The City of Virginia Beach is constantly exploring ways to make our community a healthier place to live. As a part of these efforts, in collaboration with Tide Swimming, we are exploring the possibility of transforming Virginia Beach into a Blue Zones Community.
Researchers have identified five areas around the globe, dubbed “Blue Zones®,” that are home to the most centenarians — people who live to be 100 years old or more. Nine common characteristics, called the Power 9, represent shared practices in these Blue Zones. Their work has evolved into an initiative to help communities around the globe transform in ways that will help people live longer, healthier lives by optimizing their lifestyle and environment.
The Blue Zones project is being considered in other communities around the world. The research on which it was founded has been featured in National Geographic, Time Magazine and a New York Times Best-Seller, “The Blue Zones Project.”
Given the potential for positive outcomes, the City is investigating the Blue Zone designation as a possibility to pursue. A public meeting on June 6 will assess community interest and give attendees an opportunity to acquire in-depth information about what it takes to become a Blue Zones city.