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Okinawa, a Japanese island region, has the highest concentration of centenarians (people aged 100 or older) in the world. Inhabitants of Okinawa are healthier than others. They have much lower cancer rate and a lower risk of heart disease.

Spiritual Lifestyle

A spiritual lifestyle is a key to Okinawians' long and healthy life. Their lifestyle includes prayer and meditation that reduce stress-and ailments related to it... >>>

Healthy Eating

Healthy eating is another key to Okinawians' health and longevity. They practice hara hachi bu, or eating until 80% full. The Okinawa high-fiber plant-based diet is based on rice, soy, cruciferous and sea vegetables, fruit, omega-3-rich fatty fish, and only a tiny bit of dairy and meat.

Sense of a Connected Community

Just as crucial to health and longevity is a sense of connection and community. "There is strong social support, family bonds, and a value placed on continuing to be active in society into your 80s, 90s, and 100s,. The sense of belonging matters for lowering stress, disease prevention, and longevity," says explorer Dan Buettner in his book The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who've Lived the Longest.