Blue Zones-Part I
“There is more wisdom in your body than the deepest philosophy.” -Friedrich Nietzche
As the life expectancy in the United States continues to decrease, mostly due to the SAD I (Standard American Diet of fast and processed food) and a sedentary lifestyle, there are many geographic locations where cultural and environmental practices facilitate greater life expectancy to well beyond age 90 and even into the 100s. Centenarians, people who are 100 years old or more, share some common threads. They typically live free from major age-related diseases related to SAD II (Standard American Diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease), until well into their lifespan. These cultures enjoy a long healthy lifespan not only live many years, but they live quality years. Just who are these people and what is the key to longevity?
People who live in Blue Zones, a term coined in a National Geographic study over 20 years ago, share common life-enhancing habits. These habits build the foundation for a long and strong life. People eat natural foods and mostly a plant-based diet, they move daily, walking, biking, and gardening, live with less stress, cultivate meaningful relationships, have a life purpose and a deep faith. People in Blue Zones tend to drink tea, coffee, wine, and water as their main beverages. They live life more slowly and simply. Most of these cultures live close to the sea and eat lots of fish and seafood, which are great sources of protein and healthy fats. More on Blue Zones next time….
Hilton Head Island is the perfect environment to create a Blue Zone, with a mild year-round climate, an abundance of outdoor actvities, bike paths, water sports and gardening almost year-round. Being an island on the Atlantic Ocean, there is plenty of fresh fish and seafood. At Luna Therapy, we believe that a healthy lifestyle is the best way to live a long, vibrant, disease-free life. Please join us for the next Luna News Blog to learn more about Blue Zones and for simple ideas to incorporate into your lifestyle.
To your health!!
Ann
