#bluezone

[seolapolo-blog]

Singapore and The Rise of a Modern Blue Zone

Singapore has transformed urban living into a foundation for longevity through forward-thinking policies, advanced healthcare, and a dedication to green spaces, earning its place as the world’s newest Blue Zone.

Imagine a city where pursuing a long, healthy life isn’t just a dream but a daily reality seamlessly woven into the urban fabric. Singapore has achieved what once seemed unattainable: transforming a bustling, fast-paced metropolis into a sanctuary for health and longevity. Through forward-thinking policies, advanced healthcare systems, and an unwavering commitment to green spaces, Singapore has redefined urban living, earning its place as the world’s newest ‘Blue Zone.’

In the 1960s, life expectancy for a Singaporean child was just 65 years. Today, a Singapore-born child is expected to live at least 86 years—a testament to the country’s groundbreaking progress. Even more remarkable is the doubling of its centenarian population over the past decade, a clear indicator of its success in fostering longevity.

So, what’s behind this transformation? With its dense population and fast-paced lifestyle, how has Singapore become a global model for wellness and longevity? Let’s explore the innovative strategies that have made Singapore the first urban ‘Blue Zone Read for more

[downtoearthmarkets]

Trendy, fad diets come and go every few years, but there’s one diet that has stood the test of time and is consistently ranked by health experts as the top diet to follow. That diet is the Mediterranean Diet. Rather than a weight-loss program or restrictive meal plan, the Mediterranean Diet can best be described as a style of eating inspired by the food habits and culinary customs of people who live in or near the Mediterranean Basin. Centered around local food, traditional cooking and ingredients that are plentiful in the Mediterranean region, the diet emphasizes fruits and vegetables, heart-healthy fats, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and moderate amounts of seafood. The Mediterranean Diet has been proven through multiple scientific studies to promote overall health and wellbeing and is linked to longevity, weight-loss, and disease prevention. In fact, two of the five identified Blue Zones (regions of the world where people routinely live longer lives than average) are located within Mediterranean countries – Sardinia, Italy and Ikaria, Greece. If you’re not already onboard, the good news is that this way of eating is delicious, nutritious, and adaptable for many cuisines and cultures. In addition to the consumption of a whole food, plant-forward diet, the copious use of olive oil is another main commonality that links the cuisines of all Mediterranean countries. In keeping with our mission to provide healthy foods to local communities and economic opportunity to small-scale producers and creators, Down to Earth Markets sells olive oil that originates from small, nonindustrial olive farms based in California and Greece. Our producers own their own groves, harvest the olives, press the oil, and sell it direct to consumers at the height of freshness. Health Benefits of Olive Oil The predominant fatty acid in olive oil is a monounsaturated fat called oleic acid which makes up about 73% of the total oil content. Oleic acid is believed to have many health benefits including lowering total cholesterol levels and reducing inflammation which is a key driver behind many diseases. It is also thought to have beneficial effects on genes linked to cancer. Furthermore, olive oil is loaded with polyphenols including oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, and their derivatives. These biologically active compounds act as powerful antioxidants displaying anticancer, anti-angiogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Extra Virgin Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the highest quality olive oil. EVOO is extracted by mechanically crushing olives without the use of heat or chemical solvents. This means it has not been refined or processed in any way. Not only is it the most flavorful and aromatic of olive oils, the cold-pressing method of extraction helps it retain the highest levels of healthful components. Thanks to its purity and low acidity, EVOO has a higher smoke point so, in addition to being enjoyed raw in salad dressings and as a dish enhancer, it can be safely used in home cooking to sauté, fry and bake. Given its versatility, the culinary possibilities are endless in terms of EVOO’s flavor, color and texture. Freshness and Storage You can rest assured that the olive oil sold in our farmers markets is extremely fresh since it is sourced from small-batch producers who harvest their olives annually. They will be happy to give the background of their product and tell you about its harvest date, which is something you can’t learn from olive oils sold in supermarkets. Once it’s home, you can preserve the integrity and quality of your product by protecting it properly. Sustained exposure to heat, light and oxygen will turn olive oil rancid so it’s best to keep it away from the stove and store it in a cool, dark space. In addition to olive oil, Down to Earth farmers markets offer a bounty of Mediterranean Diet foods throughout the year including seasonal fruits and vegetables, seafood, lean meats, and whole grains. There are many other foods to discover in our markets that will facilitate Mediterranean style eating without your ever having to fly across the Atlantic. No matter how you make it work for your individual needs and lifestyle, the flexible nature of the Mediterranean diet makes it super easy to follow. And, if you’re looking for recipe inspo, you can visit our website or check out Oldways for a fantastic repository of ideas.

