Costa Rica, a beautiful country located in Central America is known as the place with one of the only five blue zones in the world. “Blue Zones”, a term created by National Geographic’s Dan Buettner, who led a team of scientists to discover why people in some areas of the planet live longer and healthier lives than the rest of us. Nicoya, Costa Rica, was one of the sectors studied.
The scientists studied Nicoya Peninsula, not only as a whole, but mainly focusing on the rural landscapes of the Nicoya, where people have some of the longest lifespans in the world. People that live in Nicoya have proved that they live long and extraordinary lives due to some key factors, mainly their social, economic, and lifestyle ways.
When it comes to lifestyle, families tend to eat larger meals at lunchtime and lighter meals early in the evening. They likely will always eat all together at least once a day to interact with those they love. The interaction and good food is just a bonus since the food is low in added sugar, and there are few processed snacks. Studies have linked diets that are lower in calories to longer lifespans.
The water may also be a factor that affects longevity in this region. This is because the water of the Nicoya Peninsula is high in calcium and magnesium, contributing to low osteoporosis rates and low rates of heart disease.
Not only are the natural resources useful for the physical health of the citizens of Nicoya but their secret goes beyond healthy eating.The one thing all Nicoyans in this Blue Zone have in common is having a positive mindset. When faced with adversity, the most common advice given by each citizen is to look at the bright side, pick yourself up, and keep going.
Besides its Blue Zone, Costa Rica is known for its countrywide Green Season. The Green Season is the most beautiful time of the year. It is characterized by the lush scenery, the rich and happy wildlife, and all the flowers in bloom. After a long, dry summer, the Green Season is every Costa Ricans favorite time of the year. It brings cool breezes, cool mornings and afternoons, and an excuse to stay in to enjoy a nice
calm evening.
This is not only the most calm and lush season but it is also characterized by the recollection of coffee. The coffee is just-picked, freshly dried, and ready to be roasted. It is then sold in both grocery stores and small family markets. It is one of the many reasons why this is the best season to buy locally grown coffee and for any coffee enthusiast, the best season to enjoy tasting various of Costa Rica’s delicious
varieties of it.
Whether it is because of its Blue Zone or its Green Season, Costa Rica is truly a wonderful place to live in. Life, and every experience in between, can be categorized as rich, splendid, and educational for every citizen and tourist.
By Daniela Álvarez, Class of 2024.