By TCRN STAFF October 5, 2022 528 0 If coming from San Jose, the easiest way to get to the Nicoya Peninsula is to take the ferry from Puntarenas. Costa Rica indeed does celebrate its elderly citizens; every person who has a 100 th birthday is . 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. The distinguished list included pioneering researchers on this subject: Michel Poulain of Belgium, Dr. Gianni Mario Pes and Paolo Francalacci from Sardinia, Italy, Christina Chrysochoou from Icaria, Greece, Makoto Suzuki from Okinawa, Japan, Gina Siapco from Loma Linda, USA, and Diego Bernardini from Argentina. Toss gently. Drain and pat the onions dry with paper towel. You may opt-out by. The forest here is more tropical than further north and is home to deer, pacas, monkeys, armadillos, laughing gulls, pelicans, frigates, and brown boobies. Jorge Vindas, Costa Ricas Blue Zone expert, says that its a combination of good genes, healthy food and water, regular low-intensity exercise, few vices, a strong connection to family, putting importance on religion or spirituality, and having a sense of purpose. This provides the nutrition they need to work hard during the day. "The five cantons of the peninsula continue to appear with greater longevity and we've confirmed this everywhere we've investigated. The way Nicoyans choose to live their lives gives us a template from which we can learn to improve our health and find our sense of purpose. However, Costa Rica's blue zone is so much more. This calcium leads to stronger bones and the ability to stay physically active at a later age. We can start making healthier choices today, thus living more enriching lives and encouraging others to adopt similar healthy ways of living. Living Hotel partners with the Spacio spa, a five-minute walk away, which has several treatments geared to surfers. Having a Blue Zone helps strengthen the country's constant striving for quality of life, both for Costa Ricans and for tourists. 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. Would you like to visit the Nicoya Peninsula? Lunch is the main meal in Costa Rica (its better for your digestion to eat a bigger breakfast and lunch and a lighter dinner). Perhaps youll also figure out your lifes purpose, which studies show contributes to a longer and higher quality life, and make the effort to reconnect with family whether youve brought them with you or will see them again once youre home. Due to the Nicoya Peninsula's location in Central America, the area has an abundance of warm days with tons of sunlight. Required fields are marked *, car rental deal! La Senda has a 2.5-acre labyrinth with a two-mile-long path (said to be the biggest in the world) as well as horseback riding. Ed #2798 Oficina #8 I cant blame you. The Nicoya Peninsula has several on offer, including near Tamarindo, outside the Cabo Blanco Reserve near Playa Mal Pais, and above the Montezuma waterfall. It includes the five cantons of the Nicoya Peninsula: Hojancha, Nandayure, Carrillo, Santa Cruz and Nicoya. Meanwhile, last year the average individual from the United States ate 222.2 pounds of meat and poultry. Speaking of work, finding work/life balance is a constant challenge for many. Hi! Demographers have identified the area, located on Costa Rica's northern Pacific coast, as a Blue Zone or "longevity hot spot," typified by a higher-than-normal number of people living past the age of one hundred. So why is it that the people of Nicoya outlive so many others? Brand Storytelling At Sundance: Championing Excellence And Filmmakers With Purpose, Profitable ECommerce Growth For CPGs Is In Reach. Eco-tourism is a natural must in this out-of-this-world scenario, where everything that happens is in a quiet, lovely pace. Who knows, maybe it will change your life! 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. As of now, there are 5 blue zones: Icaria, Greece. It is also one of the world's Blue Zones. 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. The Caribbean nation is economically secure and has excellent health care. The Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica is one of the five areas in the world that hold the distinguished classification of a Blue Zone. Some sea turtles have even lived to age 150. Still planning? My fourth investigation into exactly what our Blue Zone folks eat has left this dietitian, well, intrigued. In terms of a definition, these zones are geographical areas with a high concentration of long-lived populations, who frequently reach ninety or one hundred years of age. For more information read our privacy policy. But other factors are at play, especially in Nicoya, an 80-mile peninsula just south of the Nicaraguan border. The town of Nicoya is considered the oldest in Costa Rica, it is popularly known as "the colonial city". The Caribbean nation is economically secure and has excellent health care. Possessing the highest density of biodiversity of any country in the world, it is also labeled as one of the 5 "blue zones", a term coined by National Geographic author Dan Buettner, describing places where a high percentage of the population lives active . These regions are considered Blue Zones. These factors are present, to some degree, in the other four Blue Zones in the world, according to world experts who participated in the World Meeting in Nicoya in mid-November. Learn more about typical diet with our Guide to Costa Rican Food. The Nicoya Peninsula has five cantons where middle-age morality is lowest and centenarians are the most abundant. They have been able to exceed their life expectancy and serve as an example for the entire world. Pablo Jenkins, a regenerative investor and futurist explains that it is a great time to take on that wisdom from the local ancestors and combine it with new regenerative ways of living. Feel free to leave them in the comment section below. These Blue Zones have a direct link to the promotion of tourism in the country, since it fits in well wellness tourism. In a few, unique communities around the globe, people live long and heathy lives, up to and past 100. Blue Zones Nicoya desarrolla alimentos, bebidas y suplementos inspirados en los centenarios de la. Stir in two chopped plum tomatoes, half of a finely chopped onion and one . 