[storedapear]

Unlocking Japan's Secrets to Longevity and Vibrant Health

Have you ever wondered why people in Japan seem to have unlocked the code to live long, healthy lives? It’s a question that intrigues many, and the answers are as rich and varied as Japan’s culture itself. Let’s dive into the key factors contributing to Japan’s renowned longevity and explore how these principles can enhance our well-being.

The Power of a Nutrient-Dense Diet

One of the first pillars of Japanese health is their traditional diet—a true treasure trove of nutrients. Japanese meals are packed with fresh, seasonal ingredients like rice, fish, vegetables, and fruits. Seafood, in particular, plays a major role in their diet, providing a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health and brain function. A prime example is miso soup, a Japanese staple known for its probiotics, which promote gut health and boost immunity.

This focus on whole, unprocessed foods fuels the body with essential nutrients, a sharp contrast to the fast-food culture prevalent in many other parts of the world. Adopting a similar approach to eating could help anyone, anywhere, enhance their nutrition and overall health.

The Practice of Mindful Eating: "Hara Hachi Bu"

Beyond what they eat, the Japanese emphasize how they eat. A key concept in Japanese culture is Hara Hachi Bu, which translates to “eat until you’re 80% full.” This practice of mindful eating encourages portion control, preventing overeating and fostering a healthier relationship with food. Rather than mindlessly eating while distracted, the Japanese savor each bite, paying attention to their body's signals.

Incorporating this practice into your daily life can lead to improved digestion, a stronger awareness of hunger and satiety, and ultimately, better health.

The Importance of Social Connections

Community and social bonds are deeply valued in Japan. Whether it’s family gatherings or participation in local festivals, these connections foster a sense of belonging. Research shows that strong social ties lead to improved mental health, emotional well-being, and even longevity.

If you’re seeking to enhance your well-being, strengthening your social network—whether by reaching out to friends or joining a community group—can be incredibly beneficial. The emotional support gained from social interactions contributes not only to happiness but also to physical health.

Physical Activity as a Lifestyle

Daily movement is a natural part of life in Japan. Whether walking, biking, or participating in gentle exercises like Tai Chi, staying physically active is ingrained in the culture. This commitment to movement helps maintain flexibility, strength, and mobility, especially as people age.

You don’t need to engage in intense workouts to reap the benefits. Simple activities, such as taking regular walks or trying a new physical hobby like yoga or dancing, can keep your body agile and boost your overall fitness.

Mindfulness and Mental Health

The Japanese place great importance on mindfulness and stress reduction, often incorporating meditation or mindful breathing into their daily routines. Given the negative impact of stress on both mental and physical health, this practice can have profound effects.

Regular mindfulness exercises can reduce stress, enhance focus, and promote a sense of inner peace. Even a few minutes of meditation or deep breathing each day can help clear the mind and cultivate a calmer, healthier outlook.

A Deep Connection with Nature

Japanese culture also reflects a profound respect for nature. Whether through the celebration of seasonal changes or the appreciation of local produce, there is a strong connection to the natural world. This harmony with nature encourages a lifestyle that values the environment and fosters a sense of balance and well-being.

Spending time outdoors, whether by walking in a park or simply appreciating a sunset, can foster a deep sense of peace and remind us that our health is intimately connected with the world around us.

