why is nicoya, costa rica a blue zone why is nicoya, costa rica a blue zone

While walking gives Nicoyans a chance to exercise and get fresh air, it also gives them time to enjoy the natural beauty for which Nicoya is known. Try spending quality times with your loved ones. For Priscila Chaves, a Costa Rican social tech-entrepreneur and ethics thought leader, the question that still stands is, how can we translate these apparent otherworldly effects, to the rest of us? The Power of Nine is the name Buetnner has given to the characteristics that all Blue Zones seem to share. Required fields are marked *, car rental deal! Loma Linda, California. We hope you love the Blue Zone Costa Rica stays we recommend. The chance to do yoga in an open-air pavilion on the beach is not to be missed! Nicoyas west and south coasts are the most popular for visitors and offer a wide range of accommodations and access to the peninsulas wilderness and activities. Maintaining close ties with family and friends helps reduce stress. It helps them remain positive. Are We Headed To A World In Which We Own Nothing? Read more below about the lessons that Nicoya, Costa Rica can teach you about longevity. However, Costa Rica's blue zone is so much more. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with a host of problems, such as osteoporosis and heart disease, but regular, smart sun exposure (about 15 minutes on the legs and arms) can help supplement your diet and make sure youre getting enough of this vital nutrient. Access to natural foods and organic fruits and vegetables (stables of the Nicoyans) is difficult to come by. The gateway to the Nicoya Peninsula is the beach town of Tamarindo on the west coast, which is very popular with international travelers. Nicoyans often live more than 100 years and Nicoya boasts of the highest number of centenarians in the world. In the future, when we do emerge from the current pandemic, many cities and companies will revisit well-being as a main topic for their citizens and employees. In these areas people have low rates of chronic diseases, so they tend to live longer than in other places. Rice and black beans, gallo pinto, served with eggs and tropical fruit. It is believed that one factor which may contribute to the high number of Nicoyan centenarians is the high calcium content in the water. In the southern part of the peninsula, Santa Teresa is a popular surf area that sprawls for miles along the coast. The Caribbean nation is economically secure and has excellent health care. Also on offer are boat trips to the volcanic Tortuga Islands, where snorkelers might spot angelfish and porcupine fish, and theres a chance of seeing dolphins, manta and spotted eagle rays, and turtles on the way. Demographers have identified the area, located on Costa Rica's northern Pacific coast, as a Blue Zone or "longevity hot spot," typified by a higher-than-normal number of people living past the age of one hundred. It includes black beans, cooked plantains, fresh papaya, yams, squash, homemade corn tortillas, and fish (if near the coast). "Looking beyond Costa Ricas Blue Zone in Nicoya, elements that make our population stand out and that describe our focus on well-being can be found in every corner of our territory. The expat community in Coco is generally older retirees, however, there are some younger expats running around. I have been exploring the data reported by National Geographic and Dan Buettner in the Blue Zones Solution: . For example, we know that Nicoya is the driest part of Costa Rica, that it used to be part of Nicaragua, and that more Indians intermarried with the Spanish who began settling here in 1510. La Senda has a 2.5-acre labyrinth with a two-mile-long path (said to be the biggest in the world) as well as horseback riding. To understand some of the reasons why Blue-Zoners live healthier, longer lives, let's take another look at Ricardo's daily routine. "The five cantons of the peninsula continue to appear with greater longevity and we've confirmed this everywhere we've investigated. Dan discovered five places where residents have low rates of chronic disease and live longer than anywhere else. Blue Zones, those special places on earth where people live longer and healthier lives, first came to prominence in the ground-breaking book by Dan Buettner, Blue Zones. Throughout the world, the average life expectancy is 71 years of age (70 for males and 72 for females). Toss gently. There will be a lot to learn and a lot to do to get back to a healthier normal. Imagine yourself in a future not-so-distant, where more conscious lifestyle decisions you make at an individual level, are supported by a branch of medicine that attempts to change the course of diseases and regenerates failing parts of our bodies. Stir in two chopped plum tomatoes, half of a finely chopped onion and one . This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. The most southerly point is Cabo Blanco Reserve and the south coast also has the