Off the southern coast of the Japanese mainland lies a series of islands that carry the secret to longevity. The people of the Blue Zone of Okinawa are known for their long lives and wellness, with a life expectancy much higher than the global average.
There are many factors that are thought to support the longevity of Okinawans, from their natural surroundings and healthy diet, to their sleeping habits and positive mindset born from island culture. Here are some of the lessons we can learn from the people of Okinawa to live a longer life.
Ground Ourselves And Each Other
One of the most important secrets of the Okinawan people is their strong commitment to friends and family. They cultivate a powerful social network known as a “moai,” which is a lifelong circle of friends that provides support well into old age. These safety nets offer both financial and emotional assistance during times of need, giving members the comforting reassurance that there is always someone available to help them.
In addition to strong social support, living a low-stress life is crucial for longevity. Okinawa has many words that express a community-oriented and low-stress mindset. For example, the phrase “nankuru nai sa” means “things will work out somehow.” This concept can be particularly helpful for reducing stress during challenging situations.
Sleeping Better For A Longer Life
A healthier sleep and a clearer mind are major contributors to the longevity of the Okinawan people. The Okinawan household has very little furniture; residents take meals and relax sitting on tatami mats on the floor. The fact that old people get up and down off the floor several dozen times daily builds lower body strength and balance, which help protect against dangerous falls.
Using Tatami mats for sleeping on the floor offers a supportive surface that aligns with ergonomic design principles, promoting proper spinal alignment during sleep. This helps individuals who practice floor sleeping on Tatami maintain a neutral spine position, thereby reducing the risk of waking up with discomfort or pain. Additionally, the tactile experience of Tatami mats, combined with their natural material made from Igusa Rush, fosters an environment that promotes relaxation and reduces stress.
Eating With Longevity In Mind
For Okinawans, food is more than just sustenance; it is a way of nurturing body and spirit. The term nuchigusui means “medicine of life,” a philosophical concept used to refer to cuisine and other aspects of life in Okinawa. The local cuisine is a balance of simplicity, nutrition, and flavour. These simple, home-cooked stir-fries feature a plant-based diet consisting of stir-fried vegetables, sweet potatoes, and tofu are high in nutrients and low in calories.
Many of these vegetables are also made using natural homegrown vegetables. Almost all Okinawans cultivate their own garden. This is a source of daily physical activity that exercises the body with a wide range of motion and helps reduce stress. It’s also a near-constant source of fresh vegetables.
Simple Living, Longer Living
It promotes a sense of simplicity and tranquillity, aligning with the broader lifestyle practices of Blue Zone communities. By prioritising simplicity, nature, and ergonomic design, individuals in these regions exemplify how embracing ancient practices like Tatami floor sleeping can hold the key for those seeking to enhance their own well-being and longevity.