A Holistic Approach to Longevity

The longevity and vitality of the Japanese people are rooted in a holistic approach to life. By embracing nutrient-dense foods, practicing mindful eating, fostering social connections, staying physically active, and finding peace through mindfulness, the Japanese have crafted a lifestyle that promotes long-term health and happiness.

Incorporating these principles into our own lives can lead to profound changes. Simple adjustments—eating more thoughtfully, moving more often, connecting with others, and appreciating nature—can help us lead longer, healthier lives.

"You can order these interesting eBooks on Japanese wisdom on health and longevity:"

eBook 1

eBook 2

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At Dapear, we’re passionate about supporting your wellness journey. Our premium, science-backed nutritional supplements are designed to help you feel your best, whether you’re looking to boost energy, enhance focus, or support overall health. Take a step toward better health today—visit [dapear.com] and explore our range of products. Your body deserves the best, and so do you!

[bethestaryouareradio]

Malibu Summer, Cherries and June Blooms, Living Longer

Tune in LIVE weekly to the upbeat, positive lifestyle broadcast where producer and host Cynthia Brian showcases strategies for success on StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!®. Available wherever you listen to your favorite programs!

Looking for a fantastic summer read? Check out Libby Gill’s newest novel, Malibur Summer.Ivy Bauer is a young scientist who has invented a game-changing irrigation solution. When her husband dies unexpectedly, she takes a job as gardener on the Malibu estate of down-on-his-luck television producer Conrad Reed. When Ivy and Conrad meet, it's a clash made in heaven! Cynthia and Libby chat about her inspiration!

Life may be a bowl of cherries, but who is getting the majority of the harvest? Goddess Gardener, Cynthia Brian shares her struggles with sharing her summer fruits and talks about the beautiful blooms of summer.

You have probably heard of the Blue Zones where many inhabitants live past 100 years of age! If you want to live healthy for a century or more, perhaps adopting the practices of these people needs to be on our radar. Let’s find out how we can enjoy longevity with vigor and bliss!

Follow StarStyle®:

Bio: Libby Gill

Libby Gill is a former television executive whose first career was heading communications for television divisions at Sony, Universal, and Turner Broadcasting. She is an award-winning author of six non-fiction books, including You Unstuck and The Hope-Driven Leader. Her debut novel, MALIBU SUMMER, was published by Penguin Random House on May 21, 2024.

In her prior career, Libby was an executive coach, leadership expert, and international speaker for more than 20 years, and has delivered keynotes on four continents and in 41 US states. She has appeared on the CBS Early Show, CNN, NPR, the Today Show and in Good Housekeeping, the New York Times, O Magazine, Self, Time Magazine, and the Wall Street Journal.

 After many years living in Los Angeles, Libby and her husband relocated to Oregon’s Rogue Valley, where she hikes, gardens and attempts to learn golf. LibbyGill.com, LIbbyGillBooks.com

Listen at the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/150573/malibu-summer-cherries-and-june-blooms-living-longer

[goddessgardener]

Malibu Summer, Cherries and June Blooms, Living Longer

Tune in LIVE weekly to the upbeat, positive lifestyle broadcast where producer and host Cynthia Brian showcases strategies for success on StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!®. Available wherever you listen to your favorite programs! Looking for a fantastic summer read? Check out Libby Gill’s newest novel, Malibur Summer.Ivy Bauer is a young scientist who has invented a game-changing irrigation…

View On WordPress:

https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/150573/malibu-summer-cherries-and-june-blooms-living-longer

[unfoldingmoments]

Control Stress

Stress is the button that the brain presses which acts as a default mechanism to adapt to the worst-case scenario. The moment we become acutely stressed, glucose spikes in our blood. You also get a spike in inflammatory markers.

We know the evolutionary reason for it. So if you're running away from an animal and you have an open wound, being in a state of inflammation protects you. When we're stressed. It's a benefit as long as it's short term.

The problem is as soon as you keep the button pressed for very long, these effects become negative.