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." A nine-hole golf course is a mile away. These cookies do not store any personal information. Are you interested in learning more about the Costa Rica Blue Zone and other zones of the world? They have groups of friend with whom they share healthy habits.". So, having extra-hard water may help keep Nicoyans' hearts strong, and longer. The surroundings dictate ways of operating, not personal decisions. This treasure includes the atmosphere around you." It helps them remain positive. Offering barefoot luxury on Playa Langosta this family-owned boutique hotel is a 15-minute walk from downtown Tamarindo. 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. All rights reserved. In the interior, the town of Nicoya is one of Costa Ricas oldest and also has one of the countrys oldest churches the Parroquia San Blas, first built in 1544. There are five areas of the world that meet the qualifications of Blue Zone as defined by Buettner. He cautions though that one of the reasons Nicoyas centenarians live so long is that they dont have high incomes, which means theyve had to do physical labor since they were young, their meals are light and mainly of vegetables and legumes, and they cant afford a lot of protein or processed foods. Going down the west coast from Tamarindo youll find several beach towns, most notably yoga center Nosara and surfers paradise Santa Teresa. Nicoyan centenarians get frequent visits from neighbors. Moais are a powerful social tradition that create feelings of belonging, purpose and security. The term Blue Zone was first used in a 2005 National Geographic cover story entitled The Secret of Long Life written by a man named Dan Buettner. Why Nicoya is Considered One of the Anti-Aging Zones in the World Few really know what aging is and how it can be controlled, here experts from Costa Rica and around the world talk about it and define the Nicoya Peninsula as one of those with the most long-lived people. Blue Zone is a term created by author Dan Buettner, building off of research by demographers Michel Poulain, Ph.D., and Giovanni Pes, Ph.D. Nearby are waterfalls at Montezuma, ziplining near the Cabo Blanco Reserve, and kite surfing. Nicoyans often live more than 100 years and Nicoya boasts of the highest number of centenarians in the world. 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. Nicoyans regularly take in the sunshine, which helps their bodies produce vitamin D for strong bones and healthy body function. First . Calles 27 & 29, Ave 2, They find joy in everyday physical chores. "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." But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Costa Rica is home to one of the five original blue zones regions, the Nicoya peninsula, with a high number of centenarians in excellent health. Moderate alcohol intake, especially wine. There are common factors that exist in these populations, such as good physical and mental health, a healthy traditional diet, respect for the family, deep faith, constant mobility, and a purpose in life. Everywhere you go in Costa Rica, youll hear pura vida! and soon feel the freedom to adopt the pura vida lifestyle yourself. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. And here are two great reports done that will give you a better understanding of the Nicoya people, area, and mindset. 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. Research shows that 30% of longevity comes from genes, and the remaining 70% from lifestyle. Nicoya was introduced as a Blue Zone in a 2004 National Geographic article by Dan Buettner. 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. This goes along with the decision to widen the country's tourism offerings and venture into industries with high potential, such as wellness tourism. The agreement was signed by the Vice President of Costa Rica, Ana Helena Chacn, as well as ministries and institutions of the government and the mayors of the cantons of Nicoya Peninsula: Nandayure, Hojancha, Carrillo, Santa Cruz and Nicoya. The reason why they are called "blue zones" is a curious story The heart is a muscle, and all muscle contractions depend on calcium. For most of their lives, Nicoyan centenarians ate a traditional Mesoamerican diet highlighted with the three sisters of agriculture: squash, corn, and beans. For just over 15 years he has been monitoring and accompanying the long-lived people that . One is the plan de vida, or reason to live, which propels a positive outlook among elders and helps keep them 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.) We do not need to wait for our cities of residence to adopt the principles for healthier living outlined in the Blue Zones Project. Long-living creatures like sea turtles are frequent visitors to the Blue Zone too. 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 Adventists are praying. In other words, it lives longer than the average global life expectancy. Another option is to take the 75-minute ferry across the Gulf of Nicoya from Puntarenas to Paquera. We are always happy to help you out! Eating fewer calories appears to be one of the surest ways to add years to your life. Full of natural beauty, endless sunlight, white beaches and radiant ocean, Nicoya reigns as one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica. This has paid off, with Costa Rica frequently scoring high in world happiness and environmental rankings. The peak nesting time is from August to November and in the days before a new moon, thousands of turtles congregate in the Pacific waiting for the perfect time to come ashore and dig a hole to lay their eggs. They first noticed that people in several villages on the Italian island of Sardinia were living well into their 90s and 100s and that they had few significant mental or physical health problems. 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. 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). Check out all of our favorite travel companies. "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. The peninsula is one of the worlds five Blue Zones where many people live exceptionally long and healthy lives. 