3 Secrets to Living Longer From Costa Rica – Unusual Places

When humankind faced the idea of mortality many moons ago, someone probably wondered: What if we could live forever? Longer, happier lives have become an obsession with many, especially in this age of health anxiety. 

Blue zones may hold the secrets to achieving more fulfilling, if not eternal, lives. One such haven is Costa Rica, the Central American wonderland that eternally attracts tourists.

The term “blue zone” first became popular in 2004. Dan Buettner, a National Geographic explorer, used the phrase to describe places where more people live longer and fuller lives. Recently, the BBC reported how these communities have ingrained cultural traditions that foster a healthier lifestyle. Costa Rica also benefits from governmental policies that boost sustainability and ecotourism. 

Today, Costa Rica is one of the six global blue zones. The Blue Zones Project notes that the people here live longer: the average age is 85, but you’ll meet many centenarians. Let us learn from the community and adopt some of these secrets.

#1 Load up on Whole Foods

“Dieting” is a standard recommendation for anyone trying to get fitter. We consider it akin to cutting portions and avoiding carbs. However, blue zones recommend something else: not necessarily eating less but choosing differently.

Costa Rica has an abundance of food options to delight every palate. Many locals love casados, or traditional dinner plates with meat, beans, rice, and vegetables like squash. Seafoods like shrimp, homemade tortillas, and sweet bananas are ubiquitous. 

As you can see, the locals enjoy hearty meals, but their preferences are whole, homemade foods. In some ways, the eating habits are close to a “planet-first” diet, which emphasizes foods that limit environmental damage. You’ll end up eating a rainbow: fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes, all of which connect to a longer life. 

The local diet is a treasure trove of healthy eating habits, which travelers can also benefit from during their stay. Domo Hotel recommends that holidayers enjoy a fresh fruit smoothie whipped up in the kitchen space, in the backdrop of Mediterranean architecture and the melody of birds. The naranjilla, or the native tropical citrus fruit, can be utterly refreshing. It also contains Vitamins A and C, besides aiding digestion.

It can be…