Constant/ Chronic stress can cause cardiovascular disease and promote illness. It's not that these shepherds here don't have any stress. They just seem to have not a lot of chronic stress. In a global survey of daily stress country by country, American report the opposite. American exceed the global average by 20%. One of the ways in which stress is beneficial is if we overcome it by active coping. Today, in our urban world, through social media, news media, we are brought all the problems of the whole world. These are the problems you can't physically control. But you can control how you treat your goat to make sure your flock is healthy. And this sense of active coping where you can resolve the problems that you are given is a very important part of mental health, cognitive longevity, and stress resilience. So in most of the world, we are driven to get ahead by working hard, day in and day out. In Sardinia, it's not so much what they do, it's how they do it. Ref:

Mithu Storoni, MD, Phd (Neuro-Orphtalmologist & Author) Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones

[healthcareplatform]

https://www.merexpression.com/read-blog/143791_why-do-people-live-longer-in-blue-zones-exploring-the-secrets-of-exceptional-lon.html

[trenttrendspotter]

Coined two decades ago, “Blue Zones” is currently dominating the wellness world with a trending Netflix series and feature in @NYTimes about it seeping into American culture from real estate to groceries including our client @LangersJuice mentioned in the article. 

The launch of Langers' Blue Zones-inspired products comes alongside the Netflix docuseries, “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones." The series is hosted by National Geographic Explorer and @BlueZones Founder Dan Buettner, who identified the cultures of the world – or blue zones – with the healthiest, longest-living populations. To date, the expeditions unveiled the highest numbers of healthy centenarians in Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya, Costa Rica; and Loma Linda, California, a suburban town just 45 miles from the Langer family’s farms and headquarters.

The second-generation, family-owned brand was started by Nathan Langer, a man who lived with purpose – his hands in the soil and heart in the community. Langer’s legacy is not just about providing pure fruit juices to American households, but it's also in alignment with the lifestyle habits of the world’s healthiest, longest-living people in the Earth's blue zones: moving naturally, knowing your purpose, eating lots of fruit and vegetables, and drinking tea. To celebrate the unique areas that share these characteristics, Langers launched a Bergamot Black Unsweetened Tea and a Green & Jasmine Unsweetened Tea infused with nourishing ingredients traditionally enjoyed in the blue zones longevity hotspots of Ikaria, Greece and Okinawa, Japan.

[robertogrobman]

Precision Medicine

[decorworks]

