Blue Zone living
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I binge-watched the Netflix series Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones. I heard of the Blue Zone phenomenon years ago, when I became interested in the concept of "ikigai" developed in Japan and specifically, on the island of Okinawa. As you probably know by now, I'm a total sucker for productivity and healthy life hacks and the fact that a few places in the world, from Barbagia in Sardinia to Loma Linda in California, which have the highest concentration of centenarians share some lifestyle commonalities just captivated me. Who wouldn't want to reach a ripe old age in great physical and mental conditions? And with the work we do, which is in most cases strenuous, battling with the daily challenges of life like anyone else, but with the added layers of frustration and eco-anxiety, and constant analysis of our lifestyle and choices, a strong framework to support our bodies and minds to keep going is necessary. So here it is:
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Before you jump in and say "Doh!", just look at the elements that scientists have demonstrated have a long-term effect on your longevity and health:
- Do you sit at your desk for eight hours a day without moving and then go to the gym? Then rethink your routine. It has been demonstrated that moving throughout the day is best to keep your body and mind healthy (hence I bought a walking pad to use with my standing desk).
- Do you eat to 80% full then stop? I know I don't. Especially when it comes to pizza night.
- Do you connect with your tribe regularly, play sports together, and stop working early enough to spend quality time with your family?
- Have you found your life purpose, your ikigai?
I don't know about you but, in the abundance of often conflicting health advice out there, I feel that using our bodies in the way they are designed to function is a safe bet, especially because there is evidence that it works.
And while I can't help you eat better, I can definitely help you find your purpose at work and in life. Get in touch if you'd like me to!
This article was originally written for the Green Gorilla weekly newsletter. If you liked it, subscribe to receive more articles like this and learn how to communicate sustainability better, how to be more productive without selling your soul to the work devil, and how to make an impact in the world. Here is the link: https://newsletter.thegreengorilla.co.uk/