Purpose and Community
Those lucky enough to live in the Blue Zones also have a further common trait - they have great senses of community - older people are not just put into homes but are kept active as respected members of their family and community - so it's great to get involved in clubs/societies, etc and again - we stop moving and we get old - we don't get old and stop moving - be careful of the creep!
Ikigai
A Japanese term describing the feeling of accomplishment and fulfilment that follows when people pursue their passions. These activities are not forced but are perceived as spontaneous and undertaken willingly and so are personal and rewarding.
It's a concept which has long been held in Japanese culture said to have evolved from the basic health and wellness principles of traditional Japanese medicine. A tradition which holds that physical wellbeing is affected by mental & emotional health and a sense of 'purpose' in life.
Waking up to joy!
It also relates to 'flow' which can be said is present when you're consistently doing something you love and that you're good at with the possible added benefit of bringing value to others lives - you're flow you could then say is in tune with your ikigai and the activities which give your life meaning.
Driven by Excellence
Teachers are selected among experts of their domains. They are not just professors, they are professionals in their field of expertise.
Journalists, directors, developers, etc. working effectively in their fields of excellence.