10 Blue Zone Habits for a Longer, Healthier Life

In various corners of the world, there are regions known as "Blue Zones" where people live longer, healthier lives compared to the global average. These remarkable communities have unlocked the secrets to longevity and vitality through their unique lifestyle habits. So what are the undetectable yet powerful Blue Zone habits that can help you lead a longer, healthier life?  The term "Blue Zones" was first coined by Dan Buettner, a National Geographic Explorer and Fellow, during an exploratory project he led in 2004. The concept of Blue Zones grew from the demographic work of Gianni Pes and Michel Poulain, who identified Sardinia, Italy, as the region with the highest concentration of male centenarians. Pes and Poulain drew concentric blue circles on the map, highlighting these villages of extreme longevity and began referring to this area inside the circle as the Blue Zone. Building on this work, Buettner and a team of scientists, often including Pes and Poulain, pinpointed other longevity hotspots worldwide and dubbed them Blue Zones. The term "Blue Zones" became a brand and certification mark developed by Michel Poulain, Dan Buettner, and Giovanni Mario Pes when investigating people around the world living longer and better. The identification and certification of a Blue Zones area or group are based on demographic criteria that are country-specific and depend on available documentation and its reliability. Some of the well-known Blue Zones include: - Nuoro Province, Sardinia, Italy - Okinawa Prefecture, Japan (currently disputed) - Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica - Icaria, Greece - Loma Linda, California, United States The name "Blue Zones" originated from the blue circles drawn on the map by Pes and Poulain to represent the areas of exceptional longevity. Blue Zones, which are regions with more centenarians and fewer instances of chronic disease than anywhere else in the world, have been studied to understand the factors contributing to long and healthy lives. Regardless of location, the same nine lifestyle characteristics were identified across all five Blue Zone environments, which are known as the "Power 9®" principles. These principles include: - Move Naturally: The world's longest-lived people do not "exercise" in the traditional sense but engage in regular, low-intensity physical activities. - Down Shift: Blue Zone residents have daily rituals that reduce stress and reverse the inflammation associated with stress, such as prayer, napping, and happy hour. - Belong: People in Blue Zones tend to belong to a faith-based community, which has been linked to longer life expectancy. - Right Tribe: Health behaviors are contagious, and Blue Zone residents "curate" social circles that support healthy behaviors. - Eat Wisely: Blue Zone diets are plant-based, with a focus on whole foods, legumes, and healthy fats. - Purpose: Blue Zone residents have a strong sense of purpose, investing in family and keeping their minds engage. - Social Networks: Blue Zone communities strategically bring together people who are ready to change their habits and set up a network to spread the lifestyle. - Design: There is a huge opportunity to affect health through building design, creating environments that promote physical activity and social interaction. Plant-Centric Diet One common thread among Blue Zone residents is a predominantly plant-based diet. Their plates are filled with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes. By consuming fewer animal products and focusing on plant-based foods, they benefit from a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which promotes longevity and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Eat Healthy Fats Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, are known to benefit brain health and slow cognitive decline by preserving cell membrane health and encouraging communication between brain cells. Olive oil is a great source of both, but it's recommended to opt for extra virgin olive oil, as it retains more of its nutritional value since it has not been refined. A diet rich in healthy unsaturated oils, nuts such as walnuts, and fats found in fruits like avocado is crucial for warding off fatigue and improving energy and vitality. Fat is the most energy-dense of the macronutrients, and omega-3s also help promote blood circulation in the brain, which can help you feel more alert. Omega-3s are vital for normal brain function and development, and low levels of omega-3s may accelerate brain aging and contribute to deficits in brain function. A new study found that DHA and EPA, given in a combined supplement at prescription levels, improved cognitive function in older adults with heart disease. Another study found that having at least some omega-3s in red blood cells was associated with better brain structure and cognitive function among healthy study volunteers in their 40s and 50s. Drink more tea Drinking green tea is a popular practice in Japan, which is home to one of the world's recognized Blue Zones. In Japan, 72.3 percent of people drink green tea daily, which is packed with polyphenols, antioxidants that help protect the body against disease and slow down the natural aging of the brain. Green tea is also a potent anti-stress tool, containing an amino acid called L-theanine, a known relaxant that triggers the production of dopamine and serotonin. Black tea is also beneficial for heart health, thanks to theaflavins, which help lower cholesterol, and flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. However, its nutritional value diminishes when you add milk, sugar, or sweetener. Portion Control In these regions, portion sizes tend to be smaller compared to Western diets. Eating mindfully and stopping when satisfied, rather than overeating, is a common practice. This habit supports healthy digestion and weight management. Portion sizes tend to be smaller compared to Western diets, and people eat mindfully, stopping when satisfied rather than overeating. This habit supports healthy digestion and weight management. People in Blue Zones eat an impressive variety of garden vegetables when they are in season, and then they pickle or