town of Tambor. Along with starting every morning with a healthy breakfast, Nicoyans also eat nutritious food throughout the day. It is fascinating to see which factors play into long lifespan including how you can emulate this lifestyle. Due to the Nicoya Peninsula's location in Central America, the area has an abundance of warm days with tons of sunlight. Directions: Toss the cabbage with the orange juice, season with salt and pepper and let sit 30 minutes. Nicoya, Costa Rica - And then there's Nicoya, where Ricardo and his family live, a notable exception to the rule that people in developing countries have shorter life spans than those in developed ones. Costa Rica holds one of the original 5 blue zones of the world and you will find yourself in one of them if you decide on living in the Nicoya Peninsula. Is the Nicoya Peninsula good for a Wellness getaway? Not long after, he began to lead trips to the first Blue Zones that he had discovered. As indicated by the World Health Organization, "active or positive aging is the process of optimizing opportunities for health, participation and security in order to enhance quality of life as people age". We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. The Blue Zone of the Nicoya Peninsula stands out for the beauty of its landscapes, its tourist attractions, and its conservation areas, but above all, for the stories told by the long-lived inhabitants of the region, who have exceeded the life expectancy in Costa Rica and continue to be lucid and active, and who enjoy long, healthy lives. Fish is a lean protein and provides oils which help with overall brain function. And a breakfast rich with antioxidants helps to protect a persons cells from disease. Each region has its own diet, types of exercise, and community structure, but each has specific elements in common - all starting with a sense of purpose. All of the international experts agreed that the factors that make healthy longevity possible must be communicated worldwide, in order to reflect on the implications of Blue Zones, unique geographical areas with a high concentration of inhabitants who live to ninety or one hundred years of age, whose aging process is positive, and most importantly, deliberate and active. For most of their lives, Nicoyan centenarians ate a traditional Mesoamerican diet highlighted with the three sisters of agriculture: squash, corn, and beans. He cautions though that one of the reasons Nicoyas centenarians live so long is that they dont have high incomes, which means theyve had to do physical labor since they were young, their meals are light and mainly of vegetables and legumes, and they cant afford a lot of protein or processed foods. Speaking of work, finding work/life balance is a constant challenge for many. The term first emerged in 2005 in a Nation Geographic magazine cover, "The Secrets of a Long Life.". They have a simplistic lifestyle - Nicoyans ordinarily make a living as farmers and or cattle ranchers, and this consistent activity is said to be one of the reasons for their longevity. Costa Rica is home to one of the five original blue zones regions, the Nicoya peninsula, with a high number of centenarians in excellent health. There are common factors that exist in these populations, such as good physical and mental health, a healthy traditional diet, respect for the family, deep faith, constant mobility, and a purpose in life. While a Blue Zone indicates a hotspot of healthy longevity, it also presents a challenge of how to extend these benefits throughout the population outside of these redoubts. They embrace the relaxed Pura Vida lifestyle and family always comes first. Nicoyas interior where most of the centenarians and almost-centenarians live and northeastern coast are less visited by tourists but still have much to offer. If you want to really embrace the Nicoya Peninsula blue zone vibe, head to any small village in the area. Meaning, family ties are strong. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Complex carbs provide the energy a person needs to get through the day. The five known Blue Zones identified in Buettner's book include:. Youre sure to be on the path to a long and healthy life after the four-handed Abundance Treatment, which combines Reiki, Shiatsu, Swedish massage, sound and aromatherapy, and acupressure. Costa Rica Tourism Board, Institutional Site, Costa Rica Convention Center, Promotional Site, Costa Rica Tourism Board | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Site Map. A blue zone is a geographical area in which the population is the longest-lived. The peninsula is one of the worlds five Blue Zones where many people live exceptionally long and healthy lives. We met in Virginia, moved to Germany, and now live in sunny Costa Rica. Plantains are high in potassium, fiber, carbohydrates, vitamin B6 and vitamin C. The waters around the Nicoya Peninsula are also home to several species of fish including tuna and red snapper. These factors are present, to