Blue Zones -- Greece -- National Geographic

Ikaría at Dusk
Photograph by Gianluca Colla
On the remote Greek island of Ikaría, people reach age 90 at several times the rate they do in the U.S. Instances of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes are significantly lower, and dementia is rare. Dan Buettner traveled to Ikaría with a team of longevity experts to discover what makes this island one of the world’s Blue Zones.
The topography of the island, pictured here at dusk, makes physical activity a necessary part of the Ikarían lifestyle. Residents burn calories merely by walking from one place to another many times a day.
Greens and Herbal Teas
Photograph by Gianluca Colla
A woman pauses by potted herbs on Ikaría. Researchers have found that herbal teas and more than a hundred varieties of antioxidant-rich wild greens play a large role in the Ikarían diet. Some of the herbal teas commonly consumed by Ikaríans act as mild diuretics that could lower blood pressure.
Mediterranean Diet
Photograph by Gianluca Colla
A family gathers for a traditional Easter meal on Ikaría. The Ikarían diet is made up of plenty of seasonal fruits and vegetables, beans, fish, and olive oil. These staples make it similar to the Mediterranean diet, which can reduce the chances of heart disease and prolong life expectancy by about six years.
Slowing Down
Photograph by Gianluca Colla
Work on Ikaría doesn’t always follow a set schedule. In general, Ikaríans have a low sense of time urgency. Few wear watches, and late arrivals are socially acceptable. Slowing down as a matter of lifestyle has been shown to reduce arthritis and other aging ailments. Here, a beekeeper checks on honeybees.
Family Traditions
Photograph by Gianluca Colla
Family and friends celebrate a wedding on Ikaría. Ikaríans have preserved a traditional lifestyle that maintains the importance of family and strong social connections. Children might see a grandparent every day, an arrangement that improves the health and well-being of both the younger and older generations.
Lifestyle for Longevity
Photograph by Gianluca Colla
The lifestyle of Ikaríans like Eleftheria Gaglia (above) has helped them become some of the longest-lived people in the world. Even the tradition of the afternoon nap may contribute to such longevity. Daily naps have been shown to lower the risk of heart disease and the likelihood of depression—and to increase happiness.