dry the surplus to enjoy during the off-season. The best-of-the-best longevity foods are leafy greens such as spinach, kale, beet and turnip tops, chard, and collards, combined with seasonal fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and beans that dominate Blue Zones meals all year long. People in Blue Zones don't overfish the waters like corporate fisheries that threaten to deplete entire species. Fish is not a necessary part of a longevity diet, but if you must eat seafood, elect fish that are common and not threatened by overfishing. The Blue Zones diet includes mostly whole, plant-based foods, and limited meat and animal products. People in Blue Zones consume about the same amount of naturally occurring sugars as North Americans do, but only about a fifth as much added sugar. They consume sugar intentionally, not by habit or accident. The cornerstone of a longevity diet is beans, and people in Blue Zones eat them regularly. Moderate Alcohol Consumption People in Blue Zones drink alcohol moderately and regularly, with one to two glasses per day with friends and/or with food. Centenarians from the Blue Zones regions of the world often drink up to two glasses of wine every day as a way to "downshift" from the stressors of daily life. Wine in moderation has been shown to be beneficial if consumed as part of a Mediterranean diet, which is defined by a high consumption of beans, greens, nuts, olive oil, and whole grains and a low consumption of meat and processed foods. Drinking a glass of wine with a plant-slant meal and a group of your closest friends can only enhance the experience and the benefits. However, it's important to note that there is plenty of debate around touting alcohol as something that's beneficial to health. Excessive alcohol intake over time, and alcoholism at the extreme, is devastating to health. Drinking alcohol, moderately, judiciously, and responsibly can still actually lower your overall health risk, depending on who you are. Regular Physical Activity Leading an active life is second nature to Blue Zone residents. They engage in daily physical activities, such as walking, gardening, or other forms of low-intensity exercise. Regular movement not only keeps their bodies fit but also promotes mental well-being. Incorporating movement into daily routines, rather than setting ambitious fitness goals, can have significant health benefits. Blue Zone inhabitants prioritize natural movement and short bursts of activity. It doesn’t necessarily have to be “ambitious exercise:” in a study published by Nature Medicine, short bursts of activity (like running up the stairs) that were measured using wearable tech devices were found to be beneficial in staving off ill health. The results revealed that those who partook in short but intense bouts of movement reduced their heart disease mortality risk by 50 percent and their risk of death from cancer by around 40 percent, compared with those who did no vigorous activity. Although it might not feel like you’re doing much, this kind of movement is enough to stress the cardiovascular system, which increases your oxygen uptake and prevents your cardiac arteries from clogging. Here are some tips to help you integrate movement into your daily life: - Move naturally: Instead of intense workouts, focus on regular movement throughout the day. People in Blue Zones walk to their destinations, do manual labor, and engage in activities that require physical effort. - Short bursts of activity: Research published in Nature Medicine found that short but intense bouts of movement, such as running up the stairs, can reduce the risk of heart disease mortality by 50% and the risk of death from cancer by around 40%. These "exercise snacks" can be as effective as longer, more sustained workouts. - Find activities you enjoy: Incorporate activities that bring you joy and require movement, such as dancing or tai chi. This not only helps with cardiovascular health but also improves cognitive function. - Make small incremental changes: Start by adding small increments of movement to your daily routine. This could be taking the stairs instead of the elevator or adding a few gentle stretches to your pre-bedtime routine. - Aim for 150 to 300 minutes of activity per week: According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, the overall goal is to aim for 150 to 300 minutes of activity per week. This can be achieved through a combination of structured exercise and daily movement. Strong Social Connections Social bonds play a significant role in Blue Zone communities. Maintaining close-knit relationships with family and friends provides emotional support and reduces stress levels. Positive social interactions are believed to be a key factor in their longevity. Being around other people is also key to better brain health. When we interact with others, blood circulates to different parts of the brain to help us listen and formulate responses. Constantly using the brain in this way increases the connections made between brain cells and the neural circuits that are used. The more active and adaptive these are, the harder it is for neurodegenerative diseases to get a hold. Here are some tips for building community and social interaction into your life: - Join a club or group: Find a group or club that aligns with your interests, such as a book club, hiking group, or volunteer organization. - Attend community events: Attend local events, such as farmers' markets, festivals, or concerts, to meet new people and engage with your community. - Connect with neighbors: Get to know your neighbors by hosting a block party or organizing a neighborhood clean-up. - Volunteer: Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and give back to your community. - Stay in touch with friends and family: Make an effort to stay in touch with friends and family, whether it's through phone calls, video chats, or in-person visits. - Prioritize face-to-face interaction: While social media and texting can be convenient, prioritize face-to-face interaction whenever possible to build deeper connections with others. Purpose and Meaning A sense of purpose is deeply ingrained in the lives of Blue Zone inhabitants. Whether through work, hobbies, or