket list now! Haha
Yes, the Blue Zones are beautiful places to visit! Thanks for stopping by, Jackie!
I’ve heard more than enough good things about Costa Rica as I have cousins who have just moved there. This will be added to my bucket list anyway being that I now have family there!
Colette! That’s a real bonus to have family living in Costa Rica! I’d be there in a heartbeat! Thanks!
Never heard about blue zones before. This article has so much information. I would love to visit Greece and Italy. Good article.
Awww, thanks, Sara! The food in Greece and Italy will be amazing, too! Thank you!
Now I want to move hahaha
Ha! I hear ya! Thanks for stopping by!