At Empowered Ageing, we’re always exploring real-world models of healthy ageing — and few are more inspiring than the Blue Zones.
These are places around the world where people live the longest, healthiest lives, often reaching 90 and even 100 years old with vitality, purpose, and joy.
So what makes these regions so unique?
The 5 Original Blue Zones
Blue Zones were first identified by researcher and explorer Dan Buettner. His team studied communities with the highest rates of healthy longevity and discovered five key locations:
Okinawa, Japan
- Sardinia, Italy
- Nicoya, Costa Rica
- Ikaria, Greece
- Loma Linda, California (USA)
- These regions have remarkably low rates of chronic disease and disability, and people there remain active, social, and mentally sharp well into their later years.
What Did They Discover? The Power 9™ Principles
After studying these vibrant communities, Buettner identified nine common lifestyle habits — called the Power 9™ — that support healthy ageing, movement for longevity, and overall wellness for older adults.
Here’s how we bring them to life in our Empowered Ageing community:
1. Move Naturally
In Blue Zones, people move all day as part of daily life — walking, gardening, carrying things.
At Empowered Ageing, our programs focus on natural, functional movement. We offer dance, Animal Flow, ground-based mobility, and strength training over 60 — all designed to support functional fitness for life.
2. Purpose
Knowing your “why” adds years to your life.
We help our clients reconnect with purpose through health coaching, workshops, spiritual book clubs, and community-based wellness sessions.
3. Downshift
Stress causes inflammation and illness.
We teach stress-management through breathwork, mindful movement, and calming practices that support holistic self-care for older adults.
4. 80% Rule
People in Blue Zones stop eating when they feel 80% full.
We coach mindful eating strategies that support digestive health, weight balance, and anti-inflammatory nutrition.
5. Plant Slant
A mostly plant-based diet is the norm in Blue Zones.
We help you enjoy more plant-forward meals without restriction. You’ll still love your food — and feel great after eating.
6. Wine at 5
In moderation, wine with friends is common in Blue Zones.
For those who enjoy it, we promote mindful drinking — one glass of organic wine with community and connection.
7. Belong
Faith, community, and social connection are essential.
We offer a wellness tribe for like-minded, young-at-heart adults — with walking groups, community cooking, and regular social events.
8. Loved Ones First
In Blue Zones, people put family first.
We encourage you to deepen those relationships, support others, and lean on your tribe when life gets hard.
9. Right Tribe
Surround yourself with people who support your health.
Our Empowered Ageing community is filled with people who value movement, growth, and living well. We walk, move, and grow together.
How We Bring Blue Zone Living to Life
At Empowered Ageing, we use Blue Zones principles to support your long-term health and happiness. Our current wellness offerings include:
Walking groups for connection and cardiovascular health
- A spiritual book club to explore purpose and mindset
- Communal cooking inspired by Blue Zones recipes
- Small group classes focused on mobility, balance, and strength
- Private coaching, massage, and holistic support
- Whether you attend a workshop, join a class, or book a one-on-one session, you’re welcome to be part of this vibrant, supportive community.
Live Longer, Move Better, Feel Connected
You don’t have to move to Costa Rica or Greece to live like you're in a Blue Zone.
You can start right here, right now — by joining a health-conscious community that values strong bodies, joyful movement, and wellness for midlife and beyond.
Because at Empowered Ageing, we believe that 70 is the new 50 — and your best years are still to come.
Want to Join the Movement?
Explore our upcoming events, classes, and coaching sessions for adults 50+ in the Algarve.
Visit: www.empoweredageing.com
Or follow us on social media for daily inspiration.