Living to the age of 100 is a milestone many aspire to, but few achieve. But what if the path to longevity is not in the latest fad diet or superfood but in our social connections and lifestyle choices? Research from ‘Blue Zones’ sheds light on this fascinating connection between whole-person wellbeing and longevity.
See the Telegraph article: How to Live to 100: You don’t need a new diet – you need new friends. 15th October, ByBoudicca Fox-Leonard.
The Enigma of the Blue Zones
Dan Buettner, the explorer behind the Netflix series on ‘Blue Zones’, has spent decades unravelling the mysteries of longevity. His research took him to places like Okinawa, Nicoya, Ikaria, Sardinia, Loma Linda, and recently, Singapore. These locations, termed ‘Blue Zones’, are home to an unusually high number of centenarians. Interestingly, the inhabitants of these areas don’t just live longer but also have a lower incidence of chronic diseases.
The Secret Sauce of Longevity
While many in the West search for the magic potion for long life, Buettner found that the secret lies in simple, everyday habits. Contrary to the modern obsession with dieting, gym memberships, and supplements, people in the Blue Zones live an unpretentious life. They never set out with the goal to live a long time; they just do. Their lives are intertwined with a sense of social connection, purpose, and a low-stress outlook. Physical activity isn’t a scheduled chore; it’s seamlessly integrated into their daily routine.
Diet also plays a significant role. Though the specific foods vary between the Blue Zones, they all have diets that are predominantly plant-based, rich in whole grains, greens, tuberous vegetables, nuts, and beans.
Social Connections and Longevity
One of the most striking findings from Buettner’s research is the importance of social connections. He emphasises the profound impact our circle of friends can have on our health and longevity. If your close friends lead an active, healthy lifestyle, there’s a higher probability that you will too. Buettner even suggests proactively seeking acquaintances with healthy habits, emphasising the long-term benefits of such associations.
Lessons for the World
The lessons from the Blue Zones are clear – longevity is not just about the number of years you live but the quality of those years. It’s about leading a life filled with purpose, joy, social connections, and overall wellbeing.
While the geographical and climatic conditions of the Blue Zones play a part in their lifestyle, Buettner believes their principles can be applied globally. It’s not just about eating fresh fruits and vegetables; it’s about the broader spectrum of foods that are nutritious and delicious. Foods like the Costa Rican ‘three sisters’ dish of beans, squash, and corn, or the Mediterranean’s beans and pasta, all play a part in a balanced diet.
Concluding Thoughts
As the world grapples with rising rates of chronic diseases and decreasing life expectancies in some regions, the Blue Zones offer a beacon of hope. They provide a roadmap for a life that is not just long but also rich in experiences, connections, and joy.
To further delve into this concept of living longer and better, Sir Muir Grey’s “living longer better course” offers valuable insights. The former Chief Knowledge Officer for the NHS has developed this well-being course to demonstrate how anyone over 60 should make active lifestyle changes to live longer and better. For those interested, use the coupon code “LIFEPLAN20” to avail a 20% discount.
In the end, longevity and whole-person wellbeing aren’t about the latest trends or scientific breakthroughs. They’re about going back to basics, prioritising connections, and embracing the simple joys of life. As Buettner aptly puts it, it’s about “finding it at home, with our friends and in our gardens.”
By Steve Conley, Founder of the Academy of Life Planning and author of YOUR MONEY OR YOUR LIFE: UNMASK THE HIGHWAY ROBBERS – ENJOY WEALTH IN EVERY AREA OF YOUR LIFE!
Academy of Life Planning 