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. 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 Were Thomas (the German) and Sarah (the US-er). It consists of 100 recipes with ingredients used by those who live in Nicoya, Costa Rica and the other four Blue Zones. Lane reported isolation, alienation, and high rates of depression in Chicagos poorest neighborhoods as some of the reasons behind the high rates of COVID cases. Nicoya, Costa Rica. 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. Book a transfer from your hotel, opt for a shuttle or public bus, or take a domestic flight to one of the peninsulas larger towns. Costa Rica is generally a healthy country because its government decided that education, healthcare, and protecting the environment are more important than funding its armed forces and it abolished its army in 1948. 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. LIKED THIS? A "Blue Zone" is an area of the world where it is typical for people to live past 100 years old. Without a doubt, this is a challenge for the next generations, in the context of the world's age pyramid turning upside down, with ever more senior citizens. We're going to focus on the last one, mostly because it hits close to home. The Ikarians and the Ikaria is another one of the Blue Zones, and the Costa Ricans, Nicoya, they're taking a nap. The Nicoya Peninsula is on Costa Ricas north Pacific coast. Maintaining close ties with family and friends helps reduce stress. The expat community in Coco is generally older retirees, however, there are some younger expats running around. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Nicoya is a small, rural beach community located on the Guanacaste peninsula on the northwest coast of Costa Rica. All Rights Reserved. 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. Cities throughout the world can use this template to encourage people to live healthier lives. Compreende os 5 cantos da Pennsula de Nicoya: Hojancha, Nandayure, Carrillo, Santa Cruz e Nicoya. When on vacation in Costa Rica, its also easy to pick up Blue Zone habits like getting regular outdoor exercise and a good nights sleep (though be sure to go to bed early if you want to do your sun salutations at actual sunrise). Nicoya, Costa Rica is one of those unique locations where lifestyle, diet, and low stress have dramatically bettered the lives of Ticos and expats alike. 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. The baby turtles hatch 45 to 54 days later and, if theyre lucky, might live another 50 to 80 years. Also, calcium is important for bones. 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. But the simplest truth is that what one needs is to sleep eight hours every night, eat a nutritious, plant-based diet during a six-hour period to give your pancreas an 18-hour break until your next meal, and be at peace with everything and everyone all of the time, he adds. The five known Blue Zones identified in Buettner's book include:. BOOK YOUR COSTA RICA RENTAL CAR AND SAVE 10%. 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. It is a template outlining the lifestyles of people who live in places like Nicoya, Costa Rica. 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. Access to natural foods and organic fruits and vegetables (stables of the Nicoyans) is difficult to come by. Blue Zones, those special places on earth where people live longer and healthier lives, first came to prominence in the ground-breaking book by Dan Buettner, Blue Zones. Costa Rica Experts 2023. They are places where people get around by walking more than by car, they eat more plants than meat, and a diet that includes beans or grains such as corn, where the family is their number one purpose. People often consider the impact of global decisions on future generations through legislation. The Adobe Rent-A-Car discount includes.. DISCOUNTED SMARTPHONE USAGE WITH UNLIMITED DATA. You can hike along trails, go horseback riding, kayak through the mangroves, and swim off the beach. 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. If youre eating a standard American diet, its probably shaving about six to 10 years off of your life expectancy, Buettner says. Guevara lives in the Nicoya peninsula of Costa Rica. Several of Nicoyas beaches like those in the Ostional National Wildlife Reserve are nesting grounds for Kemps Ridley, green, and leatherback turtles. Rare species like pumas, ocelots, and margay cats make their home here too. It was a spontaneous decision to move here, but it was the best decision! 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. Montezuma: Best Hotels in Costa Rica. These geographical areas are considered special, because most people live at least 90 and often over 100 years of age. The template laid out in the Blue Zones Project: natural foods, daily movement, community, and sense of purpose, can help anyone develop stronger immune systems, so they can live healthier and longer lives. There are other blue zones in California, Italy, Greece, and Japan. 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. Specifically, the rural landscapes of the Nicoya Peninsula, where people have some of the longest lifespans in the world. Nicoyans regularly take in the sunshine, which helps their bodies produce vitamin D for strong bones and healthy body function. 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). This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. San Jose, Costa Rica 10104. In the southern part of the peninsula, Santa Teresa is a popular surf area that sprawls for miles along the coast. Directions: Toss the cabbage with the orange juice, season with salt and pepper and let sit 30 minutes. Costa Rica is generally a healthy country because its government decided that education, healthcare, and protecting the environment are more important than funding its armed forces and it abolished its army in 1948. To understand some of the reasons why Blue-Zoners live healthier, longer lives, let's take another look at Ricardo's daily routine.