LIVING IS BETTER TOGETHER
Did you know community living can add years to your life?
Community living and strong social connections are directly linked to increased longevity and overall well-being, a finding supported by research into "Blue Zones." Psychologist Susan Pinker, in her book *The Village Effect*, highlights that consistent face-to-face interaction is crucial for living longer, retaining information, and experiencing greater happiness. These principles are evident in the five "Blue Zones" identified by researcher Dan Buettner, where communities foster active lifestyles, a sense of purpose, and strong social networks, contributing to a higher concentration of centenarians.
According to multiple research studies, social connection is directly related to longevity.
Researcher Dan Buettner set off to find areas around the planet where the most healthy older adults live. Known as Blue Zones, five regions were discovered with more centenarians than anywhere else on earth.
WHAT’S A BLUE ZONE?
In Buettner’s book The Blue Zones, he highlights five areas where people live longer, healthier, and happier lives:
- Okinawa, Japan
- Loma Linda, California, USA
- Ikaria, Greece
- Nicoya, Costa Rica
- Sardinia, Italy
Psychologist and author Susan Pinker was so intrigued by the Blue Zones she visited Sardinia to find out more. In her book The Village Effect, Pinker gives insight into the true benefits of being part of a community.
“If we don’t interact regularly with people face-to-face, the odds are we won’t live as long, remember information as well, or be as happy as we could have been,” Pinker explains in her book.
The not-so-secret ingredients of a longer life are:
ACTIVE LIFESTYLE: Keep busy each day doing what you love. Take a walk, hike, or garden.
FOOD: Enjoy plant-based diets of produce, nuts, lower calories, and smaller portion sizes, making sure to get plenty of protein, calcium, and water.
PURPOSE: Contribute to something that fulfills you and brings feelings of joy.
COMMUNITY: Stay connected to family and visit with friends often.
At Sequoia Living, you will find the same common ingredients as the Blue Zones. Active people gravitate to our communities where healthy individuals have the social networks necessary to live longer, more purpose-filled lives together.
What is Ikigai and How Does it Enhance Retirement Longevity?
What is Ikigai, and how does it add to your longevity? Many experts credit Ikigai as the secret to a long life filled with joy and purpose.
