Sprightly octogenarian Berta Dalia appears from her modest, dimly lit kitchen, faded apron tied round her waist, yellow fluffy slippers providing a pop of colour to her hard-working feet. As she emerges, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods wafts through the air, making it impossible not to feel a sense of warmth and hospitality. Berta's home, nestled in the heart of Costa Rica's Blue Zone, is a haven of tranquility, where the passing of time seems to slow down, and the secrets to a long and healthy life are waiting to be uncovered.
As I sit down with Berta in her cozy living room, surrounded by family photos and handmade crafts, I am struck by her radiant energy and zest for life. Despite being in her eighties, Berta exudes a youthful vitality, which is a common trait among the residents of the Blue Zone. This region, located in the Nicoya Peninsula, has been identified as one of the world's five Blue Zones, areas where people live longer and healthier than anywhere else on the planet.
Berta's daily routine is a testament to the simple, yet effective, approach to life that is characteristic of the Blue Zone. She rises with the sun, spends time meditating and practicing yoga, and then tends to her garden, where she grows her own fruits and vegetables. Her diet is rich in whole, plant-based foods, and she drinks plenty of water from a nearby spring. As we chat, Berta shares with me her favourite recipes, passed down through generations of her family, which are designed to nourish both body and soul.
One of the most striking aspects of life in the Blue Zone is the strong sense of community and social connection. Berta's home is often filled with family and friends, who gather to share meals, stories, and laughter. This emphasis on social bonding is a key factor in the longevity and well-being of the Blue Zone residents, who prioritize relationships and a sense of belonging above material possessions and wealth.
As I explore the Blue Zone, I am struck by the natural beauty of the surroundings. The region is characterized by lush forests, pristine beaches, and a diverse array of wildlife. The air is clean, the water is pure, and the pace of life is slow and deliberate. It is the perfect environment in which to cultivate a sense of peace and contentment, and to focus on the things that truly matter in life.
So, what is the secret to living past 100 in Costa Rica's Blue Zone? According to Berta, it is quite simple: eat well, move your body, and cultivate a sense of purpose and belonging. It is a formula that has been perfected over generations, and one that is rooted in a deep connection to nature, community, and self. As I prepare to leave Berta's home, I am filled with a sense of inspiration and gratitude, and I know that the lessons I have learned in the Blue Zone will stay with me for the rest of my life.