Longevity Principles

MOVE MORE

Find creative ways to move throughout the day!

The world’s longest-lived people don’t pump iron, run marathons or join gyms. Instead, they live in environments that constantly nudge them into moving without thinking about it. They grow gardens and don’t have mechanical conveniences for house and yard work.

LIVE ON PURPOSE

The Okinawans call it “Ikigai” and the Nicoyans call it “plan de vida;” for both it translates to “why I wake up in the morning.” Live each day “on purpose” and add 7 years to your life. 

UNWIND

What the world’s longest-lived people have that we don’t are routines to shed that stress. Okinawans take a few moments each day to remember their ancestors, Adventists pray, Ikarians take a nap and Sardinians do happy hour.

Alleviate stress through healthy habits. Make it a daily habit.

PLANT SLANT

Lean in to eating plants! Put more fruits and vegetables on your plate. Don’t stuff yourself and enjoy with gratitude.

Beans, including fava, black, soy and lentils, are the cornerstone of most centenarian diets. Meat—mostly pork—is eaten on average only five times per month. Serving sizes are 3-4 oz., about the size of deck or cards.

CONNECT

Social isolation may be one of the biggest impacts on human mortality. Blue Zones area centenarians prioritize social support like they do their work, scheduling social time with friends on a regular basis, while enjoying healthy drinks, snacks, and movement.

Surround yourself with people who support positive behaviors, participate in your faith and value loving relationships.

FAMILY FIRST

Successful centenarians in the Blue Zones put their families first. This means keeping aging parents and grandparents nearby or in the home (It lowers disease and mortality rates of children in the home too.). They commit to a life partner (which can add up to 3 years of life expectancy) and invest in their children with time and love (They’ll be more likely to care for you when the time comes).

POSTIVE OUTLOOK

Create happiness wherever you are with gratitude and mindfulness.