There are five Blue Zones on this planet. The Blue Zones are regions where people live significantly longer, often reaching the age of 100 or more. These places are Ikaria, Greece; Okinawa, Japan; Loma Linda, California; Sardinia, Italy; and Nicoya, Costa Rica. I feel incredibly fortunate to have traveled to one of them, Nicoya, Costa Rica.
Driving along Nicoya’s winding roads, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant wildlife, I couldn’t help but think, this is paradise. The term Blue Zone was named by Dan Buettner to describe these longevity hotspots, where people thrive well into old age. Their secrets include a life deeply connected to nature, rich in movement, and fueled by whole, plant-based foods. More than just diet and exercise, longevity in these regions is a way of living that’s rooted in strong community ties and a deep sense of purpose.
If you’re curious about the flavors of these regions, I highly recommend The Blue Zones Kitchen by Dan Buettner. This stunning cookbook, created in collaboration with National Geographic, captures the essence of Blue Zone living through beautiful photography and traditional recipes passed down through generations. During the COVID pandemic, I had the opportunity to cook some of these meals with friends. Even in a time of uncertainty, we found comfort in shared meals and meaningful conversations, which was an experience that reflects a core principle of Blue Zones, the importance of community.
Visiting Nicoya and connecting with its people gave me a firsthand glimpse into the secrets of a long, fulfilling life. My goal is to continue traveling to other Blue Zones and all over the world, learning from the people who live there, and sharing their wisdom with others. A key aspect of longevity is having a reason for being or purpose, and I feel that is my purpose to go on this journey and share insights from my experiences and my travels.
As I continue my journey, I hope to uncover more insights into the art of living well and embracing longevity, connection, and purpose every step of the way.
