why is nicoya, costa rica a blue zone

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. This goes along with the decision to widen the country's tourism offerings and venture into industries with high potential, such as wellness tourism. In Nicoya, Costa Rica, where average incomes are among the nation's lowest, the average lifespan is 85 among the world's highest. Nantipa means blue in the language of the Chorotega people, some of the first known people to live in the Nicoya region. Win-win! 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. Add the red onions, sliced radishes, tomatoes, orange supremes, cilantro and 3 tablespoons oil to the cabbage. Offering barefoot luxury on Playa Langosta this family-owned boutique hotel is a 15-minute walk from downtown Tamarindo. O que so Zonas Azuis? A "Blue Zone" is a region of the world where people commonly live past the age of 100 years.In "Blue Zone Nicoya Peninsula", residents live even longer than those in other areas of Costa Rica. Moderate alcohol intake, especially wine. The baby turtles hatch 45 to 54 days later and, if theyre lucky, might live another 50 to 80 years. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. There are 5 Blue Zones around the world, one of which is located on the Nicoya Peninsula; the others on the list are Sardinia in Italy, Okinawa in Japan, Loma Linda in the United States, and Icaria, in Greece. Rare species like pumas, ocelots, and margay cats make their home here too. Are you interested in learning more about the Costa Rica Blue Zone and other zones of the world? These cantons are: Carillo, Hojancha, Nicoya, Santa Cruz, and Nandoyure. 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. Physical activity, diet, good mineral-rich water, friends, a satisfying job, eating light in the evening, and a "plan de vida" are the other aspects. Speaking of work, finding work/life balance is a constant challenge for many. Get some sensible sun. The Ikarians and the Ikaria is another one of the Blue Zones, and the Costa Ricans, Nicoya, they're taking a nap. 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. This treasure includes the atmosphere around you." To understand some of the reasons why Blue-Zoners live healthier, longer lives, let's take another look at Ricardo's daily routine. If coming from San Jose, the easiest way to get to the Nicoya Peninsula is to take the ferry from Puntarenas. 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. In parallel, and with the purpose of generating public policies, a Framework Cooperation Agreement in order to establish, promote and support the Blue Zone in the Nicoya Peninsula. Nicoya is a small, rural beach community located on the Guanacaste peninsula on the northwest coast of Costa Rica. Nicoya was introduced as a Blue Zone in a 2004 National Geographic article by Dan Buettner. The volcanic beach has calm swimming in Bahia Ballena (despite the name, whales are no longer frequent visitors), and theres birdwatching and hiking along the Rio Panica. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. These commitments also included mechanisms to develop best practices in health promotion in the "five blue cantons" of the Peninsula, strengthening support networks, and incentivizing the recuperation of life lessons and traditions. Predominantly catering to families, this 402-room property has four restaurants, including for surf and turf and Japanese, two pools, a nightclub, and a 200-seat amphitheater. Costa Rica is known for its pura vida lifestyle and attitude. I had visited the famous Costa Rica "must-see" spots - Arenal, Manuel Antonio, the cloud forest, the Osa Peninsula - some of them a few times. 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 traditional diet in the area is also notable. Nicoyan centenarians get frequent visits from neighbors. Get your fill of fresh fruits like pineapple, mango, papaya, banana, and passionfruit and vegetables and legumes like squash, cassava, plantain, yam, and beans. It includes black beans, cooked plantains, fresh papaya, yams, squash, homemade corn tortillas, and fish (if near the coast). In other words, people in these zones to live longer than any other areas in the world. The peninsula is one of the worlds five Blue Zones where many people live exceptionally long and healthy lives. Almost 40 percent of the residents of the Nicoya Peninsula (about 5,000 of the population of 132,000) are over the age of 75, more than 900 are over the age of 90, and many are over 100. The reason why they are called "blue zones" is a curious story Check out all of our favorite travel companies. Another is a focus on family and a special ability to listen and laugh. Down on the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica's Blue Zone, visitors can book into a yoga retreat, eat freshly caught fish, go surfing and ride horses along the beach. 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. These include Nicoya, Costa Rica; Loma Linda, California; Ikaria, Greece . 1 - The Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica. This Central American nation isnt that far from the U.S. geographically, but it is way ahead of us in longevity. We are always happy to help you out! Nicoyans eat a light dinner early in the evening. 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. The 9 Secrets Boosting a Long Life in Nicoya, Costa Rica: They have a strong sense of purpose No matter how old they are, Nicoyans have a strong sense of purpose, a reason to live longer. 