Costa Rica -- a blue zone of longevity

Map from ezilon

The Nicoya peninsula of northern Costa Rica is a blue zone -- a place with more centenarians than elsewhere. People here enjoy their lives and age in a healthy way.

Long-lived people have certain habits in common. They work hard and drink plenty of water. The "rich coast" is a country where local water is not only safe to drink, but chock a block with the minerals the body needs.

Costa Ricans also eat fresh healthy meals that diminish in size as bedtime approaches. Gallo Pinto, the national dish, is made of rice and beans, and eaten for breakfast. Local fruits like papayas, pineapple and passion fruit are tasty and health-giving.

Right: Gallo pinto with egg and fried plantain

Blue zone inhabitants enjoy strong family ties. Their willing devotion to community through a plan de vida that keeps them strong and vibrant. Costa Ricans retire early and rise at dawn. They enjoy the feeling of sunshine on their skin, and benefit from the Vitamin D it provides.

Pura vida! This Costa Rican salutation says it all. The English translation is pure life.