Fit is Freedom with Kelly Howard
Health & Fitness:Fitness
This is the first episode in a three-part series that takes a deep dive into the Blue Zones. If you haven’t heard of the Blue Zones, they are particular regions around the world where people tend to live longer than average. Many researchers have studied these areas, and as someone who dedicates so much time to health and fitness, I find myself completely fascinated!
Join me on this episode of the Fit is Freedom Podcast as I explore the big trends of how people in the Blue Zones live and share how we can use them as inspiration to improve our lives no matter where we live!
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9 Steps to Emulate Blue Zones
Most of us don’t live in the Blue Zones. As a matter of fact, some of us live in places that make it really hard to picture living in a Blue Zone. However, there are things we can do and small adjustments we can make to increase our similarities no matter where we are.
- Movement
Most of the Blue Zone areas have elevation variations. If you live somewhere with a variety of elevations, use that to your advantage with your movements. If you don’t, then simply incorporate more intentional movement into your life. It’s important to move with purpose and keep moving, so try that no matter where you are.
- Purpose
It’s also incredibly important to have a purpose. There are a variety of ways to feel fulfilled, whether that is taking care of others, volunteering, or working at a job that “fills your cup.” No matter what it is, try to find something to give your life more purpose and meaning.
- Wind Down
Take time to slow down. Whether that’s meditating or going on a walk, find ways that help you to feel relaxed and lower your worries and stresses.
- Listening
I don’t mean in the literal sense. When I say listening, I mean listening to your body’s natural cues. People in the Blue Zones know how to listen to their bodies and stop eating when they’re full.
- Plant-Based
Most people assume that the people in the Blue Zones all have similar diets. That’s not entirely true. However, it is true that the majority of their diets consist of plant-based foods. So, if you want to emulate the people in the Blue Zones, look for ways to increase the plant-based items in your own diet.
- Wine
This one is a bit controversial. Depending on your beliefs, ability to handle alcohol, and more, wine may not be a best fit for you, but it was something that was found in all the Blue Zones. Personally, I think the wine drinking had more to do with community and a sense of belonging to a group than the actual beverage.
- Belonging
Speaking of belonging, people in these zones had a sense of belonging. For most, that was centered around a particular faith or higher power that gave their life meaning beyond this life on earth.
- Family First
In the U.S., this priority seems to be shifting a bit, but the people in the Blue Zones typically put their families first. In the United States, so many people move away from their families for work and other big opportunities, which can make it a little more challenging to be more family-centric like the people in the zones.
- Being Selective
Lastly, it’s important to have the right tribe. Have you ever heard people say you are the sum of the people you surround yourself with? Well, this seems to hold some weight. Be intentional with who you spend your time with and make sure that they have similar values and goals.
Three Suggestions to Get Started
If you want to be more like the people in the Blue Zones, you can’t just magically change your life to match all of the items above. Here are three suggestions I have for you to start shifting your life in the right direction…
- Pick one of the nine items above to focus on. This isn’t a magical fix. This is a lifetime journey. Start small and pick just one before. Once you master that adjustment, pick another and keep moving forward.
- Find some new and exciting recipes.
- Reach out to somebody. There is a lot of research that ties life expectancy with the quality of relationships. Take some time today and reach out to a friend and build a connection.
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