“Blue zones” - this is what researchers call regions where people live to a particularly old age. Officially, these include places such as Okinawa in Japan or Sardinia in Italy. But if you take a closer look, you will discover many of these recipes for success on the Costa Blanca.
Mediterranean diet instead of ready meals
Here, health often starts at the weekly market: fresh fruit, vegetables, olive oil, fish - the basic ingredients for a diet that protects the heart and circulation. And unlike in the supermarket, most of the produce comes from local producers.
The climate, with 300 days of sunshine a year, entices almost everyone outside. Whether it's a morning stroll along the promenade or a short trip into the hinterland - exercise is part of everyday life here, not a compulsory activity.
Social proximity instead of isolation
In the coastal towns, the evening paseo is a must. People meet neighbours, acquaintances and strangers - and keep moving while chatting. Studies show that socialising is almost as important for health as sport.
Stress? Rather dosed
Of course, there is also bureaucracy, roadworks and traffic jams on the Costa Blanca. However, many things run at a Mediterranean pace: a little slower, less rushed - and often with a coffee in between.
Five habits, that you can adopt immediately
- Eat fresh produce every day: preferably seasonal and regional.
- Incorporate exercise into everyday life: Stairs instead of the lift, paseo instead of the couch.
- Socialise regularly: whether in a club, café or on the beach.
- Sunbathe: in moderation, but regularly for vitamin D.
- Practise composure: not everything has to happen immediately.
The Costa Blanca may not be an official „Blue Zone“. But it offers many ingredients to grow older healthier and happier. The rest? It's up to us - and perhaps a good glass of wine in the evening.
Term:
Coined by author Dan Buettner, describes regions with particularly high life expectancy.
Examples:
Okinawa (Japan)
Sardinia (Italy)
Ikaria (Greece)
Nicoya (Costa Rica)
Loma Linda (USA)
Common factors:
▶ Plant-emphasised diet
▶ Regular, moderate exercise
▶ Strong social ties
▶ Stress reduction through rituals
▶ Meaningful tasks even in old age
Life expectancy:
In official „blue zones“ it is sometimes over 90 years - with simultaneously low rates of chronic diseases.
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