What Blue Zones Can Teach Us About Living Well
Have you ever wondered why some people live longer, healthier and happier lives? In certain areas of the world, known as Blue Zones, people routinely live to 100 or beyond - vibrant, active, and full of life. The question is, what are they doing differently?
I binge-watched ‘Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones’ on Netflix recently. The beauty of Blue Zone living is that the secrets aren’t complex, unattainable, or reserved for an elite few. They are rooted in simple, daily habits that nurture the body, mind, and spirit. These life-affirming practices align beautifully with the spiritual principles we often discuss.
1. Move Naturally - Daily
In Blue Zones, people don’t exercise in gyms or punish their bodies with rigorous routines. They move - naturally and often. Walking, gardening, or cycling form the rhythm of their daily lives. It’s a sacred reminder to honour the body’s need for flow, much like the energy in our Reiki practices. We can invite natural movement into our day by stretching, taking walks in nature, or dancing freely.
2. Eat Until You’re 80% Full
This ancient wisdom, practiced in Okinawa, Japan, teaches us the value of conscious eating. Rather than stuffing themselves, people in Blue Zones eat slowly and mindfully stopping when they’re around 80% full. This leaves room for the body to fully digest and energise without feeling sluggish. Eating mindfully is an act of love for our body - trusting it to tell you when it has had enough. It’s important to pause now and again during a meal and notice how our body is feeling.
3. Plant-Based Diet with Occasional Meat
People who live in Blue Zones tend to enjoy a plant-based diet rich in beans, grains, vegetables, and fruits, with only occasional meat. This isn’t about restriction however, it’s about nourishment, filling the plate with vibrant, life-giving foods that are delicious and colourful to look at.
4. Purpose - Know Why You Wake Up
In Blue Zones, people have a strong sense of purpose. Whether it’s caring for family, contributing to the community, or simply enjoying the beauty of life, they wake up with intention. In Japanese culture, this is known as ‘ikigai’ which translates to ‘your reason for being’. Knowing your purpose or our spiritual calling fills us with vitality.
5. Relaxation and Stress Reduction
Chronic stress takes years off our lives. Blue Zone dwellers have built-in rituals for relaxation. In Sardinia, Italy, people take naps. In Ikaria, Greece, it’s about slowing down with daily tea breaks. These moments of peace allow the body to release tension, promoting longevity. To emulate this, we can consider adding relaxation rituals into our day, perhaps through a short power nap, stopping to mindfully drink some herbal tea, meditate, pray or do a few minutes of energy healing.
6. Faith and Spiritual Practice
A strong connection to the divine is a common thread in Blue Zone cultures. Whether it’s attending a place of worship, meditating, or holding sacred space in their homes, the people living in these regions nurture their spiritual connection. This practice brings them peace, fosters community, and instils a deep sense of belonging.
7. Community and Loved Ones First
In Blue Zones, family and community are the heart of life. People prioritise close-knit bonds, surrounding themselves with love and support. This deep sense of belonging doesn’t just fill the heart, it extends their life. These communities create environments where loneliness doesn’t stand a chance. It’s important to seek and find our tribe.
We all have the power to integrate these Blue Zone habits into our own lives if we start small and act with intention. When we move our body, nurture our spirit and create deeper connections we can align with the rhythms of nature and activate a life of purpose, love, and vibrant health.
Remember, longevity isn’t just about living more years, it’s about living each day with meaning, joy and connection.
With love and light
Gwen x
