Costa Rica as a whole is a happy place. This Blue Zone is in the mountains of the Nicoyan Peninsula in western Costa Rica. Your email address will not be published. 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. 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. Adapting our lifestyles wherever we live to healthier practices such as intermittent fasting, walkability, exploring plant-based gastronomy, and low glycemic index food intake sound like your everyday doctors recipe for a healthy life, says Cedeno-Molinari. Longevity then would not be a luxury only reserved for a few living in Blue Zones, but a reality for billions.. 11 talking about this. They are joined by 42 other centenarians in the Nicoya Peninsula, located in the 5 blue cantons: Nicoya, Santa Cruz, Hojancha, Nandayure and Carrillo (according to data from Jorge Vindas, a field researcher for the Nicoya Peninsula Blue Zone Association). Read more below about the lessons that Nicoya, Costa Rica can teach you about longevity. The best way we can mourn those lives lost is to honor them by creating a better future for our children, their children, and their childrens children by making healthier choices now. 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. It's a question that inhabitants of Guanacaste are happy to be asking themselves, since it's a true pride for the province's population to be home to one of the five such zones that exist worldwide. The Power of Nutrition (Part 3): The Blue Zones Physicians 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 an article in the Chicagoan, Marc J. Wildlife is abundant. 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. Due to the Nicoya Peninsula's location in Central America, the area has an abundance of warm days with tons of sunlight. WED LOVE IF YOUD ADD IT ON PINTEREST! You can drive to Tamarindo in about 80 minutes from the Liberia airport (its about four hours from Costa Ricas other main airport in the capital, San Jos). Blue Zones: How The World's Oldest People Make Their Money Last - Forbes Let's start with our home - the Nicoya Peninsula.This tropical region in the north west of Costa Rica, has the world's lowest rate of middle-aged mortality, and the second highest amount of men over 100 years of age. Though Chicago is not one of those cities that uses the template outlined in the Blue Zones Project, the city could adapt to the Blue Zones principals. These centenarians help teach us the value of those important little things," said Mauricio Ventura, Minister of Tourism, with pride. Whether this pandemic impacts the average lifespan of people around the world or not, a lot can be gained by studying five specific regions in the world where people seemingly effortlessly live to over 90 years in age. Every morning, at dawn, before the men of Nicoya ride their horses through the mountains of the Costa Rican peninsula, they eat a healthy breakfast. Meat, fish, and poultry only make up 5% of the usual diet. The daily breakfast consists of gallo pinto (rice and beans) with a basket of homemade corn tortillas and hot coffee. Some sea turtles have even lived to age 150. When Dan Buettner introduced the concept of Blue Zones, he formed the Blue Zones Project. We must make the health of future generations our responsibility by implementing the lifestyles of the Blue Zones people now. We know that the diet here is different than that of the rest of the country, and that the character of the people here is unique in the world. We do not need to wait for our cities of residence to adopt the principles for healthier living outlined in the Blue Zones Project. Pura vida means pure or simple life and Costa Ricas Nicoya Peninsula has what you could call extreme pura vida. First . howler and white face monkeys, red variegated squirrels, sloths, anteaters, raccoon-like coatis, butterflies, plus some 900 bird species including the fiery-billed aracari toucan and the rufous-tailed hummingbird. The proper mindset about longevity is not about aspiring to live to a very old age, but to enjoy the best quality of life possible during the last ten years we live, says Alvaro Cedeno-Molinari, a former Costa Rican diplomat and ambassador who works intensely promoting bioliteracy, regeneration, and well-being as holistic healthy mindsets. Results were also shared from the research carried out by the demographer Luis Rosero and Dr. Elizabeth Lopez, both from Costa Rica, who made significant contributions on the subject of healthy longevity. Just note, you might have trouble finding a place to stay. Fish is a lean protein and provides oils which help with overall brain function. These cantons are: Carillo, Hojancha, Nicoya, Santa Cruz, and Nandoyure. 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. Nicoya - Wikipedia Famous for its gorgeous Pacific Coast beaches and well known for its surfing, wellness, yoga, and vibrant sunsets, the Nicoya peninsula is a paradise for the mind, body, and soul. A hike from the town of Montezuma will bring you past several cooling-off pools on your way to the three cascades of this waterfall, perhaps the most visited one on the peninsula. 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. There are several theories about why the Blue Zone of Costa Rica exists, but the most likely explanation is that it is due to a combination of factors. On today's podcast, Gina does some serious myth-busting about what has kept the centenarians so well, for so long. What they generally don't know, however, is that a part of Costa Rica tourists rarely visit (the rural Nicoya Peninsula towns of Nicoya, Santa Cruz and environs) contains the largest. Blue Zones Nicoya | Santa Cruz - Facebook Toss gently. 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. However, both towns have a more touristy vibe to them. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. "The five cantons of the peninsula continue to appear with greater longevity and we've confirmed this everywhere we've investigated. The sustainable and equitable promotion of the long-living population of seniors and the establishment of a cultural agenda aimed at strengthening sustainable, rural, community tourism stood out among the commitments made. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2008-2023 Law Dissertation Writing Services. Nicoya is a small, rural beach community located on the Guanacaste peninsula on the northwest coast of Costa Rica. These characteristics are: Despite this, it is believed that 30% of a long healthy life comes from genes and 70% is based on lifestyle. When that day comes, Nicoyas Blue Zone will continue to be an example of the resiliency of the human body and spirit. Required fields are marked *, car rental deal! Blue zones are regions where some of the oldest and healthiest people live. 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. As of now, there are 5 blue zones: Icaria, Greece. He then had the idea to research areas in the world with the longest lifespan. They also practice good physical and mental health. Community. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. San Jose, Costa Rica 10104. If you want to really embrace the Nicoya Peninsula blue zone vibe, head to any small village in the area. They have been able to exceed their life expectancy and serve as an example for the entire world. This vigorous village is one of the Blue Zones' unique hotspots. Check out all of our favorite travel companies. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Healthy and supportive relationships with friends and family are another one of their keys to longevity. The term "Blue Zone" was first used in a 2005 National Geographic cover story entitled "The Secret of Long Life" written by a man named Dan Buettner. Inadequate calcium means weak muscles -- including the heart. Join 19k+ subscribers in receiving FREE travel advice, news & promotions! Lane cites the impact of COVID-19 on minorities like Blacks and Hispanics throughout Chicago. The Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica is one of the five areas in the world that hold the distinguished classification of a Blue Zone. Try spending quality times with your loved ones. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. A Blue Zone is the name given to one of the areas in the world where a majority of people have a life expectancy of at least 100 years old. The world has a number of 'Blue Zones', areas where the locals live healthier and longer lives. But other factors are at play, especially in Nicoya, an 80-mile peninsula just south of the Nicaraguan border. 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. 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. Near the fishing village of Tambor (reached by a 20-minute flight from San Jos or a drive down from the Paquera ferry) is Costa Ricas first all-inclusive. Maintaining close ties with family and friends helps reduce stress. Here you will find some of the most beautiful beaches and hotels in Costa Rica, along with lush tropical forests perfect for hiking or horseback riding. Costa Ricans called Ticos say pura vida instead of hello, how are you, fine, thanks, and see you later and youll quickly find yourself saying it too. Blue Zone: Nicoya, Costa Rica - Plant-Based Life Foundation Were Thomas (the German) and Sarah (the US-er). Its about 75 miles long and 35 miles wide, with the northern section a part of Guanacaste province and the southern section in Puntarenas province. Directions: Toss the cabbage with the orange juice, season with salt and pepper and let sit 30 minutes. Oftentimes, this helps maintain healthy and supportive relationships within their communities, and develop a strong sense of faith and purpose along the way. Black beans contain high doses of antioxidants and they are eaten for almost every meal among Nicoyans (and most Costa Ricans). While we may not increase the average life expectancy throughout the world we can use Nicoya as a template for healthier living. The Nicoya Peninsula has several on offer, including near Tamarindo, outside the Cabo Blanco Reserve near Playa Mal Pais, and above the Montezuma waterfall. Costa Rica Tourism Board, Institutional Site, Costa Rica Convention Center, Promotional Site, Costa Rica Tourism Board | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Site Map. Face-to-Face Conversations. Nicoyan centenarians frequently visit with neighbors, and they tend to live with families and children or grandchildren who provide support, as well as a sense of purpose. Your best bet might be finding a VRBO instead of a hotel. But we must also consider the impact of our individual health and lifestyle choices on future generations. Nicoya, Costa Rica A Latin American Blue Zone. 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. The Nicoya Peninsula has five cantons where middle-age morality is lowest and centenarians are the most abundant. The term first emerged in 2005 in a Nation Geographic magazine cover, "The Secrets of a Long Life.". Many Nicoyans choose to walk from one destination to another instead of driving. This Central American nation isnt that far from the U.S. geographically, but it is way ahead of us in longevity. This goes along with the decision to widen the country's tourism offerings and venture into industries with high potential, such as wellness tourism. Blue Zones: Lessons For Living Longer From The People Whove Lived The Longest. Hi! The international attendees also included Dan Buettner, a reporter and researcher for National Geographic, who has been responsible for popularizing the concept of Blue Zones through the publication of various articles and best-selling books that explore the direct connection between this issue and diet, spirituality, purpose in life and physical exercise, with happiness as a cross-cutting element. Check out all of our favorite travel companies. Stir in two chopped plum tomatoes, half of a finely chopped onion and one . Santa Teresa is great for surfing and enjoying a small but vibrant town with a backpacker vibe. There are other blue zones in California, Italy, Greece, and Japan. People from Nicoya enjoy an ample dose of Vitamin D. They spend most of their time outside tending to the land and enjoy a healthy relationship with surrounding nature. They know how to listen, laugh, and appreciate what they have. In other words, people in these zones to live longer than any other areas in the world. Soltara Healing Center is located on the calm and pristine Gulf of Nicoya in the mountainous jungle of Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula. A Blue Zone is the name given to one of the areas in the world where a majority of people have a life expectancy of at least 100 years old. Costa Rica Experts 2023. "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. Dan discovered five places where residents have low rates of chronic disease and live longer than anywhere else. 