I am currently reading Blue Zones: 9 Lessons for Living Longer. What’s a blue zone you might ask? It’s a place on the planet where there is a high concentration of centenarians (people who are 100+ years old). I just finished the chapter on Okinawa, one of the blue zones highlighted. Here are longevity tips specific to Okinawa:
- Embrace an ikigai
- Rely on a plant-based diet
- Get gardening
- Eat more soy
- Maintain a moai (a social support group)
- Enjoy the sunshine
- Stay active
- Plant a medicinal garden
- Have an attitude
As I read about each blue zone, I am trying to think of how I can incorporate at least one longevity lesson that I don’t currently practice into my life. In the book, they talk about how Goya, or more commonly known in the U.S. as bitter melon, is something that grows in Okinawa and is consumed often. Apparently, it’s high in antioxidants and compounds that lower blood sugar. I have decided to start there. Any ideas on how to prepare bitter melon? I was thinking of trying to add it to a smoothie.
More importantly, have you successfully incorporated any of these longevity lessons into your life? How has it changed your practice?
