The people of Okinawa, an island southwest of Japan’s main landmass, are known for their longevity.
Anikigaiis one’s reason for being, or one’s purpose in life.
Older Okinawans can readily articulate the reason they get up in the morning.
Their purpose-imbued lives gives them clear roles of responsibility and feelings of being needed well into their 100s.
Rely on a plant-based diet.
Older Okinawans have eaten a plant-based diet most of their lives.
Their meals of stir-fried vegetables, sweet potatoes, and tofu are high in nutrients and low in calories.
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Almost all Okinawan centenarians grow or once grew a garden.
Its also a near-constant source of fresh vegetables.
The Okinawan diet is rich foods made with soy, like tofu and miso soup.
Flavonoids in tofu may help protect the heart and guard against breast cancer.
Fermented soy foods contribute to a healthy intestinal ecology and offer even better nutritional benefits.
The Okinawan tradition of forming amoai, or a gathering of people, provides secure social networks.
Spending time outside each day allows even senior Okinawans to have optimal vitamin D levels year-round.
Older Okinawans are active walkers and gardeners.
Plant a medical garden.
By consuming these every day, Okinawans may be protecting themselves against illness.
A hardship-tempered attitude has endowed Okinawans with an affable smugness.
Theyre able to let difficult early years remain in the past while they enjoy todays simple pleasures.
Theyve learned to be likable and to keep younger people in their company well into their old age.
