Happy happy Monday, friends!
Okay, today, I’m going to *hopefully* not use too many words and bore you to death, but in my pursuit of encouraging us all to live our best lives (inside and out!), I am going to broach another topic that I’ve become pretty consumed with since around September. I’ve already shared that to date, my favorite book on health, wellness and aging is Outlive, but there is another book/Netflix series/phenomenon that has really changed how I look at my own life and the lives of my grandparents in particular…
…The Blue Zones.
In September, I shared that I had just finished the Netflix documentary series about The Blue Zones (featured above) and guys, it’s really changed how I look at my own lifestyle. I know that I will dive deeper into this topic as time goes by, but for now, I just wanted to share a few thoughts and encourage you out there who are also thinking about health and longevity to watch the Netflix documentary and/or read…
…the book 🙂 .
I have done both and feel the better for it. Not to give away any *spoilers* but if you don’t know what “blue zones” are, they are pockets all over the world where groups of people seem to live longer AND HEALTHIER lives (not just long lives, but they look/feel their best, are still physically very active, mentally sharp and have vibrant and valuable relationships with others. I mean, who doesn’t want that?
Peter Attia (who wrote Outlive) talks a lot about our last decade. We typically don’t know when our last decade will be. Maybe mine will be this decade (my 40s) or maybe it will be my 90s. I don’t know, but what I do know is that I want to feel my best that decade. I don’t want my last decade to be one of physical and mental decline. I honestly don’t really want to spend it in the hospital or as a burden to my family. If possible, I don’t want to spend it frail, sick and lonely. It’s not about living to be 100, it’s about living and feeling great regardless of age so that *hopefully* we can enjoy a quality of life even in our last decade.
(Seriously, don’t listen to me, I encourage you to read both books!)
That being said, these Blue Zones show that yes, genetics plays a role in every person (it always does), but peoples’ health and lives change as they move in and out of them (which would eliminate the genetic component and make it more lifestyle related…which also means that no matter your age, you can make lifestyle adjustments to better your quality of life at any time). The research shows that people who are thriving in a Blue Zone but then move away, suddenly show a decline in their wellness…and vice versa. People who move into these zones and adopt these lifestyles quickly improve their overall health and well being just by being there and living the lifestyle of that zone. The Netflix series and the book are both fascinating because it’s all about what they’re naturally doing in these parts of the world (climbing a lot of steps because of how the town is naturally built, eating indigenous foods grown there, etc).
So, yes, I thought this was fascinating, but how did I circle this back to thinking about my own family and lifestyle?
For me, it’s been…
…rethinking my grandparents’ lives, health and deaths (or not deaths).
I am 42 years old and up until recently, I have gone to every new doctor appointment and filled out their paperwork and had the same basic conversation.
Question: How many grandparents do you have living?
Me: One
Question: Cause of death of your grandparents?
Me: Cancer, old age, old age.
That’s it.
I changed my primary care physician in November and now try to see clinicians that have more of a functional medicine approach (meaning how do we discuss keeping you healthy versus let me only see you when you’re sick so that I can hand you a prescription without addressing lifestyle/the root of your health) and for the first time, I was asked “Why do you think your grandparents lived such long lives?”. In the past, doctors only wanted to note the 65 year old grandparent that died of lymphoma, but this was the first time a doctor said “let’s discuss why/how your grandparents lived such long and vibrant lives”.
Um, YES. Let’s think about that one for a minute!
I mean did genes play a role? Of course. They always do. Are my three longer living grandparents (and bonus grandpa pictured above) at all genetically related to each other? No. My longest living three grandparents might have imparted some of their “good” genes on me, but they are all very different and not genetically related, so it’s foolish not to look at their lifestyles and glean something from that as well. My new obsession with The Blue Zones and focusing more on my three grandparents’ lifestyles has really opened my eyes to little things they do/did that perhaps lead/have lead to not only their older age, but that they THRIVED physically, cogitatively, and emotionally in their later years and didn’t spend “that last decade” feeling terrible. Maybe I’m just late to the party here, but it really did make me stop and think harder about all of them and really try to learn from their lifestyles.
So, here’s a quick look at my amazing last three grandparents…
…this lady.
This lady, I could blog about for DAYS!
