The gift on everyone’s list that always fits - Blue Zone keys to live a longer, healthier and happier life

At the holidays, we spend countless hours in search of the perfect gift for the people we love. In a world focused on material possessions, there is a gift so valuable that its true worth often goes unnoticed. The gift of good health.

Of course, when you or someone you care about is struggling with health issues, the gift of good health becomes even more visible, more valuable. But good health isn’t merely the absence of illness – it’s also a state of well-being that allows us to pursue our passions and dreams. 

Earlier this year, HonorHealth launched the Blue Zones Project in collaboration with the City of Scottsdale. It’s a bold move for a hospital system that exists to treat people when they are ill. But it’s grounded in our mission to help improve the overall health and well-being of the communities we serve. 

I’m particularly interested in the Blue Zones Power 9® - nine habits and traits that are a common denominator for pockets in the world where people live longer, healthier, happier lives. Consider these gifts you can give yourself to contribute to your own well-being:

1. Move naturally. Walk the dog, take the stairs, garden or whatever regular movement you can sustain for a lifetime.
2. Purpose. Knowing your personal reason for getting up in the morning can add up to seven years to your life. 
3. Downshift. Stress leads to chronic inflammation, associated with major age-related disease. We can’t escape stress; but we can manage our response to it by practicing medication, prayer or remembrances.
4. 80% rule. Eat until you are 80% full and eat your smallest meal in the evening to avoid weight gain.
5. Plant slant. Reduce the amount of meat you consume in favor of a primarily plant-based diet. 
6. Wine at 5. Red wine in the early evening, consumed moderately with friends and food, is another habit found among centenarians.
7. Belong. Your faith-based connections support health and well-being. Attending your services of choice four times per month can add 4-14 years of life expectancy.
8. Loved ones first. Put your family first. Commit to a life partner. Care for your aging parents if you can do so. Gather your family regularly.
9. Right tribe. The world’s longest-lived people have enduring social circles that help shape their healthy behaviors.

It starts with embracing a holistic approach to well-being. Nourishing our bodies with wholesome foods, engaging in regular exercise and nurturing mental health through mindfulness are foundational steps toward a healthier lifestyle. Start by picking just a couple of the Power 9 that are important to you and make them your new habits. Then add a few more. 

Additionally, regular, proactive health check-ups and screenings ensure we detect and address potential issues before they escalate. 

Good health is a treasure that enriches our lives, providing the strength and resilience needed to navigate our life’s journey. It is not only a personal gift, but a communal one. A healthy, thriving community benefits form increased productivity, creativity and a sense of unity. 

For this holiday season and the new year, I wish you good health and well-being.