some degree, in the other four Blue Zones in the world, according to world experts who participated in the World Meeting in Nicoya in mid-November. While we may not increase the average life expectancy throughout the world we can use Nicoya as a template for healthier living. Throughout Costa Rica, youll find vegetarian gallo pinto (rice and beans) served at breakfast, lunch, and dinner the name means spotted rooster because the black beans dot the rice. If we can harness that, we can hopefully improve the health of future generations. Nicoya, Costa Rica, is a Central American Caribbean nation that boasts economic security and excellent health care. Perhaps youll also figure out your lifes purpose, which studies show contributes to a longer and higher quality life, and make the effort to reconnect with family whether youve brought them with you or will see them again once youre home. The centenarians of the Nicoya Peninsula have also captured the interest of the Institute of Social Studies in Population (Instituto de Estudios Sociales en Poblacin, IDESPO) of the National University (Universidad Nacional) of Costa Rica, which is carrying out a study on the subject this year. I mean, how can you not be happy when the average daily temperature is 85 degrees fahrenheit, you can easily get to the beach or jungle, and youre surrounded by an abundance of nature and wildlife? It's also one of the happiest places in Central America: Costa Ricans report a high level of life satisfaction and the country has the highest literacy rate in Latin America. Eating fewer calories appears to be one of the surest ways to add years to your life. Nantipas special wellness booking includes yoga, meditation, Ayurvedic and sound therapies, and sessions with wellness coaches and personal trainers. Currently, three emblematic examples of this Blue Zone include the centenarians Jos Bonifacio "Pachito" Villegas, from Pochote de Quebrada Honda, Nicoya, who rides a horse every day at age 100, Trinidad Espinoza, who recounts anecdotes from Costa Rica in the 1930s continuously while she feeds her chickens, and Dmaso Mendoza, age 102, who, on receiving a visitor, always talks about her years as a dancer and how she enjoys the company of the five generations of her family in Santa Ana de Beln, Carillo. Genetics and Costa Ricas natural environment certainly play a large part, but lifestyle is a major factor in why Blue Zone residents live so long. mobile app. Buettner's studies on the Nicoya Peninsula revealed eight key factors that affect people's life expectancy. Youll stay in one of 21 suites, bungalows, and villas; lounge in poolside hammocks; walk on the beach; swim; and enjoy seafood purchased from local fishers and bread by the local baker in the open-air Manzu Restaurant thats right on Playa Santa Teresa. Join our newsletter for exclusive features, tips, giveaways! Vitamin D deficiency is associated with a host of problems, such as osteoporosis and heart disease, but regular, "smart" sun exposure (about 15 minutes on the legs and arms) can help . Even the cancer rates on the Nicoya Peninsula are lower than those elsewhere in the world! Or, get your zen on at La Senda, the wellness center on a 74-acre forested property near Tamarindo. When on vacation in Costa Rica, its also easy to pick up Blue Zone habits like getting regular outdoor exercise and a good nights sleep (though be sure to go to bed early if you want to do your sun salutations at actual sunrise). It includes the five cantons of the Nicoya Peninsula: Hojancha, Nandayure, Carrillo, Santa Cruz and Nicoya. This trend has been here for many years, but I was the one to notice this special feature in the data," said Bixby, a pioneer in longevity research. Pablo Jenkins, a regenerative investor and futurist explains that it is a great time to take on that wisdom from the local ancestors and combine it with new regenerative ways of living. Nicoyans attribute much of their longevity to social values of faith and family. Of course, there is still a desire for success (especially in the cities) but in general, the priorities are shifted. Montezuma: Best Hotels in Costa Rica. Blue Zone is a term created by author Dan Buettner, building off of research by demographers Michel Poulain, Ph.D., and Giovanni Pes, Ph.D. None of these staples are processed, and because all of these foods are locally grown they are not faced with genetically modified or pesticide laden produce. The surroundings dictate ways of operating, not personal decisions. For many the hope is that the lessons that these centenarians can teach us and the secrets of well-being and longevity that live in this extraordinary part of the world, will be able benefit all of humanity in the future. Another option is to take the 75-minute ferry across the Gulf of Nicoya from Puntarenas to Paquera. One Nicoyan, a centenarian, said he knew death would eventually come for him but it is the love for his children that motivates him to keep going every day. For