My grandmother is alive and well and just turned 87 this month. She has buried a husband and kicked cancer THREE TIMES. Not just three times but THREE TIMES ALL UNRELATED TO EACH OTHER (meaning her cancer never metastasized, they were all different and all caught at various stages where she had various treatments/surgeries to remove/prevent/deal with all of them). Two years ago this month, we were told that cancer #3 was the last one. We were told to sell her car (which her husband did), sit by her bedside (which we all did), say our goodbyes and count every holiday/special occasion as the “last” (which we did), and yet, she kicked cancer’s butt for the third freaking time. It was a yucky 8 months, and she went through nasty chemo (which we were told would kill her) and came out on the other side like A BOSS.
Good genes?
Maybe. Probably. You can’t count that out. But…
…was her body prepared to fight each time/heal/recover/fight more/stay strong and endure because of the healthy lifestyle leading up to every single cancer diagnosis where she was exercising, lifting heavy things, being super social, stretching, doing brain puzzles, reading books, playing golf, heading up committees at church and various charities, traveling, eating a lean diet, not smoking, not consuming junk, and getting out every day to do something productive probably a HUGE part in her ability to be so old (sorry Grandmother, but you’re no spring chicken!), get so sick and yet bounce back? I cannot think that it hurt one bit.
Will we ever know why she’s doing amazing now? No. Does it matter? Maybe? If I want to give myself the best chance at surviving hard things (not a guarantee but just a good chance and feel great while I’m doing it) maybe I need to make sure I’m checking many of those “Blue Zone” boxes like my grandmother was doing.
When she came to visit us on Nantucket this summer, (again, at 86½ she flew from Dallas to Boston, took a 1½ hour car ride and a one hour ferry to see us…and then back again when she left without any issues) one morning, Andrew and I came home from the gym and she had put away three loads of my family’s laundry (including walking up and down my very steep stairs), vacuumed my house, and had made bacon and eggs for breakfast (and cleaned it up). Um, HELLO?! I couldn’t believe it! Even *if* this is her last decade, how amazing is she living life right now? Isn’t that what we want?
So speaking of last decades, let’s chat about my dad’s parents. I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about them too over these last few months, and it’s naturally connected me to thinking about what I’ve learned from The Blue Zone book.
This was Mimi…
…Mimi passed away at 94 years old in October 2021. She and Andrew bonded dearly over their love for the New York Yankees. He took her to games any chance he could in Arlington, and he and my dad even took her to New York City once to see them play when she was 86 years old. She walked and took the subway the whole time. She lived and died in her own home and our last conversation (the day she died) was as clear and cognitively sharp as any conversation I’d ever had with her. The same goes for her husband…
…my Papa who passed away last January just three months shy of his 98th birthday. This photo above was taken 2 weeks before he died. We went over that day, and his house was super clean, he had made his bed with a ruler just like they taught him in the Marines, he had coffee going, was fully dressed and excited to see us, and we had a really long and detailed conversation. He walked us out, was fully mobile and then proceeded to text me a poem he wrote. You guys, this guy was SHARP and thriving just days before he passed. Who doesn’t want that?! I do, I do! I know it’s not a guarantee, but I just don’t think it hurts to strive for it.
When I think back to “Blue Zone” things both of my dad’s parents were doing, I think of details like that they were both active (he would run 3+ miles a day well into his 80s), they walked in their neighborhood, they went to church, they read all the time, she played the piano, they had people over, they made food at their own home and entertained, they worked in their yard, they were social, they did crossword puzzles, got out to do and see things, they laughed, they got dressed, they made their bed, they loved a card game, cheering for their sports teams and visiting family and friends. They didn’t just “die of old age” like I had previously thought, they lived full lives until it was just time for them to go. THAT is something that I wasn’t paying enough attention to. They had a lifestyle that encouraged a healthy life, and I want to lean into that.
So, I watched a silly series on Netflix, I read the book, and it opened my eyes to my grandparents’ life choices and how, at 42, I should start consciously thinking about my own little “blue zone” choices like taking the stairs, staying flexible, eating whole foods, staying connected with people, walking more, and on and on and on.
Whew! Long post, and a lot of words to sum up, watch the show and/or read the book if you are like me and wanting to dive deeper into a more focused lifestyle and not just hope for the best with your genetics 🙂 .
That’s it for this Monday! I would love to know if you’re a little Blue Zone obsessed too in the comment section! xx
Jess says
Yes! I too have been incorporating the blue zone lifestyle into mine. I’ve been making my own sourdough, drinking cannonau red wine on occasions, walking lots of hills in my area, leaning towards a Mediterranean diet. Lots of great ideas on TikTok of all places. I only have watched the Netflix series. Does the book have more information/recipes?? I’ll add it to my list! I love this kinda stuff so happy your blogging about it!