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. Join 19k+ subscribers in receiving FREE travel advice, news & promotions! Having worked with the pioneers in mind-body research and psychoneuroimmunology. Black beans contain high doses of antioxidants and they are eaten for almost every meal among Nicoyans (and most Costa Ricans). Required fields are marked *, car rental deal! March 2nd, 2023. Moais are a powerful social tradition that create feelings of belonging, purpose and security. Were Thomas (the German) and Sarah (the US-er). About two hours down the coast from Tamarindo is Nosara, Nicoyas yoga center (the Nosara Yoga Institute here offers teacher training). Now, visiting Nicoya doesnt mean youll automatically live to 100, but a trip there is likely to put you on the path to pure life thanks to its natural environment and abundance of healthy activities. They have groups of friend with whom they share healthy habits.". 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. 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. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. 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. Most residents here live to be over the age of 90 and there's a high number of centenarians as well. And here are two great reports done that will give you a better understanding of the Nicoya people, area, and mindset. - save 10% Plus other perks . The Peninsula is covered by spectacular beaches that host nature's best. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. Brand Storytelling At Sundance: Championing Excellence And Filmmakers With Purpose, Profitable ECommerce Growth For CPGs Is In Reach. Some sea turtles have even lived to age 150. Thomas Ramsauer / Shutterstock. Long-living creatures like sea turtles are frequent visitors to the Blue Zone too. 11 talking about this. 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. Actually, it is home. We have obtained information from Nicoya, Costa Rica on ways to live longer and be happier. 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. In one of Buettner's most recent visits to Costa Rica, he defined Blue Zones as "a kind of lifestyle and environment that creates longevity. Nicoya is located on the Guanacaste peninsula in Costa Rica, and is considered one of the 7 blue zones found worldwide. Conzcanos. But other factors are at play, especially in Nicoya, an 80-mile peninsula just south of the Nicaraguan border. We can no longer afford to allow the COVID pandemic to cause us to live in or out of a place of fear. It is also one of the world's Blue Zones. For those who want to explore the peninsula at their own pace, renting a car might be best (you can use your home countrys drivers license for a maximum of three months). While starting the day off with rice and beans may not be an ideal breakfast for most people, the key to a healthy breakfast is one rich with protein, complex carbs, and antioxidants (minus the preservatives). A three-course farm-to-table dinner with a tour of the organic garden is available Mondays and Thursdays. It helps them remain positive. Having a Blue Zone helps strengthen the country's constant striving for quality of life, both for Costa Ricans and for tourists. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. We must make the health of future generations our responsibility by implementing the lifestyles of the Blue Zones people now. I have been exploring the data reported by National Geographic and Dan Buettner in the Blue Zones Solution: . 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. 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. If you would like to be near things but get a bit more of a feel for traditional Nicoya life while also enjoying a bit of the touristy perks (surfing, fun restaurants etc.) 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? "This meeting commits us to preserve this Blue Zone, but most importantly, it should have a multiplier effect and serve as an example for the other cantons of the country" said Ana Monge, Commissioner of the Presidential Social Council of the Government of Costa Rica. 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. It is the reason why the founder of Omega Institute set up Blue Spirit in Nosara and a Longevity center. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Throughout the world, the average life expectancy is 71 years of age (70 for males and 72 for females). That's why this part of Costa Rica is designated a Blue Zone, the term used for just five areas of the world where people live extraordinarily long and vibrant lives. Within Nosaras lush forest and a three-minute walk to Guiones Beach, this small hotel has a daily yoga class plus private yoga instruction, surf lessons, a large pool, hammocks, and a juice and coffee bar. Still planning? Nicoya, Costa Rica: A Puzzling Blue Zone Diet Light on Vegetables and High in Carbohydrate and Sugar. However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent. Join 19k+ in receiving Expert travel advice, news & promotions! A stay at Nantipa will help you have a true Blue Zone adventure, especially if you book its transcendental wellness experience. Even in areas like Nicoya, this has been replaced with the ease of processed meals and fast food (although there are very few fast