I was looking for some advise on how to live forever. I haven't been able to figure out how to cheat death, but I did find a lot of simple information on people who have lived past 100 years and were happy, vital and seemed to have lives full of purpose.
The people that live in Hojancha, Costa Rica, are some of the healthiest, longest-lived populations on the planet.
Some simple Costa Rican secrets for living a long life.
Have a strong sense of purpose - Costa Rican centenarians have a clear mission in life, what they call a plan de vida. They feel needed and want to contribute to a greater good.
Drink hard water - Nicoyan water has the country’s highest calcium content, which perhaps explains the centenarians’ lower rates of heart disease, as well as stronger bones and fewer hip fractures.
Keep a focus on family -Nicoyan centenarians tend to live with their families, and children or grandchildren provide support and a sense of purpose and belonging.
Eat a light dinner -Eating fewer calories appears to be one of the surest ways to add years to your life. Nicoyans eat a light dinner early in the evening. Their traditional diet of fortified maize and beans may be the best nutritional combination for longevity the world has ever known.
Maintain social networks -Nicoyan centenarians get frequent visits from neighbors. They know how to listen, laugh, and appreciate what they have.
Keep hard at work - Centenarians seem to have enjoyed physical work all their lives. They find joy in everyday physical chores.
Get some sensible sun -Nicoyans regularly take in the sunshine, which helps their bodies produce vitamin D for strong bones and healthy bodies. 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 ensure you’re getting enough of this vital nutrient.
Embrace a common history -Modern Nicoyans’ roots, among the indigenous Chorotega, and their spiritual traditions have enabled them to remain relatively free of stress.
Read about the longest living people in the world and their secrets for a happy life.
Adapted with permission of the National Geographic Society from the book The Blue Zone: Lessons for Living Longer Freom the People Who's Lived the Longest - Dan Buettner. Copyright © 2008 Dan Buettner.
