I don’t typically feature content from other websites, but I have to admit that I’m a “health nut” and I’m fascinated by the theory of “Blue Zones” and how to live a healthy lifestyle. Secrets of people who live long, healthy lives are discussed in the article I link to below.  Blue Zones are certain towns or regions throughout the world where residents are happier and healthier. In order to qualify, there must be an unusually high number of centenarians—people living to over 100 in the area. 

The following article not only identifies where these Blue Zones exist, but also details how the people in the most recognized Blue Zones live their lives. 

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​The #1 lesson revealed is all of these healthy people regularly exercise. This is great news for us middle age runners.  Other benefits of regular exercise, not just running, include:

• It can Make You Feel Happier
• It can Help Your Brain Health and Memory. 
• It can Help With Sleep Quality.
• It reduces your risk of heart diseases.
• Helps you manage blood sugar and insulin levels.
• It can Help With Weight Loss.
• It Can Increase Your Energy Levels. 

I think two other keys to longevity are healthy eating (the article discusses the benefits of swaying towards a Plant Based Diet) & sleep. 

A plant based diet has been proven to reduce your risk of heart disease, certain cancers, obesity, diabetes and even slow cognitive decline.

The article doesn’t specifically reveal sleep as a lesson learned from those in the Blue Regions, but I have to believe that they have a history of getting 8+ hours per night.  Research shows that consistently getting seven to eight hours of sleep per night is beneficial for adults. Poor sleep is strongly linked to weight gain, which is consistent with findings showing sleep-deprived individuals have a bigger appetite and tend to eat more.

Click here to get more lessons learned from people in these Blue Zones.