Back to Basics
I recently watched Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones on Netflix. I read the book many years ago, but the documentary was a good reminder of what journalist Dan Buettner learned when he visited the healthiest communities in the world. There are only four episodes so it’s a quick watch!
My biggest takeaway was that we make things too complicated.
Getting back to basics is the healthiest way to live.
Here are five general things that each community had in common:
- Move naturally. People walk more and drive less. They also lean on everyday household tasks for exercise, such as house cleaning and gardening.
- Eat wisely. They enjoy whole foods like fruits and vegetables, stop eating when they’re 80% full, eat with family and friends, express gratitude before the meal, and most importantly drink a little bit of wine!
- Right outlook on life. They have stress, but their daily rituals help them unwind and decrease inflammation from that stress.
- Purpose. They belong to faith-based communities, volunteer, have hobbies, and use creativity to express themselves.
- Know how to connect. They put family first, keep aging parents nearby, and they invest in their children and their immediate social circle.
Doesn’t that sound like a lovely way to live? 😊
The reality for me is that at this stage of my life, it isn’t always possible. But I have found myself attempting small changes for a back to the basics lifestyle.
What are some things you can do to simplify your life for the better? I’d love to hear about your journey if this appeals to you!
As always, have a great week and keep learning!
Jen