Natasha says
I’m no geneticist or health practitioner but I do think there might be something about, as much as possible, living life to the fullest. My grandma, who died at 104 years and seven months, fell in love again at age 103 (We were all so happy for her!!!), danced at my wedding at age 101, and planted a garden until she was 102. She lived in a small town and decided not to renew her driver’s license when she turned 100!!! Hahaha!!! But she absolutely loved people and was healthy until her last two months. Again, I highly doubt she lived in a “blue zone” but she was active and engaged until almost the very end. She was a HUGE example of living her best life.
Mix and Match Mama says
This comment gave me chills!! Wow! How absolutely amazing?!
Paige says
It has been on my list to watch!!! I hope I find time today to start it. I also have Outlive on my nightstand, after I finish Forever Strong by Dr. Gabrielle Lyon. Highly recommend!!
Kristen Thompson says
I watched the show and became kind of obsessed too! It’s all so fascinating and inspiring. Thanks for sharing!
Elspeth says
I have it one my watch list but haven’t watched it yet! Going to make an effort to begin it.
Thanks for the recommendation!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Laura says
Yes, yes! I was JUST trying to research more about it last night. I also loved the series. Now I may pick up the book! What’s challenging for me is seeing how it fits in our culture/life- the series focused mostly on other countries (hills to climb, farming, etc.) so I appreciate your examples of how to do it in suburban America! More examples or ideas always welcome if you want to share 😉
I think I also want to read Michael Pollen’s Defense of Food which is similar… and I was just reading about Michael Easter’s Tsimane Diet – the Tsimane tribe probably should also be called a Blue Zone!
Beth Knecht says
Ordered this book promptly this morning! Also, tell your grandma thank you for the reminder to stretch. While I stretch before and after running, I think I my 33 year old self needs to do it more while not preparing for a run.
My last grandparent is 90 years old and her health is declining. It is so heart wrenching to watch and so often now I keep thinking of getting older and what I want that to look like. Quality of life is so important and I’m going to try to implement more of these tips after reading the book!
Alicia says
I love reading about the Blue Zones, I always find it so interesting and motivating. Mark Hyman is a holistic MD and writes about this topic as well.
Lauren Sheaffer Sims says
Okay, I’m so happy there’s a series, because you know the chances of me reading the book are SLIM! 🙂
Colleen says
My great grandma lived to be 102, in her own home. She lived through the Great Depression and so much loss. I can’t say as a child I gleaned all her stories or life-giving tips. I remember her saying she ate lard sandwiches as a kid! What I remember the most about her was her complete and utter devotion to the Lord. They gave their lost money to the offering plate during the Depression despite having 4 young children at home (while being unemployed). The very next day her husband got a job. She led a blessed mindset!
SS says
My gram ate lard sandwiches too!!!
Jeanie says
I’ve heard Dan speak at conferences a few times. He is an interesting guy. Super down to earth and passionate about his health. Most Americans would need a massive overhaul to ever achieve a “Blue Zone”. Most of our convenience foods that we consume are full of chemicals. Even supposed “whole foods” that we think are healthy are over processed. I loved his theories though. All good reminders that what we choose on a daily basis has an overall effect on longevity.
Janette says
My dad will be 101 in a few days, and my mother is 97. They don’t live a healthy lifestyle at all. The rest of us do. We just scratch our heads and wonder how they do it. Plus, my dad was shot on three different occasions during WW11. Go figure…..
Mix and Match Mama says
How amazing is this that they have survived so much and lived so long?! I hope they’re living their happiest lives. I hope it’s been a beautiful 101 years (with ups and downs, of course), but beautiful nonetheless.
Grace says
This was a great post, and what an excellent way to start out Monday! I love this health series. Keep going!
Monica says
Well you certainly opened my eyes!!!
Allison says
I’ve read your blog for 11.5 years and I have ALWAYS thought it amazing how long your grandparents lived and how HEALTHY and ACTIVE they were. Love that we’re talking about this! Also as a fellow McKinney resident, are you able to share your new PCP? Understand if not!
Mix and Match Mama says
Allison, I’m not comfortable yet sharing with the group, but please feel free to email me!
Lisa N says
When you did a poll on IG of what we wanted to see more of in 2024, this is exactly what I wanted asked for! We can learn so much from these mature people and you happen to be blessed with it abundantly!. But we all have people in our lives whether it’s family, church family or friends that we can learn from if we just look at them closer.
Thank you for this addition of sharing and yes, more interviews or stories about them and this topic would be wonderful!❤️
Meg says
I have gotten so into this topic because of you! I’m reading out Live right now and I’m fascinated and can’t wait to start the Netflix series you recommended. Love all of this.
