Are physically active throughout the day getting around over steep, rough terrain.

What we can do:

Get 30-60 minutes of exercise daily, either outside or by joining a class. This keeps us fit and lean and is good for bone and cardiovascular health.

In Nicoya they…

Have a reason for getting up each morning. They have a positive view of life and a strong work ethic. Work has meaning in Nicoya and other longevity hot spots since it is done for the family and has immediate, tangible benefits.

What we can do:

Think about what you really want to do and pro-actively find ways of doing it. Making a plan for the day can be helpful if we are feeling unmotivated.

In Nicoya they…

Enjoy being with and providing for their families and remain close to one another.

What we can do:

Try to make time for family and look after older members of the family by giving them tasks, encouraging them to stay active, and making them feel needed.

In Nicoya they…

Breathe fresh ocean breezes and clean mountain air.

What we can do:

Try to spend time in the outdoors in unpolluted areas on weekends and when on vacation.

In Nicoya they…

Have a low-stress (though active and busy) lifestyle in a beautiful location where it is sunny, people are friendly, and music is often playing.

What we can do:

Try to make time to relax and de-stress and to visit places and people just for the pleasure of it. Put music on in a traffic jam and sing along. Stay busy but keep within our limits.

In Nicoya they…

Are very sociable and drop in on each other regularly.

What we can do:

• Make time for friendships and try to enjoy the company of other like-minded people.

In Nicoya they…

Get plenty of anti-cancer, bone-friendly vitamin D from being out in the sunshine.

What we can do:

Try to get 20 minutes of  safe sunlight daily (use sun block).

In Nicoya they…

Belief in God gives them a sense that a greater power exists.

What we can do:

Practice our faith or explore our spirituality.

In Nicoya they…

Are not distracted by television or radio and go to bed at dusk and get up at dawn.

What we can do:

Try to keep regular sleep patterns to ensure restful sleep. Have an ‘electronic sundown’ by turning off the television earlier in the evening, or find another relaxing activity.

(from http://www.alongerhealthylife.com)

I read an article in the Wall Street Journal (11/26/16) about Travis Rice, a professional snowboarder.  In the interview he mentions that he is a strong believer in healthy food as preventative medicine and was quoted, “It’s sad because I think so much of the way we operate in America is we all just eat preservatives, sugar and terrible food,” also “Simply eating good food is one of the most punk rock things you can do.”  I checked out his You Tube videos and he clearly moves over steep terrain-yikes!