Lessons in Healthy Living from Exotic Destinations

By Stepy Kamei

Given the current state of the world right now, it's a sad fact of life that we can't just simply up and travel to whatever exotic destination we'd want to visit. However, as we practice social distancing and continue to stay safe indoors, we can flavor our lives with the culture and meals of faraway lands. At the very least, this will serve to keep things exciting and interesting as we navigate a new normal and create different routines for ourselves. However, we can also look to foreign cultures for advice on how to live a healthier lifestyle -- especially when it comes to our diet. Now, more than ever, it's crucial to learn everything we can about creating a healthy diet and routine for ourselves.

The Blue Zone Diet

Scientists and health experts alike have found certain areas in the world tend to have a higher life expectancy than others. These "Blue Zones" include regions of Japan, Greece, Italy, and Costa Rica.

While these zones are spread out across the globe, they each tend to place an emphasis on fresh, whole ingredients in their meals. Blue Zones tend to avoid large amounts of red meat, sugar, and salty foods. Instead, the people living in these areas tend to eat well-balanced meals made of fresh ingredients, including plenty of fresh vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins such as fatty fish and nuts. Meanwhile, foods which are highly processed, packaged, or brimming with salt and artificial sweeteners are often avoided as much as possible.

Other Aspects of Healthy Living (Modified for Social Distancing)

The cultures living and thriving in Blue Zone areas tend to do more than just eat healthy. They also place an emphasis on staying physically fit by exercising regularly, as well as making time for social connections and reducing stress with positive coping mechanisms.

Obviously, in these times, some of these practices need to be adjusted. Fortunately, there are plenty of free exercise videos easily available on YouTube which you can follow along with while you stay safe at home. It's also a good idea to get outside and go for a walk at least once a day in order to reduce stress while improving circulation throughout the body.

While you may not be able to physically see your friends right now, you should still make it a priority to talk to them on the phone as often as you can. It's important to stay connected to people you care about, and who care about you, while in isolation.

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Mansfield, Tex.