Kelly Marie Sites says
This kind of content (in addition to all the other stuff you share) is THE BEST. So well said. Here’s the thing- you say it perfectly, because it shouldn’t be an idol in our life per se, but should be something we strive for, and giving the rest to God. And I love that perspective. We should take great care of our temples (bodies) and desire to live our best lives and life out whatever time God allows functioning and doing all the things we love. I’m determined to do that. I read a book about how if we see growing older as a negative thing, IT WILL BE. We need to change how we see it. And strive NOW to develop good habits, good muscle mass, good eating, good sleeping, good social contacts, and hobbies, to go into those wonderful later years alive and thriving. I can’t wait to watch the Blue Zone movie. Thanks for sharing that, I hadn’t heard of it. Keep this stuff coming- I really learn a lot. And any podcasts you listen to on the topic would be great too.
Kristen says
I really enjoyed watching the Blue Zones. So many pieces of great info in it!
Becky G says
My OBGYN (of over 20 years) recently started a functional medicine practice on the side focused solely on women’s health because she saw such a need. 3 of my 4 grandparents passed early, 2 from preventable cancer and my sweet grandma, who was the poster child of health, wellness, and physical activity (rode her bike 20 miles a day, never had a drivers license, and ate healthier than anyone I’ve ever known) developed rheumatoid arthritis and passed from complications. That all said, I don’t think any of us truly realize how our diet, exercise, and intentional LIVING impact our overall health. Going to look up the series on Netflix.
Becky says
I’ve really loved watching that show as well and thinking about how to be intentional about how I’m living my life. Another book I have really enjoyed is, “How not to die”, and I’ve been watching limitless with Chris Hemsworth on National Geographic as well. All wrestling with the same things of longevity, health and understanding how our actions and foods effect our bodies. Loving the new content and excited to continue the journey with others here!
Molly B says
I am a primary care doctor and I appreciate your post and these books!
My one criticism of these books is that they don’t always acknowledge that there are so many people out there who don’t have the luxury of being this proactive about their health. Most of my patients (veterans!) are on disability or living paycheck to paycheck and that is their focus. Unfortunately they wind up having to just practice reactive health (just surviving and dealing with health problems once they show). It’s heartbreaking to see, and it’s a societal issue not a personal failing on the part of these people.
This is not a criticism of anyone who likes these books – just something to keep in mind!
Stephanie says
Molly, I was thinking the same exact thing! So much of this is possible because of of the luxury of being able to afford the more healthy food, walking in safe areas around their neighborhood, going to the doctor for prevention, etc. It’s really sad.
Molly B says
Exactly!! Thank you:)
Maureen says
What an important message! So many of us are so very fortunate to have the luxury to be proactive about our health as well as the means necessary to eat nutritiously. Sadly, it can be so costly to eat fresh, healthy whole food and to seek good medical care. Further, it seems quite common that doctors specializing in Functional Medicine often do not take insurance.
Meredith says
Shay, thank you so much for posting about this. I ordered Outlive a few weeks ago and am loving the book. I’ve always been a healthy/active/fit person, (working out consistently for 15+ years) but this has opened my eyes to so many things. I’m consumed! I just ordered this book as well!
Becky B says
We know so much more now than we ever have in terms of the importance of how strength, exercise, eating healthy, alcohol ,consumption and sleep affect our long term health. My brother having unexpected health issues last year has really spurred me to make many healthy changes and I also find Peter Attia’s podcast to be so helpful. Love to see how the people in the Blue Zones are living such vibrant lives!
Katherine Darlington says
I became a little obsessed with this topic after reading Heal by Kelly Noonan Gores and there is also a documentary. I have been searching for a more functional medicine MD because I don’t like meds and I think Western Medicine is quick to treat the symptoms with meds and surgery. If you haven’t seen Heal you should watch it as well and buy the book. I am excited to watch Blue Zones. I think cooking at home is a big deal. Just knowing what’s going in the food it a place to start. We rarely eat out but I’ve noticed if we eat fast food, i almost feel drugged beforee I’m even finished.
Jen says
REALLY GREAT STUFF. THANK YOU. KEEP IT COMING !