those that don't know, there are a few communities around the globe where people live long and healthy lives, up to and past 100, dubbed "blue zones." Nosara also has three beaches remote black sand Playa Nosara, Playa Guiones with some of Costa Ricas best surfing, and Playa Pelada for tide pools, blow holes, snorkeling, and swimming. The world has a number of Blue Zones, areas where the locals live healthier and longer lives. Scarlet macaws are bred in Tambor and youll have a chance of seeing them, even on the beach. The Nicoya Peninsula Blue Zone, in addition to aligning with our Wellness Pura Vida strategy, are important as a driver of wellness tourism throughout the country, highlighting the importance of creating authentic travel experiences. It consists of 100 recipes with ingredients used by those who live in Nicoya, Costa Rica and the other four Blue Zones. That is when brands, businesses and cities will be able to look at Blue Zones like the one in Nicoya and find a model to follow. They also practice good physical and mental health. Dubbed "blue zones," residents of these areas share a common environment and lifestyle that . My fourth investigation into exactly what our Blue Zone folks eat has left this dietitian, well, intrigued. Specifically, the rural landscapes of the Nicoya Peninsula, where people have some of the longest lifespans in the world. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. We can start making healthier choices today, thus living more enriching lives and encouraging others to adopt similar healthy ways of living. Its difficult to maintain family bonds and friendships when school and work take us far from home, into strange communities. Protein helps to rebuild and repair tissue, as well as it helps a person to feel full. Lets explore the Blue Zone in Nicoya, Costa Rica and what the Nicoyan lifestyle can teach us about humanity and what we could do better in the future. I will be visiting Costa Rica next week to meet with Jorge who founded a local organization that helps the small Blue Zone villages. Although the Blue Zone Project isnt all about diet, and its certainly about more than food for the people of Nicoya it is a big difference from the typical American diet (no matter what type of community). We have obtained information from Nicoya, Costa Rica on ways to live longer and be happier. The five blue zones are: Loma Linda, California; Sardinia, Italy; Okinawa, Japan; Ikaria, Greece; and the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. In parallel, the ICT has drawn attention to the concept of the Blue Zone as part of its wellness tourism strategy as a distinctive feature in promoting the destination, while the Ministry of Culture and Youth has identified the long-lived inhabitants as bearers of a tradition which they can contribute to recovering for future generations. The Nicoya Peninsula has five cantons where middle-age morality is lowest and centenarians are the most abundant. Your email address will not be published. You can design your own holistic retreat too, choosing from a Kirtan sound bath, detox program, cacao ceremony, blue clay treatment, drum circles, and more. When Dan Buettner introduced the concept of Blue Zones, he formed the Blue Zones Project. Meat, fish, and poultry only make up 5% of the usual diet. Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula joins Sardinia, Italy, Okinawa, Japan, Lima Linda, California, and Icaria, Greece as one of the world's five blue zones. This has paid off, with Costa Rica frequently scoring high in world happiness and environmental rankings. Having a Blue Zone helps strengthen the country's constant striving for quality of life, both for Costa Ricans and for tourists. The Nicoya Peninsula has several on offer, including near Tamarindo, outside the Cabo Blanco Reserve near Playa Mal Pais, and above the Montezuma waterfall. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Check out all of our favorite travel companies. By TCRN STAFF October 5, 2022 528 0 So, having extra-hard water may help keep Nicoyans' hearts strong, and longer. [Try this 5-Minute Tasty Squash and Beans for a taste of Costa Rican homecooking.]. Cala Luna won most innovative wellness hotel from the Global Beauty & Wellness Awards thanks to daily complimentary wellness activities like hatha yoga, bikes to borrow, farm-to-table cuisine (from La Sendas farm) with organic and biodynamic wines, and the innovative treatments at its Lahari Wellness Center spa. Were Thomas (the German) and Sarah (the US-er). This goes along with the decision to widen the country's tourism offerings and venture into industries with high potential, such as wellness tourism. For those who might need some meal ideas, Dan Buettner, wrote the Blue Zones Kitchen cookbook. In other words, Nicoyans receive a healthy dose of vitamins in their daily diet. English is widely spoken and the town has lots of tourist infrastructure with a wide variety of restaurant and accommodation choices.