Blue Zones

Lessons for Living Longer

For the past eight years Dan Buettner, the Blue Zones team of scientists, and National Geographic researchers have explored five places around the world where people live measurably longer lives: the interior of Sardinia, a remote peninsula in Costa Rica, a Greek island, a Japanese archipelago, and a community in southern California.

The secret to longevity has less to do with diet—or even exercise—and more to do with the social and physical environment in which people live. Buettner identified nine powerful yet simple lessons that debunk the most common myths and offer a science-backed blueprint that could give the average American another 12 quality years of life.

The Power 9 ™ from The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer From the People Who’ve Lived the Longest:

1. Keep moving
Find ways to move naturally, such as walking and gardening, using fewer laborsaving devices.

2. Find purpose
And pursue it with passion.

3. Slow down
Work less, rest, and take vacations.

4. Stop eating …
… when you're 80 percent full.

5. Dine on plants
Eat more veggies and less meat and processed foods.

6. Drink red wine
Do it consistently but in moderation.

7. Join a group
Create a healthy social network.

8. Feed your soul
Engage in spiritual activities.

9. Love your tribe
Make family a high priority.