Alexandra says
Good morning Shay, how did you find your new doctor? did you just google “functional medicine doctors near me”? did you get recommendations from firends? I don’t like my current family doctor and I am looking to change, I love the perspective of the one you visited. Thanks
Mix and Match Mama says
I did both! I did a bit of “googling” and then started asking people. I found mine because I was talking to my hair stylist about it and another lady in the salon overheard and shared her doctor’s info with me. It’s crazy cool that the more I talk about this in my own life, the more I’m connected to women just like me on the same journey. This mom in the salon has twin teenagers and found herself on a similar journey a few years before. It has been nice getting to know her now and finding more friends in this sphere.
Dee Wilson says
I have the privilege to know your grandmother . She is amazing and a sweet lady.
We play canasta every Tuesday see each other in Sunday School.
I am proud to call her FRIEND.
Mix and Match Mama says
She is such a rockstar. She’s my hero 🙂 .
Jan Fisher says
This is so interesting! My mom will be 88 in 2 weeks and is amazing! She has buried 2 husbands ( my dad died of cancer at 42 when I was just 17). She walks everyday, does daily puzzles, plays in 3 bridge clubs, reads, is very active in church committees. She still babysits w/ her great grandkids (she has 5 aged 14-5 and we all live close) when needed! She’ll jump in and fold laundry or whatever needs done when visiting the grandkids houses! We are all so very lucky. I’m 64 and working hard to be active like her and stay strong. Thanks for sharing!
Kay says
I love this post so much, and am equally obsessed with the blue zone idea. (I watched the documentary and now want to read the book!). My husband and I are watching his step mom live a very difficult “last decade.” It has really hit us how important quality of life is, not just quantity. I have definitely made some changes including eating more vegan/vegetarian food, trying to focus on sleep, and getting fresh air/steps. I actually feel so much better when I do these things. Thinking about living the best version of my life is way more motivating than “trying to lose mid 40s weight.” Thank you for all the inspiration you provide!
Karen in Virginia says
What I found interesting about The Blue Zone documentary was the stress component. All of the zones didn’t seem to have the kinds of stress we have in the US. And the focus was not on working thousands of hours and buying so much stuff, but on simple happiness.
Mix and Match Mama says
YES! Simple living in so many of the zones was key!
Emily says
Hi Shay, I really appreciate these new posts. I’ve been dealing with a lot of health anxiety and have been trying to overcome it by knowing that I am caring for my body the best way I can and the rest is in the Lord’s hands. There is so much information out there that can be confusing and overwhelming, I am grateful to be able to come to your trusted site and find help right here. ❤️
Mix and Match Mama says
I am so thankful for everyone in this community. I think we’re all walking around with some “stuff”, and if we can at least share bits and pieces here, it makes us feel less alone. Sending you so much love!
Paula says
This is fascinating. I already had that show on save. So, I will step that up.
Your post seems extremely reflected in your father and his current adventurous trip to Antarctica.
Mix and Match Mama says
The man is about to turn 69 and lives life to the FULLEST every single day!
Kelly says
Thank you for caring enough to point us in some directions to help us educate ourselves and open our eyes how to better live our lives. I appreciate you taking us along on your journey as well. How special is this community to support and lift each other up!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I am just SO thankful for this community!
Darian says
Huge fan of Dan Buettner and the Blue Zones. And am also grateful that my 91 year old Dad is active and involved in life—at 80 he was in a wetsuit on the Great Barrier Reef. He and his wife are getting ready ready for a 35 day cruise in the South Pacific. And every September, he and my brothers go deep sea fishing in Cabo for a week (20 year old tradition).
Eating well, active, and has a community of friends and family is really key….and his favorite saying is from the Toby Keith song….”Don’t let the old man in”……his motto in life! We had koozies printed with that on his 90th bday party!
Paige says
It has been on my list to watch!!! I hope I find time today to start it. I also have Outlive on my nightstand, after I finish Forever Strong by Dr. Gabrielle Lyon. Highly recommend!!
Jess W says
This is on my list to watch on Netflix. Another I just got done watching is “You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment”. A study to show genetics may play a part in your health but how twins with the same genetics can also change their body fat, muscle mass, etc. Although everyone is different it does show how important it is to eat healthy while also working out and building muscle.
Kristen says
I thought this Netflix show was so interesting and amazing!!
Laura says
I lived in Okinawa for three years (one of the blue zones) and can say for certain that there were so many very old people there riding bikes and doing intense yard work – in the very hot, humid weather, and it was inspiring. I also have family members who lived into their 90s and were riding snowmobiles during those years. I think Newton’s Laws of Motion definitely apply to us. Stay in motion!
sandi says
Three of my four grandparents lived to be quite old and my great grandmother live to be 98. The way they ate and socialized was different from today. They grew their own food (for the most part) and had to work hard all day. Laundry, cleaning the house and cooking was not done with modern appliances. They walked more, sat on front porches and talked more to neighbors because they did not have distractions like phones and even televisions.
