This article originated with Deutsche Welle (DW), an international media outlet based in Germany, on June 12, 2022. Blue Zones are regions worldwide where people live longer than the average. There are five blue zones worldwide - Okinawa, Japan; Nicoya, Costa Rica; Loma Linda, California; Sardinia, Italy; and Ikaria, Greece.


In 1980, Okinawa, an island in the Pacific Ocean that is part of Japan, had the longest life expectancy of any place on Earth. Unfortunately, that is changing. What habits had the Okinawans incorporated into their lives to live so long? Researchers conclude it is a combination of a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and the support of family and the broader community, which translates into having purpose throughout your life. It is not uncommon to see Okinawans in their 90s living independently, disease-free.


The younger generation does not practice this combination in their 21st-century lives. Life is in the fast lane, albeit a less healthy one, and the fast lane has caught up with them. The average life expectancy for a woman is currently 87 years instead of 94 years. A male born today will live 80 years on average now when the past average was 84 years.


This article centers on Makoto Suzuki, an 89-year-old Okinawan who studies the reasons behind the islander's longevity. He says that "the life expectancy of the people of Okinawa is coming down quite rapidly, and we believe the problem is that younger people have failed to follow in the footsteps of earlier generations." Outside lifestyle choices, especially American ones, are enticing to youth. There are American military bases on the island, and many personnel living there. Perhaps, not unsurprising, many younger Okinawans now regularly eat fast food, watch hours of television each day and lead a more sedentary lifestyle.


The traditional Okinawan diet comprises vegetables, local fruit, tofu, and fish dishes. Meat was seldom the main star of the meal, infrequently served at most. Suzuki says, "when I was a boy, we had meat about once a week, and that is a habit I have stuck with to this day." He also was active each day by walking, climbing, and archery. In adopting a more "western" lifestyle, the phrase "hurry, hurry, hurry" is now common in Okinawan culture. The days of outdoor activities as a family are gone now. All these factors combined have changed the lifestyle and how long Okinawans live.


Another aspect of Okinawan longevity is "ikigai," a purpose or reason for living. Suzuki is a clinical cardiologist at 89 and continues to work part-time like many in his age range. He visits sick people, referring to them as his friends, not just patients. Pointing out that his mother lived to be 105, he plans to stay busy his whole life because it gives him a reason to live.


I retired five years ago. I did not know it at the time, but I was very concerned about my "ikigai." How could I continue to participate in the mainstream of life? I have found many activities that serve other people, animals, friends, and family that keep me busy and give me a reason for living. That is my "ikigai."


Perhaps this story could inspire you to make changes in your life. Rebalancing our priorities could add years to our lives. Talk with your local community centers and healthcare practitioners about creating holistic lifestyle classes for the community, teaching them how to eat better, exercise, and find their "ikigai." It's not difficult to do, and doing it with a group of friends or friends you haven't met yet might make it fun too.

Photo by Victor Deweerdt on Unsplash.