How Keeping Good Company Keeps Us Healthy

One of the many things that I will cherish about my recent trip to Costa Rica is the time that I spent with like-hearted people, my dear kula. Some folks I've known for a number of years and others I met for the first time. And the thing that I noticed immediately was the ease I felt spending time with people that were dedicated to a healthy lifestyle, dedicated to serving their communities and dedicated to moving the world forward in the spirit of kindness and compassion.

I also recently listened to a podcast, The Doctor's Farmacy hosted by Mark Hyman M.D. where he discusses the Blue Zones way of life and longevity with Blue Zones pioneer Dan Buettner. Here, I will share a few things that I noticed on the trip as well as things from the podcast.

1. Those with whom you spend the most time can greatly influence your health. According to Buettner & Hyman, healthy individuals tend to have healthy friend circles. I noticed this on my trip, although there was junk food and alcohol available, few indulged and no one over-indulged. In fact, we all shared healthy tips and recipes.

2. Moving the body without formally exercising is vital to longevity. This can include choosing the parking space farthest from the door, pushing your mower instead of riding, shoveling your own snow. While on my trip, I had to climb 82 stairs to get up to my room and this occurred several times throughout the day. Because I was in such beautiful surroundings and my friends pictured above were walking with me and engaging me in conversation, I barely even noticed!

3. Community is built through common interests. We were in Costa Rica to practice yoga and play in the ocean. Some folks hiked, some folks surfed, some swam, some jogged and cycled but everyone did something active while being cheered on and encouraged by the kula. You want to be with people that join you in being active. Get a walking buddy. Join a team (be sure they're vaxxed and boosted) commit with a friend to practice yoga online with me. Have a community in person or online that holds you accountable to a healthy way of life.

We are practicing Monday at 12:30 PM and Thursday at 9:00 AM. Register here and bring a friend: https://www.toembodyyoga.com/offerings

Can't make a live class? Plenty of replays available at the store:

https://www.toembodyyoga.com/online_store

See ya soon!

Julie