Cecilia Wong, 5th & Glow — 27 Nov 2024
Living to 100: Secrets from Costa Rica's Blue Zone
Today, I want to share something amazing with you. Imagine living to 100, still feeling great, and enjoying life to the fullest. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, for some folks in Costa Rica, it's their everyday reality!
Let me introduce you to Clementina and Agustin. They're not just any couple - they're 91 and 100 years old, respectively. And get this: they're still active, happy, and living life on their own terms. How cool is that?
What's Their Secret?
Clementina and Agustin live in a special place called the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. It's known as a "Blue Zone" - one of only five places in the world where people live way longer than average. And they're not alone - there are over 1,000 people over 90 in their area!
So, what's going on here? Is it something in the water? Well, not exactly. But there are some pretty interesting things about how they live. Let's break it down:
1. They Eat Real, Simple Food
- Forget fancy diets or expensive supplements. The folks in Nicoya keep it simple:
- Lots of rice and beans (yum!)
- Plenty of fresh fruits and veggies
- A little bit of meat, but not much
- Everything's grown locally - no processed stuff
It's like they've been doing farm-to-table before it was cool! And you know what? This simple diet is packed with nutrients that keep their bodies strong and healthy.
2. They Stay Active (Without Going to the Gym)
- Here's the thing: Clementina and Agustin don't hit the gym or do CrossFit. But they're active all day long:
- Tending to their garden
- Walking to visit friends
- Doing household chores
It's not intense exercise, but it keeps them moving. And that's the key - they don't sit around all day.
3. Family and Friends are Everything
In Nicoya, nobody's ever really alone. Families often live together, with grandparents, parents, and kids all under one roof. And neighbors? They're like extended family.
This means older folks always have someone to talk to, laugh with, and share their days. It's like having a built-in support system, 24/7.
4. They Have a Reason to Get Up Every Morning
Even at 100, Agustin isn't just sitting around. He and Clementina have purposes - whether it's taking care of their home, helping with family, or being respected elders in their community. Having this sense of purpose keeps them going strong.
5. Stress? What Stress?
Life moves a bit slower in Nicoya. There's no rush hour traffic or ping of endless emails. People take time to relax, chat with neighbors, and enjoy the moment. Less stress means healthier bodies and minds.
6. Nature is Their Best Friend
Imagine waking up to clean, fresh air every day, surrounded by beautiful nature. That's life in Nicoya. All that sunshine gives them plenty of Vitamin D, and being in nature has a way of making you feel good inside and out.
What Can We Learn?
Now, I know we can't all pack up and move to Costa Rica (though it sounds tempting, right?).
- But we can take some lessons from Clementina, Agustin, and their neighbors:
- Eat more plants, less processed stuff: Try adding more fruits and veggies to your meals.
- Move a little more each day: Maybe take a walk after dinner or dance while doing chores.
- Connect with loved ones: Call a friend, have family dinners, or join a community group.
- Find your purpose: What gets you excited to start your day?
- Slow down: Take a few minutes each day to just breathe and enjoy the moment.
A Little Food for Thought
Here's something interesting: researchers are noticing that younger people in Nicoya are starting to live more like we do - fast food, more stress, less family time. And guess what? They're not as healthy as their grandparents.
It just goes to show that sometimes, the old ways are the best ways. We don't need fancy gadgets or complicated routines to live a long, happy life. It's the simple things that count.
So, what do you think? Could you try living a little more like Clementina and Agustin? Maybe start with a home-cooked meal or a nice walk outside?
I'd love to hear your thoughts! Drop a comment below and let me know which Blue Zone secret you're going to try.
Here's to living our best, longest, happiest lives!
Hugs,
Cecilia
