Live Like a Centenarian

A Centenarian is a person who has reached the age of 100 years. Because life expectancies worldwide are below 100 years, the term is invariably associated with longevity. In 2021, the United Nations estimated that there were 573,000 living centenarians worldwide.

Have you ever wondered what the secret is to living a long and healthy life?  In 1999, scientists discovered the world's longest-living populations and the commonalities amongst these unique groups of people.

The research identified five regions in the world with the largest population of individuals 100 years of age or older, collectively called the blue zones.

The inhabitants of these regions engage in similar lifestyle habits, such as consuming a predominantly plant- based diet and focusing on close social relationships.

Overall, there are nine features that are common amongst people living in blue zone areas: 

1. Natural Movement: Such as gardening, walking, and climbing hills and mountains.

2. Sense of Purpose:  Individuals with a purpose in life are goal-driven and move through life with intention.  

3. Stress management: The world's longest living people engage in activities that help manage stress, such as napping, praying, and attending a happy hour with a friend.

4. 80% rule:  People in blue zones tend to avoid overeating by simply eating until their stomachs are about 80% full.

5. Plant-focused diet:  Majority of the people living in blue zone areas eat primarily plant-sourced foods.

6. Wine Consumption:  Most of the people living in blue zone areas enjoy a glass or two of wine with friends and family on a daily basis. 

7. Social Networks:  Centenarians participate in community gatherings that support healthy lifestyle and behaviors.

8. Spirituality:  Most of the people living in blue zone areas belong to a faith-based community and researchers state that attending these weekly services may add between four and fourteen years to life expectancy.

9. Family First:  Family relationships are a top priority for people in blue zone communities.

The people living in blue zone areas are the healthiest, happiest, and longest-living people in the world.