9 Tips for Longevity

These tips are based on the habits of blue zone populations, as published in the IDEA Fitness Journal in February 2011.

1. Make regular activity intrinsic to your daily routines
2. Have a "Plan de Vida" i.e. a mission or purpose that give meaning to your life.
3. Take your life out of the fast lane: work less, slow down, rest, take vacations.
4. Eat less by following the "80% rule" (stop eating when you're 80% full).
5. Shift your diet to more vegetables and fruits, less protein and fewer processed foods.
6. Drink red wine in moderation.
7. Create a healthy social network.
8. Cultivate spiritual and religious beliefs and participation.
9. Make family a priority.

The researcher Buettner said in the article "We see from the blue zones and aging research in general that these behaviors are associated with longer life - and the same things that can help you to a healthy 90 or 100 can get you there better. They don't just add years; they're vital, enriching years.