In The Blue Zones: The Secret of Living Beyond 100 Years, Dan Buettner explores the lifestyles and habits of people in regions where exceptional longevity is common. These areas, known as Blue Zones, have the highest concentration of centenarians—people who live to 100 years or more.

Nicoya (Costa Rica)

Located in the northwest region of Costa Rica, Nicoya is part of the Caribbean sphere and is known as the poorest of all the Blue Zones. Despite facing challenges like limited access to clean water and modern sanitation, the people of Nicoya lead physically active lives. Their daily routines—farming, wood cutting, and other manual labor—keep them constantly moving. Interestingly, the local water contains the highest calcium levels in the country, which may contribute to their lower rates of heart disease, stronger bones, and fewer hip fractures.

Plan de Vida – A Purpose-Driven Life

A strong sense of purpose, known locally as Plan de Vida, plays a crucial role in the lives of Nicoyans. Staying socially active and having meaningful daily goals help maintain their emotional and mental well-being.

Calorie restriction also appears to play a role in longevity. Nicoyans typically eat their main meal earlier in the day and enjoy a light dinner in the early evening. Their traditional Mesoamerican diet—rich in the “three sisters” of agriculture: corn, beans, and squash—has nourished generations of long-living residents.

Though they may lack material wealth, Nicoyans possess something far more valuable: the joy found in simple pleasures, daily accomplishments, and strong community ties.

These are some other habits identified that has benefitted the community with longevity making them one of the Blue Zones in the world.

Nicoya is the fourth region and next week we will go through the fifth region and their secrets and what we can learn from them.

Watch this space it might be the most important lesson in all of our lives…