BLUE ZONE RESEARCH
The concept of a Blue Zone is defined by personal longevity, good mental and physical health and the contentedness of the people who dwell there. The original Blue Zones are Okinawa (Japan), Sardinia (Italy), Nicoya (Costa Rica), Ikaria (Greece), and Loma Linda (California). These were certified by Dan Buettner, as part of Brown University (RI)'s research on longevity (2005)
Other areas have been nominated as Blue Zones because they support the Blue Zone Outcomes, but may not be ‘certifiable’ Blue Zones by the research definition
The seven generally accepted characteristics of a Blue Zone are:
1. Clean air
2. Pure water and balanced, organic diet: 95% non - meat protein
3. Mindfulness culture: Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation
4. “Stilling” engagements: eg Painting, Reading, Knitting, Modelling, Singing
5. Natural rhythms : Gardening, Walking, Activity, Cooking
6. Social Engagement
7. Sense of Purpose
Bibliography
https://www.brownhealth.org/be-well/live-longer-and-healthier-blue-zone-lifestyle