What is a Blue Zone?

Many of us dream of living a long, healthy life, perhaps reaching our 90s without battling chronic diseases.

But what if this isn’t just wishful thinking? According to a comprehensive study led by Dan Buettner, BA, and Sam Skemp, BA, and first published online on July 7, 2016, titled “Blue Zones: Lessons From the World’s Longest Lived”, this dream could be closer to reality than we think.

Their research unveiled a startling truth: only about 20% of how long the average person lives is determined by genetics. The remaining 80%? It’s all down to our lifestyle.

Buettner and his team identified five specific areas worldwide with the highest number of centenarians – people who live to or beyond the age of 100.

These areas, christened as “Blue Zones,” were pinpointed using a combination of epidemiological data, statistical analysis, birth certificates, and meticulous research.

Remarkably, these zones show rates of centenarians that are 10 times greater than those in the United States.

To understand the secrets of these zones, a specialized team comprising anthropologists, demographers, epidemiologists, and researchers delved deep into the lifestyles of the residents.

What they discovered was fascinating: regardless of their geographical location, the lifestyles of all Blue Zone inhabitants shared nine specific characteristics, aptly named the “Power 9.”

These characteristics aren’t just incidental; they form the backbone of a lifestyle that fosters longevity, health, and happiness.

Blue Zones in the World & the “Power 9” Principles

In his groundbreaking study, Dan Buettner and his team identified five remarkable areas around the globe where people live extraordinarily long and healthy lives. These Blue Zones are:

• Loma Linda in California, USA
• Nicoya in Costa Rica
• Sardinia in Italy
• Ikaria in Greece
• And Okinawa in Japan.

Each of these zones not only boasts a high percentage of centenarians but also offers invaluable insights into living a long and fulfilling life.

At the heart of their longevity are the “Power 9” principles, nine lifestyle habits that are common across these diverse regions.

These aren’t complex medical interventions but simple, everyday practices that anyone can incorporate into their lives:

1. Move Naturally: In Blue Zones, physical activity isn’t a chore but a natural part of daily life, like gardening or walking.
2. Purpose: Having a reason to wake up each day, known as Ikigai in Okinawa or Plan de Vida in Nicoya, adds up to seven years of extra life expectancy.
3. Downshift: Regular routines to reduce stress are vital, whether it’s ancestor remembrance, prayer, napping, or enjoying a happy hour.
4. 80% Rule: Eating mindfully and stopping when 80% full helps maintain a healthy weight.
5. Plant Slant: A diet centered around beans and lentils, with limited meat consumption.
6. Wine @ 5: Moderate, regular consumption of wine, particularly with friends or food, can be beneficial.
7. Belong: Being part of a faith-based community adds years to life.
8. Loved Ones First: Prioritizing family, including caring for aging relatives and investing in relationships, enhances longevity.
9. Right Tribe: Surrounding oneself with a social circle that supports healthy behaviors positively influences longevity.