Diving into these resources and learning about longevity and living a better life will be interesting. I am a (somewhat) healthy, slim and active 56 year old woman. But I deal with pain that has no source daily and don’t want that to become something that makes me less active later. Due to infertility issues, I had my kids later in life (21, 19, 19, 15) and want to be around to enjoy grandkids. Traditional medicine needs to make room for more functional medical providers that help get to the root of the issues in a different way. There are not many in my area but maybe I need to be willing to drive a little farther for the sake of truly being healthy. Keep on writing these posts because I am really looking forward to learning more.
Karleigh Johnson says
Sandi, if you can find a functional medicine provider in your state, a lot of them will do telehealth. I was skeptical at first, but I’ve felt more compassion and closeness from my functional provider via telehealth than most in-person providers combined! It’s all about finding the right someone!
Melissa says
Thank you for sharing! I watched the show and really found it to be so fascinating. Both of my parents died really young from cancer so it makes me want to take every opportunity to do what is in my control because so many things are not in our control.
Laura JeanS. says
I LOVE this kind of content! My dad was still taking.. TAP LESSONS at 80 and going to what he called ‘summer camp’ in Utah every summer to escape the Texas heat. He sadly died of a brain tumor at 85, but I am convinced he would have lived forever if given the chance. He had me and my sister later in life, and he said we kept him young 🙂 I want to emulate this lifestyle and learn from those healthy elders before us. Please keep this kind of content going! Thanks, Shay!
Mix and Match Mama says
Tap dancing?! THAT IS AMAZING!!!!!
Charlene Cunningham says
My dad lived to 100! Other than bad eyesight and hearing- he was healthy. My mom was 30 years younger than him , and died of lymphoma at 70! I’m 66 now, wondering which genes I inherited… and feeling I should not be so sedentary.
Sandy says
I’m local. Are you willing to share who your new doctor is? Thank you for your health posts. I’m enjoying them a lot.
Mix and Match Mama says
Would you mind emailing me? I’m so happy you’re enjoying this content too!!
Sandy M. says
Sent! Thank you so much!
kristi says
Hi Shay! Ordering the book now. I watched The Blue Zones series and found it to be fascinating. My dad is 93 and thriving living on his own, still driving, does his own lawn care and gardening, cooking, housework, shopping and is very social. He and his sister, my aunt, are my role models. She is 87 and pretty much can out do us all… especially when traveling. She owns a business and still goes to work. They have told me for years it is attributed in part to great genes but also living a full life and enjoying it. They do not stress and worry but are very mindful, intentional and live each day to the very fullest. They both have a great sense of humor and both are very playful. I find it interesting too that young people are very drawn to them. I feel that keeps them young at heart as well! I think it would be enlightening to review the book with them once I finish it and see what insight they have to share with me.
Mix and Match Mama says
Wow!!!!! This is amazing!!! They ARE role models!!
Katie Hahn says
Love this post! I will be looking into the blue zones after reading this. My great grandma lived to be 110. She ended up passing away after falling and breaking her hip. I always wonder how long she would have lived if that wouldn’t have happened. Your dad’s recent trip to Antarctica and doing the “polar plunge” was so fascinating. This whole post inspires me to LIVE and live more simply!
Mix and Match Mama says
110?! That’s phenomenal!! In Outlive, Peter Attia shares studies that show when someone over 65 breaks a hit, there is a 30% chance of their mortality within the next 12 months. Both of my dad’s parents died following a fall. My grandma died about three months later but my grandpa died only about three days later. I often wonder the same thing. I really feel they both would still be here (based on every other factor) had neither of them fallen.
Shirley says
Love this! I just finished reading “Live Life in Crescendo” by Stephen Covey. It’s also excellent for thinking about how to keep LIVING your life during your entire life! Instead of thinking “I’m winding down” when we get older, we should say, “What else have I got to offer?” I really love this post, Shay! I’m going to get the Blue Zones book too!
Holly K says
I’m so intrigued about this but also have a lot of feelings about this. I love the idea of doing everything we can to live long and well but having lost my mom in a car accident when she was only 45 there’s a part of me that knows you can do all these things, have great long life genetics and still die young. 🙁 I also (mostly, kinda, i think?) believe that when it’s our time, it’s our time, I don’t know that God is going to change the timing of his plan because we’re doing all the right things to live longer. Admittedly, i struggle with this concept though. BUT even with all that why not implement things that will make whatever time you have on earth as great as they can be? My interest is peaked though so will be checking out the books and series mentioned. Thanks for sharing.