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. The expat community in Coco is generally older retirees, however, there are some younger expats running around. If coming from San Jose, the easiest way to get to the Nicoya Peninsula is to take the ferry from Puntarenas. Tamarindo is also a great place for solo travelers. Costa Rica: Land of the Centenarians A blue zone is a geographical area in which the population is the longest-lived. Blue Zones: Want To Live To 100? - Elite Healthy Living El propsito de la compaa es promover y crear conciencia sobre el consumo de productos de alta calidad, con valor nutricional y . Hi, my name is Mike Gillespie & I'm fundraising to help support the Blue Zone communities in Nicoya Costa Rica. Nearby is the Barra Honda National Park with its caves, the Monte Alto Nature Reserve where a variety of orchids grow, and other natural reserves where you can see wildlife. 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. Were Thomas (the German) and Sarah (the US-er). Speaking of work, finding work/life balance is a constant challenge for many. The Tortuga Islands are offshore and are a frequent destination for snorkeling trips, even from other parts of the peninsula. Costa Rica's Longevity Secrets - Blue Zones 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. It is fascinating to see which factors play into long lifespan including how you can emulate this lifestyle. uma atrativa pergunta explica que os habitantes de Guanacaste e sim dvida contar com uma das cinco que existem no mundo um orgulho para todos os habitantes da provincia. Buettner had spent several years before penning the article leading expeditions including tracing Darwin's route in the Galapagos and Marco Polo's trip along the Silk Road. I cant blame you. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Get to Know Costa Rica's Blue Zone: The Nicoya Peninsula The peninsula is one of the worlds five Blue Zones where many people live exceptionally long and healthy lives. You may opt-out by. Arising from this need, one of the results of the meeting was the establishment of an International Network on Healthy Aging, which will be led from Costa Rica in order to "build knowledge collaboratively", said Montero. The term 'Blue Zone' was coined by Dan Buettner, a New York Times bestselling author, who was studying areas to some of the oldest people in the world. For the first time ever, the world's most prominent researchers shared their knowledge and most recent research on the topic of Blue Zones. Eco-tourism is a natural must in this out-of-this-world scenario, where everything that happens is in a quiet, lovely pace. 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. When you book through our trusted partners we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It includes black beans, cooked plantains, fresh papaya, yams, squash, homemade corn tortillas, and fish (if near the coast). March 2nd, 2023. Try opting to walk places instead of driving. 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. Nicoya, Costa Rica - Blue Zones 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. Costa Rica's Blue Zones Nicoya, Costa Rica, is a Central American Caribbean nation that boasts economic security and excellent health care. The beautiful view of the beaches may also have a hand in this. On the peninsulas southeast coast is Tambor, with Nicoyas most southerly airport. Access to natural foods and organic fruits and vegetables (stables of the Nicoyans) is difficult to come by. Why is Costa Rica one of the Happiest, Healthiest - Blue Zones Nicoya Its name is due to the tribe that reigned prior to the arrival of the Spanish in 1520, it is said to come from the Nahuatlas words Nica, Necoclau or Necocyanh, which means surrounded by water. Go to a soda, thats the name of a small, local caf, and look for casado this popular dish is rice and beans served with vegetables and either fish or meat. Sardinia, Italy. It would be hard to imagine two more different places than free-wheeling Costa Rica and legally rigid Singapore, yet both are among the happiest places on earth. The heart is a muscle, and all muscle contractions depend on calcium. Full of natural beauty, endless sunlight, white beaches and radiant ocean, Nicoya reigns as one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica. To my delight, Costa Rica has its own Blue Zone - the Nicoya Peninsula! Residents of this 80-mile peninsula found south of the Nicaraguan border have the world's lowest middle-age mortality rates, and the second highest number of male centenarians in the world. Butterflies in Costa Rica The Best Places to See Them, Irazu Volcano Visit the Highest Volcano in Costa Rica, 20 Free Things to Do in Costa Rica That Youll Love, Costa Rica Rental Car Discount Save Up to 20%, The feeling of a sense of purpose in life. These regions are considered Blue Zones. "Year after year, our surveys indicate that its the Costa Ricans themselves that set our destination apart, and it's certainly always a marvelous experience to spend time with the older generation. The quality of Nicoyas water might be one of the reasons residents live long enough to become centenarians and almost-centenarians. The baby turtles hatch 45 to 54 days later and, if theyre lucky, might live another 50 to 80 years. January 18, 2022 . The world has a number of Blue Zones, areas where the locals live healthier and longer lives. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. We can start making healthier choices today, thus living more enriching lives and encouraging others to adopt similar healthy ways of living. This is a BETA experience.