food options in Nicoya in my experience). It includes the five cantons of the Nicoya Peninsula: Hojancha, Nandayure, Carrillo, Santa Cruz and Nicoya. Lane cites the impact of COVID-19 on minorities like Blacks and Hispanics throughout Chicago. There are plenty of good-for-you activities to keep you busy on the Nicoya Peninsula jump in the water with a surfboard or snorkel, get up high on a zipline, stretch out with a yoga class, or take a hike (call it forest bathing if you wish) in a nature reserve. Nicoyan centenarians tend to live with their families, and children or grandchildren provide support and a sense of purpose and belonging. They have been able to exceed their life expectancy and serve as an example for the entire world. Dinner is typically a light meal, consumed early in the evening which allows plenty of time for digestion before bed. I also suggest watching his TED Talk. 4. 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. 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. 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. Most people in this area never move. According to the most recent data from the Ministry of Health, this region will be painted blue for many years to come, as over 900 people over 90 have been recorded, along with over 5,000 inhabitants over 75, the majority of whom enjoy good health in their old age. In an article in the Chicagoan, Marc J. The Adobe Rent-A-Car discount includes.. DISCOUNTED SMARTPHONE USAGE WITH UNLIMITED DATA. 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. Nicoyan water has the countrys highest calcium content, perhaps explaining the lower rates of heart disease, as well as stronger bones and fewer hip fractures. Nicoyan centenarians have been the focus of many articles. 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. Even the cancer rates on the Nicoya Peninsula are lower than those elsewhere in the world! All Rights Reserved. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Even the cancer rates on the Nicoya Peninsula are lower than those elsewhere in the world! It is not unusual for many generations to live on one property or in very close proximity to each other. The term first emerged in 2005 in a Nation Geographic magazine cover, "The Secrets of a Long Life.". "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. ", For Belgian researcher Michel Poulain, one of the most important message of the World Meeting of Blue Zones is to tell the world that "Costa Rica has a treasure of longevity in the Nicoya Peninsula, that comes from the past generations, which has been built year by year. One of the five designated blue zones in the world, the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica features residents who live even longer than those in the rest of the country. If youre eating a standard American diet, its probably shaving about six to 10 years off of your life expectancy, Buettner says. The Nicoya Peninsula has several on offer, including near Tamarindo, outside the Cabo Blanco Reserve near Playa Mal Pais, and above the Montezuma waterfall. 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. This vigorous village is one of the Blue Zones' unique hotspots. Sardinia, Italy. Nicoyans regularly take in the sunshine, which helps their bodies produce vitamin D for strong bones and healthy body function. Meat, fish, and poultry only make up 5% of the usual diet. He added that "we must somehow emulate, duplicate or copy the lifestyle of centenarians, and their way of living, but above all, their environment, diet, activity; above all, the connections they make, human connections, not technological ones. However, altering your diet, increasing the amount of exercise you get in a given day, and embracing relationships with family and friends are good places to start. Complex carbs provide the energy a person needs to get through the day. Meanwhile, last year the average individual from the United States ate 222.2 pounds of meat and poultry. Nicoya has an abundance of accommodation options but these selections should help your Blue Zone focus whether its healthy food, yoga, spa, surfing, and hiking, connecting with family, or getting a sense of purpose by helping protect Nicoyas wildlife and their habitat. Nicoya, Costa Rica A Latin American Blue Zone. 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. Here are some of the factors that make Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula a blue zone worth visiting. It is a template outlining the lifestyles of people who live in places like Nicoya, Costa Rica. Reporter Dan Buettner closed by saying "it is a great honor to see the results of the idea of researching the issue of longevity that emerged fifteen years ago is coming to fruition in the meeting of the major scientific researchers on the subject of Blue Zones." Blue Zones Nicoya naci en 2014, una empresa 100% costarricense, que durante los ltimos 6 aos ha sido destacada por la investigacin de alimentos locales de la Zona Azul de Nicoya-Guanacaste. He has written numerous books on the topic, but I suggest starting with: Blue Zones of Happiness and The Blue Zones Kitchen (a cookbook). 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. 