Mix and Match Mama says
First of all, Holly, I am so sorry for your loss. I wish I could give you a hug right now. Without a doubt, there are things that take us way too early and because we live in a fallen world, sin has made so many things harder/worse too. I really think both authors of both books do a great job articulating that accidents and genetics play an unavoidable role and certainly me, as a believer, feels God knew my last day when I breathed my first breath, but that these are strategies for just living “better” every day until that last day. I’m not over here trying to live longer, just live better each day the good Lord gives me.
Rebecca says
Wow, that gave me chills! Thank you so much for this encouragement. I was actually struggling with this, “should I try to live longer”, but the way you said to live each day better that the Lord gives us- just wow!! You are such an encouragement- thank you!!
Holly K says
Thank you for the kind response, it’s such a sensitive bruise on my heart to think/talk about old age since she didn’t get to live to see it. But I’m so glad to hear the authors address that, I really wondered about that. And I love the way you view it, that’s my goal too, to live each day I’m given to the best of my abilities. <3
Melissa says
That Netflix show really made me stop and think about it all too. I recently moved to a new town, so I don’t have much of a social circle right now, but it made me wish I could summon the neighbors and start walking together!
I love that you are sharing these things this year.
I bought Outlive last week and am slowly making my way through it.
There’s so many things that we are learning and/or sharing these days that would have been great to know 20 years ago! lol
Better late than never though.
Mix and Match Mama says
Better late than never is right! I think that’s one huge thing I’m learning…it’s really never too late.
SS says
Our local library started a group when the weather is nice.. maybe check there.
Laura Fredlund says
Love this post! I’ll watch the series and read the book too. I’m really focusing in on my health and wellness this year so I am glad your posting about this topic!
Kris R says
We have loved the Blue Zone lifestyle for a couple of years now. It’s fascinating and makes so much sense! Cutting out processed food, more plant based, moving as part of your lifestyle, and the social community aspect have had us hooked! So glad you love it Shay. Your grandparents are an inspiration!
Michelle says
I’ve always been genuinely curious about why you call your Grandmother, “Grandmother” instead of the more commonly used “Grandma”. Grandmother seems very formal. Is there a story behind it? Also curious on the back story of why your mom likes to be called Lovie. What would you like to be called one day??
Mix and Match Mama says
Oddly enough my Grandmother was only 44 years old when I was born (basically my age now!), but she loved the “formal” version of Grandma. This was 1981, so I think she didn’t want to sound “old” (because she clearly wasn’t!), but this was before “cute” grandma names were popular, so she went with “proper”. Rumor has it that I tried to call her “Grandmommy” and she did not like that, so she kept encouraging/correcting me until Grandmother stuck 🙂 .
Kelly Franksq says
I LOVCED the documentary and now it looks like I’ll be reading the book as well. The one thing that stuck with me after the documentary was the story about the man who was diagnosed with terminal cancer so he moved back to his home country, I believer Greece and got back to his “blue zone” living and I believe is still alive to this day, some 40 years later. Nuts!
Barb says
I saw the documentry or movie on a Tv station last year on the blue zones. It was excellent.
Monica Ware says
I have been reading your blog for years and I’m so excited for the new content you’ve started to share. I wanted to share that I am very passionate about this topic but specifically, for high school/college students as they begin their journey outside of their home in college and beyond. I sent you an email but I know comment section is also a good place to reach out, because I would love to share more about tips for students as they begin processing what life after high school looks likes for them (college, lifestyle, etc.) Please let me know if you’re interested as your kids are most likely? exploring college and beyond! I would love to be a resource for you because STRESS is key factor as mentioned here for students and their parents so mitigating this stressor is a HUGE part of my passion for my work! Thank you for all you do Shay!
Leslie S says
Started that Netflix series and this post was the prompt I needed to circle back. THANK YOU for this post today!!
My FIL passed from pancreatic cancer in August at 85 – he was very active his whole life and we always said he was the youngest old person we ever knew. YES. Fully believe the way he lived made it possible for him to enjoy his life right to the end. He literally lived large right to the last minute and the cancer took him so fast.
Without disclosing personal details could you explain the process of how you researched and found a functional medicine PCP? I’m being pulled that direction but gosh it’s hard to weigh all the options. I’m a little ahead of you in age but I want to live the best, healthy, joyful and active life I can for as long as the Lord allows. I am on this journey to figure out how to do it well.
