I recently visited the town of Nosara, located in one of the five “Blue Zones” of the world, the Nicoya peninsula region of Costa Rica. According to National Geographic explorer and author, Dan Buettner, people who live in Blue Zones live long, healthy lives – up to around 100 years! Other “Blue Zones” are in Okinawa Japan, Sardinia Italy, Icaria Greece, and Loma Linda California.
What is a Blue Zone and Why is it Rare?
What makes Blue Zones a hub of incredible health and longevity is surprisingly simple! Dan Buettner’s research indicates that people living in these regions eat mostly plant-based diets, are physically active, have strong connections with others, and have a purpose for their life.
If living a Blue Zone life is so simple, why are there so few regions in the world with this designation? For many of us who live and work in a fast-paced world, simple can be a stretch! Eating home-made, plant-based meals, exercising, staying connected with friends and family, and living with purpose, all take time and intention to cultivate.
My Trip to the Blue Zone of Costa Rica
The most prominent Blue Zone features of Nosara that I experienced were the obvious and beautiful flora and fauna, and of course, the food! The rich biodiversity makes it easy to enjoy delicious, local foods. Traditional recipes make seemingly simple dishes of rice and beans come alive with unique spice blends. Local produce and herbs become immune-boosting, freshly-made tonics and smoothies or a road-side snack. My favorite? “Pipa fria” – coconut water straight from chilled, “pipa”, or young coconuts. And the coffee is out of this world – no cream or sugar needed!
The Blue Zone area in Nosara is also a remote jungle that was only introduced to modern conveniences such as roads and telephones, in the 1960s. Being a city girl, there was quite a bit for me to get used to. Not all of the roads are paved, leaving them susceptible to damage and quite a mess to walk through when it rains. The power sometimes goes out. There are no street lamps or addresses on the buildings. And the howler monkeys will wake you up promptly at 5:30 a.m. On the other hand, the lack of street lights allowed me to see how the stars fill the sky. And I found myself hoping the howlers would wake me up early so I could see the sunrise, and set my circadian rhythm. Just a few examples how viewing inconveniences through the lens of opportunity can help create a unique and rich tapestry of life.
Bring the Blue Zone Home
Getting to Nosara wasn’t easy and so for me, I doubt I’ll return. But my trip there did reveal some ways we can all benefit from living life the Blue Zone way, even if we never make that trek.
For starters: food. Experiment with different combinations of local, low-processed, plant-based meals. Chefs have told me that their best dishes are the result of many previous “failed attempts” in the kitchen. To fast track to a delicious meal, check out cookbooks from your local library or get ideas from friends, family, or your favorite social media ‘foodie’.
Next: weave in movement. Without trying, I nearly doubled my usual daily step count while in Nosara. Most people walk or bike around the town, which also boasts several beautiful beaches and attracts surfers of all levels. While you might not be able to take up surfing or walk everywhere, aim to find ways to be more active throughout the day. Consider taking lessons to learn a new sport or plan to walk up for lunch or to run an errand.
Then: connect in meaningful ways. When the power went out, or when I was at the beach without a book, I had to become comfortable without technology or my to-do list. So, instead of thinking of something to do, I decided to embrace the present moment and just be. I learned how to shift from doing nothing to being someone. I remember reading about this concept in the past and that it made sense, sounded logical. But when I lived through it, I also felt it in my soul. This lesson of being mindful, being grateful, being aware of yourself and your purpose, and being connected with God and others who can help you get there.
Simply Powerful
Traveling to and through the town of Nosara – as through life – showed me that purpose, people, and a positive mindset can result in a full and rich life. Start with a strong plan to eat well and move more throughout the day. Add a sprinkle of patience. Be willing to help – and be helped – so we all reach our destinations. And along the way, keep your eyes open to all you are grateful for. May these simple, yet powerful, insights help you experience the Blue Zone life, no matter where you live.