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. Many believe it will be through the cutting-edge innovations of regenerative medicine that the privileges of the Blue Zones can be democratized, so that anyone, anywhere, and at any time has access to the technology that allows us to replenish, replace and rejuvenate our physical bodies., What weve witnessed during 2020 are healthcare systems around the world that are reactive, bureaucratic, inefficient, and saturated. By encouraging Nicoyans belief community and sense of purpose through work, family, or nature, cities could help their poorest thrive. These characteristics are: Despite this, it is believed that 30% of a long healthy life comes from genes and 70% is based on lifestyle. This healthy breakfast gives them the nutrients they need for a day of tending crops and livestock. There are two trails for visitors and a pristine white sand beach. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. For the first time ever, the world's most prominent researchers shared their knowledge and most recent research on the topic of Blue Zones. Many of us in Western countries know we need to eat less junk and add more natural food to our diets. Costa Rica indeed does celebrate its elderly citizens; every person who has a 100 th birthday is . It consists of 100 recipes with ingredients used by those who live in Nicoya, Costa Rica and the other four Blue Zones. Face-to-Face Conversations. They begin each meal with a prayer. 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. For most of their lives, Nicoyan centenarians ate a traditional Mesoamerican diet highlighted with the three sisters of agriculture: squash, corn, and beans. According to Buettner's studies, the Nicoya Peninsula has the world's lowest rates of middle-age mortality and the second highest convergence of male centenarians. . Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. The Caribbean nation is economically secure and has excellent health care. Blue Zones: Lessons For Living Longer From The People Whove Lived The Longest. Loma Linda, California. The world has a number of Blue Zones, areas where the locals live healthier and longer lives. The people of Nicoya value their families a lot, and you can often see them joking with their neighbors, working hard for long hours, and enjoying the sunshine. Buettner's studies on the Nicoya Peninsula revealed eight key factors that affect people's life expectancy. "The sense of community, shared purpose and celebration and appreciation for life in all its forms allows for a way of thriving that can even be seen today to have a connection to vitality and mitochondrial health." Nicoyans attribute much of their longevity to social values of faith and family. 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. Old people often have too little calcium in their bodies. So why is it that the people of Nicoya outlive so many others? The most southerly point is Cabo Blanco Reserve and the south coast also has the town of Tambor. Of course, there is still a desire for success (especially in the cities) but in general, the priorities are shifted. Spirituality and religious involvement/ beliefs. 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. 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. Is the Nicoya Peninsula good for a Wellness getaway? "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. These places are full of one-hundred-year-olds who have reached such like live wires, not in bed or in hospital. Its difficult to maintain family bonds and friendships when school and work take us far from home, into strange communities. San Jose, Costa Rica 10104. Learn more about typical diet with our Guide to Costa Rican Food. Personally, I find that a combination of a healthy diet, exercise, and social contact all help lower my stress; which is crucial in a long life span. Surprisingly, happiness and keeping a focus on family are two of the main components. Healthy and supportive relationships with friends and family are another one of their keys to longevity. The Power of Nine is the name Buetnner has given to the characteristics that all Blue Zones seem to share. Soltara Healing Center is located on the calm and pristine Gulf of Nicoya in the mountainous jungle of Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula. Costa Rica is one of the few tropical countries where its safe to drink tap water even for foreigners and theres no need to buy plastic water bottles. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. 3 International Psychedelic Retreats Poised To Take Wellness Travel Into the Future, The Most Romantic Couples Massages in Las Vegas, The 20 Happiest Countries in the World, 2022, What Its Like To Stay at Hilton Head Health, One of Americas Most Renowned Wellness Resorts, 5 Types of Meditation That Will Relieve Your Travel Stress, long-life characteristics of the Nicoya Peninsula, How To Move To Costa Rica and Live There on the Cheap, These Stunning Cabins Are the Ultimate Zion National Park Basecamps, 8 of the Coolest Airbnbs Near Disney World, Orlando, 8 La Condesa Airbnbs To Settle Into Mexico Citys Coolest Neighborhood, The 11 Absolute Best Beaches in Costa Rica, This Luxury Hotel Has Transformed a Plane Into a Suite in the Costa Rican Jungle, A Guide To Feeling Your Best as a Plus-Size SpaGuest, The Best Airbnbs in Venice, From a Rialto Flat To a San Marco Studio, Download the If you want to get underground, Barra Honda National Park has a system of 42 caves and you can explore Terciopelo Cave on a tour.

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