Mix and Match Mama says
First and foremost, I am so sorry about the passing of your father-in-law, but what a gift that he lived a very healthful and joy-filled life. Amazing. I started talking to more people, and it opened my eyes to a lot of things. One, so many women are thinking/changing/doing what we’re doing/want to do and second, I got some great referrals this way too. My amazing Dr. Riegel (who was my OBGYN and now only focuses on HRT) has shifted his practice 180 degrees as well which also helped me find doctors that are more proactive than reactive.
Allison Hoover says
I have watched Blue Zones and really focused on whole foods and preventative care versus reactive care. I also have read a lot obout Whole 30 (the program, not sure if you’ve heard of it) and how sugar is a huge component of our foods and how awful it is for us in all of the processing of foods! It’s definitely something I want to focus on. Living well for all my days…thriving! Thank you for sharing!
Donna C says
Would you consider doing a blog post on how this info has changed your eating habits. I know you are generally a healthy eater but I have noticed you eat processed foods from Trader Joe’s for lunch and just wondered if this will change.
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes, many blog posts to come!
Lisa says
We watched it and have even watched a few episodes again. It’s fascinating! I My maternal grandmother lived to 100 and her brother was 99. I just remember them both always laughing, even in hard times, which they had many. I didn’t know there was a book. I’ll be ordering it now! Thanks for talking about this!
Pam says
I’m loving all the healthy living content. Thanks for all you share!
Renee says
Shay, have you read The Measure? My book club just read it. I liked it so much more than I thought I would.
I heard a long interview with Dan Buettner. It was very interesting. And inspiring.
Kacy M says
Love that you’re talking and exploring this subject. My living grandpa is 100, and my deceased other grandparents were 80-90s. They lived a long and full life. There’s many factors contributing to that and it’s so important we realize life is short and we need to live it the best way we can.
Casey says
I remember years ago you said you didn’t feel the need to eat organic food because you trusted the FDA. Wondering if your thoughts on that have changed?
Mix and Match Mama says
My thoughts on a lot of things have changed. Age does that to you 🙂 .
Miranda says
Hi Shay, love that you’re on a new health journey. I have been for a few years now. How will you apply this when you travel and eat out so much? It’s so hard to find healthy food in restaurants. Will you be cutting down on your alcohol consumption now as well? Given you eat out and travel a lot I’m curious how you will adjust your eating habits. Will you be going out to restaurants less and are your kids and husband going to be eating healthier? Will you publish healthier recipes on your food blog now? Your cookbooks contain mostly processed and very unhealthy ingredients, as do your food posts. Will you be removing your breast implants as there’s article upon article out how dangerous they are for your health. Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
To me, changing everything about ones life seems overwhelming and unrealistic. I am all about knowing better and trying to do better while also giving myself lots and lots of grace. I’m going for quality of life more than quantity in all areas (emotional, physical, spiritual, professional, mental). I have made changes and surely will continue to, and my hope is to take you guys on the journey with me one page at a time.
Carissa says
I love your response to this. I’ve been watching the documentaries/reading those books as well and the overwhelm is real. It seems the more I read the more I find that I enjoy that “isn’t healthy” – burning candles, painting my nails, having fires often in my fireplace. eating this or that etc. and then I just don’t take any action to change at all because it’s too much. Coming along for the journey with you one page at a time is perfect. Thank you Shay. One of my favorite posts ever and so looking forward to the content to come!
Amanda says
Just wondered if you have subscribed/become a member of Peter Attia’s Drive podcast and if so what you think of it? I think the topics are very interesting but have just listened to the free sneak peeks. Thanks for the book recommendation- I’ve really enjoyed it!
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes, I subscribed!!!! His daily newsletters are so informative but having access to his AMA podcasts is my favorite part of the subscription.
Christine says
One of my favorite Peloton instructors has said “your biography becomes your biology” and I think about that a lot! It’s great advice to think long term for your health!
Mix and Match Mama says
Wow! I love that so much!!! I’m writing that down.
Sharon High says
I am trying the LMNT based on your recomnendation, but also wanted to look into the other supplement you take – I can’t’ remember the name of it to search for it on your blog – it’s a green drink, I think.
Mix and Match Mama says
AG1! I love AG1! Do you receive my daily newsletter? I had a promo for it in there just last Thursday. If not, email me, and I’ll send it your way!
Jennifer says
Thank you for sharing! I’m super intrigued and share your passion for staying active and having QUALITY in my years! I’d love to hear more about your experience with a functional medicine doctor. I don’t know a lot about this practice, but think it could be right up my alley!