New Research Reveals 5 Healthy Afternoon Habits for Longevity Inspired by the Blue Zones
When it comes to living a long and healthy life, people often look to the Blue Zones for inspiration. These five regions of the world, including Nicoya, Costa Rica, Loma Linda, California, Ikaria, Greece, Okinawa, Japan, and Sardinia, Italy, are known for their high concentration of centenarians. Researchers have already uncovered their secrets to a healthy morning and a thriving coffee culture, and now they are tapping into the Blue Zones once again to discover how they approach the afternoon.
In the United States, the afternoon is often seen as a time to buckle down and accomplish as much work as possible. However, in the Blue Zones, the approach is quite different. According to longevity researcher Dan Buettner, productivity takes a back seat to purpose. “Productivity is not a priority, purpose is,” Buettner explains. The people in the Blue Zones prioritize integrating healthy natural foods, social connections, and natural movement into their afternoons, all of which contribute to their lower stress lifestyles.
While the specific habits may vary across Blue Zone regions, they all follow the basic nine elements associated with a Blue Zone lifestyle, says Dr. Robert Agnello, a professor at Campbell University who has studied the Blue Zones. These habits not only support longevity, but also improve overall well-being. Here are five healthy afternoon habits from the Blue Zones that you can adopt to boost your longevity:
1. Prioritize purpose, not productivity: Instead of focusing solely on work, the people in the Blue Zones dedicate their days to living their purpose. Studies have shown that having a sense of purpose in life is linked to better physical function and lower risk of age-related decline. Take some time during the day to reflect on what makes you fulfilled and incorporate that into your afternoon routine.
2. Take your time eating lunch with others: Instead of eating lunch in front of your desk, make it a social affair. Residents of Ikaria and Sardinia, two Blue Zones regions, make lunch a drawn-out and social event. Enjoy a nourishing meal with anti-inflammatory foods such as beans, fish, olive oil, fresh fruits, whole grains, and leafy greens.
3. Make time to move: Rather than intense workouts, the Blue Zones approach to fitness involves incorporating natural movement throughout the day. Take walks, go on bike rides, or engage in activities that get your heart rate up. Regular movement is essential for cardiovascular health and can help prevent chronic diseases.
4. Recharge with a nap: In the Blue Zones, napping is a common practice to beat the afternoon heat and recharge. Napping is not only refreshing but also beneficial for heart health and stress relief. Set a timer for 15 to 30 minutes to ensure you don’t disrupt your nighttime sleep.
5. Make time to socialize: Social connection is a fundamental aspect of life in the Blue Zones and contributes to longevity. Maintain strong bonds with friends and family as loneliness can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. Make plans to socialize with others, even if it’s just a quick phone or video call.
By incorporating these five healthy afternoon habits into your routine, inspired by the Blue Zones, you can support your longevity and beat the afternoon slump. Remember, longevity is not just about living a long life but also living a fulfilling and purposeful one. Follow the wisdom of the Blue Zones and prioritize your well-being for a healthier and happier future.