community involvement, they have a reason to get up every day. Having a sense of purpose contributes to mental resilience and overall life satisfaction. A sense of purpose is deeply ingrained in the lives of Blue Zone inhabitants, contributing to mental resilience and overall life satisfaction. They are engulfed in activities and communities that allow them to immerse themselves in a rewarding and gratifying environment. In most Blue Zone cultures, this concept of purpose, this idea of “why I wake up in the morning,” is an integral part of their culture. Okinawans call it ikigai, and Nicoyans call it plan de vida. Studies have shown that having a strong sense of purpose can impact health and longevity for the long haul. A recent study published by the Journal of the American Medical Association linked a strong sense of purpose with a lower risk of all-cause mortality after age 50. The study followed about 7,000 adults over the age of 50 and found that participants who had the lowest life-purpose scores were twice as likely to have died than those with the highest scores. Here are some tips for finding your sense of purpose: - Do an internal inventory: Think about your ideals, principles, standards, and morals. Consider your talents and what you love to do. - Mine your life story: Look for major threads and themes that reveal your lifelong gifts, passions, and values. - Create a clear purpose statement: Your purpose statement should energize you to get up each morning with intention and joy. Envision the impact you’ll have on your world as a result of living your purpose. - Take the Purpose Checkup: This tool can help you clarify your gifts, passions, and values and give you a measure of the power of purpose you are experiencing in your life at present. - Find purpose in hobbies and volunteer work: Purpose doesn't necessarily have to be found through your career. It could be found in your hobbies, the volunteer organizations to which you donate your time, or the garden in your backyard. Stress Reduction Blue Zone residents have developed effective stress management techniques. Whether through meditation, prayer, or relaxation practices, they have found ways to reduce stress, which is essential for preventing chronic illnesses and promoting overall well-being. Residents of Blue Zones have developed effective stress management techniques that contribute to their overall well-being and longevity. These techniques include: - Downshifting: Blue Zone residents engage in daily rituals that help them reduce stress and reverse the inflammation associated with it. These rituals vary and can include activities such as prayer, ancestor veneration, napping, and happy hour. - Gardening: Spending time in the garden and engaging in garden-related activities have been found to be excellent distractions from worrying thoughts and can lead to a decline in depressive symptoms. - Prayer and community involvement: In times of stress, Blue Zone residents, such as Adventists, turn to prayer as their biggest stress reliever. They also spend optimal amounts of time giving back to their communities, which can help take their minds off stress. - Physical activity: Blue Zone residents deviate from modern practices like gyms and virtual training sessions. Instead, they engage in activities such as housework, manual duties in the yard, and visiting friends and family on foot, embedding movement into their daily lives. - Taking breaks and getting outdoors: Incorporating personal routines that include taking breaks, getting outdoors, and energizing with physical activity can help Blue Zone residents shed daily stressors. - Laughter and social connections: Blue Zone residents prioritize laughter and social connections, which can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Sleep Quality Quality sleep is a non-negotiable aspect of Blue Zone life. They prioritize consistent, restful sleep, which is crucial for physical and mental health. Sleep is when the body repairs and regenerates, contributing to longevity. In Blue Zones, people prioritize a great night's sleep and understand its importance for overall health and well-being. Good quality sleep reenergizes brain cells, repairs skin, and strengthens every major system in the body, including the immune, respiratory, endocrine, and central nervous systems. Naps are also a priority in Blue Zones, with experts agreeing that the right kind of nap (around 20 minutes is optimum and never after 3 p.m.) can not only restore a sleep deficit but also improve concentration, mood, and energy. As for healthy nighttime habits, sticking to a regular sleep schedule of set times and getting between seven and nine hours of sleep per night all contribute to better overall health. Here are some tips for improving your sleep quality: - Create a sleep-friendly environment: Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Use earplugs, eye shades, or white noise machines if necessary. - Establish a bedtime routine: Engage in relaxing activities before bed, such as reading a book or taking a warm bath, to signal to your body that it's time to sleep. - Limit exposure to screens: The blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with your sleep. Avoid using screens, such as smartphones or tablets, for at least an hour before bed. - Avoid caffeine and heavy meals before bed: These can disrupt your sleep and make it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep. - Manage stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to help relax your mind and body before bed. The Blue Zone habits may not involve any secret potions or elusive elixirs, but they are undoubtedly the keys to a longer, healthier life. These undetectable yet potent practices have been quietly sustaining generations in these remarkable regions. By adopting these habits—emphasizing plant-based diets, moderation, physical activity, social connections, purpose, stress reduction, portion control, and quality sleep—you can unlock the secrets to a life brimming with vitality and longevity. So, as you embrace these subtle yet transformative habits, you may find yourself on a path to a Blue Zone-inspired, healthier future. Cheers to a life well lived.  Read the full article

