Nine interconnected lifestyle habits of the world’s most longest-lived people
- Move Naturally: Make physical activity (e.g. walking, gardening) a part of your daily routine so you don’t have to think about. There’s no need for intensive workouts.
- 80% Rule: Stop eating when you’re 80% full. The 20% difference can decide if you gain or lose weight.
- Plant Slant: Eat more beans, vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Meat should be consumed in small amounts, if at all.
- Water Consumption: Drink 3.7 litres of water daily. ( Drinking too much water can lead to water intoxication. To avoid water intoxication, some sources recommend drinking no more than 0.8 to 1.0 liters of water per hour. )
- Purpose: Have a purpose in life. It makes you happier, healthier and helps you live longer.
- Down Shift: Build stress-relieving rituals into your routine so your body can recover.
- Belong: Be part of a spiritual community to improve your well-being and life expectancy.
- Loved Ones First: Make family a priority. Invest in your children so they may reciprocate your love and care.
- Right Tribe: Be surrounded by close friends and people who’ll reinforce your Blue Zone values & habits.
While each of the components is important, the key is to build an ecosystem to integrate all 9 elements habitually into your life. That way they will reinforce one another over the long term.
