Health Around the World: Okinawa, Japan

We're heading to another island for our third stop on our trip! Remember how Sardinia had the world's longest-living men? Well, Okinawa has the longest-living women on the planet! Okinawa, a southern Japanese island, is known as the land of immortals. They have less heart disease, cancer, and dementia than Americans.

Let's see what healthy lifestyle qualities the Okinawans practice in daily life.

• Maintain a "Moai" - A moai is a group of lifelong friends and a social support group that provides varying support. It's a longevity tradition that came about hundreds of years ago and used to focus mainly on finances. Now, the idea focuses more on the social aspect. Traditionally around five children are placed together to form a moai and they would make a commitment to each other for life. According to Blue Zones, some moais have lasted over 90 years!

• Find your "Ikigai" - Similar to the other islands we have visited, the Okinawans focus on their purpose or reason to get up in the morning. Being able to identify this each day and recognize that they are needed, gives them drive.

• Grow a garden! - Not only does this mean access to fresh vegetables, but it's also a great stress reducer and source of full body exercise.

With Love,

The SNACK Program