[biketalkla]

Cohosts Seamus, Taylor, and Nick read listener email.

6:44 on.soundcloud.com/5aGsc Into The Blue: A company redesigns cities for biking as part of making them like "Blue Zones," the places where people live longest. With Dan Burden, Director of Inspiration and Innovation, Blue Zones LLC.

26:34 on.soundcloud.com/T4Qqm Kindermoord, American Style: A ribbon cutting at an unprotected bike lane on a busy street prompts LA Streetsblogger Liz Schiller to ask, "Why do we love our cars more than our children?" With Bike Talk cohost Taylor Nichols. la.streetsblog.org/2023/08/15/why-…ve-our-children

37:24 on.soundcloud.com/fmvmr Scooters V. Climate Change: A Lime executive discusses micromobility's inclusion in California's Low Carbon Fuel Standard program. Calvin Thigpen, Director of Policy Research at Lime, with Bike Talk cohost Seamus Garrity.

[toskarin]

Do you know any good sound effect libraries?

listing cds would probably be a bit more trouble than you're looking for, so here's some a couple sites

you can go a long way with freesound, provided you're okay digging through unusable recordings to find exactly what you're after and editing them a little. same goes for opengameart (but do mind the licenses for uploads on both of these)

zapsplat is good if you want a bit more quality control (albeit it requires attribution if you don't have a gold account, in contrast to the many cc0 sounds on the previous options, and has some noteworthy caveats on the license)

beyond that there's bluezone corporation's free sounds, the sonniss GDC packs, and mixkit

if you want some fun cds to hunt anyway, check out the Distorted Reality libraries (horror/paranormal essentials here)

[kingmakerpod]

4 and 8! I see those vagueposts about colette's fashion sense 👀

Honestly, as a novice sound designer, every episode gives me a new challenge and that keeps everything consistently interesting for my ADHD ass, so the easy answer to what the most fun episode to work on would be "the last episode I worked on". Which as of writing this was episode 11. This is my first time using walker 2, I'm incorporating some sound packs from Bluezone that I really, really love, and @jam-does-audio (who created the knocking sounds that served as the vouksanir's footsteps in episode 4) has developed us an all new sound pack for the Kingmaker which sounds SO good you guys. 11 might also be my favourite from a writing standpoint, but I can't really say why without spoilers. (wink)

Genuine answer: I want to dress her in more blues and greens. Both for character development reasons (those are thematically Eisen and Telsie's colours) and because they compliment her complexion nicely. I just normally draw her in pink and purple because I was an animator first and I sometimes forget that characters can have more than one outfit. I also am going to introduce some more menswear into her wardrobe in season 2- once again, for character development reasons. Silly answer: There's this reddit poster who made a collage of pull quotes from her autism diagnosis, they're all things like "subject is very interested in minecraft", "frequently uses the phrase 'girl boss'", etc etc, and I think if Colette was around in the modern day and she went to fashion design school she would do something like that and screen print it onto an asymetrical gown. kind of like the one Emma Stone wore in Cruella that was covered in newspaper articles.

[ricisidro]

#Ikigai is a Japanese term that means “a reason to live."

It's a concept that encourages people to discover what truly matters to them and to live a life filled with purpose and joy.

The book Ikigai:The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Francesc Miralles and Hector Garcia — is about the lives of the inhabitants of #Okinawa, #Japan with high number of centenarians which was also featured in the #Netflix docuseries Live to 100: Secrets of the #BlueZones (2023) based on Dan Buettner's book @BlueZones.

#HealthyAging #LiveBetterLonger #Longevity