Blue Zones Project has partnered with 104 Agency, which is run by COMM 430, an Advertising and Public Relations course here at UND, to host a wellness inspired event on April 9 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Memorial Union Large Ballroom. This event is called Live by 9 with Blue Zones Project, which focuses on the nine lifestyle habits of the world’s healthiest, long-lived people.
This Power 9, as Blue Zones calls it, includes moving naturally, purpose, down shift, 80% rule, plant slant, friends at 5, right tribe, loved ones first, and belonging. According to Blue Zones, they have recognized five places that meet the criteria they’ve set for the world’s healthiest, long-lived people.
The Barbagia region of Sardinia is a mountainous highland that has the world’s highest concentration of males over the age of 100 years old. Ikaria, Greece has the world’s lowest rates of middle age mortality and dementia. The Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica has the world’s lowest rates of middle age mortality and second highest concentration of males over the age of 100 years old. Loma Linda, California has the highest concentration of people that live 10 years longer than their North American counterparts. Finally, Okinawa, Japan has the longest-lived population in the world of females over 70 years old.
The Live by 9 with Blue Zones Project event will consist of different tables hosted by businesses and organizations the 104 Agency has collaborated with. These tables include Crisp & Green, Archives Coffee House, the UND Wellness Center, Zen River Yoga, GRO.UND, Grand Forks Public Library, and more. The event will feature door prizes, an array of activities and crafts, free samples, and giveaways. Special shoutouts include Blue Zones Project Grand Forks, 322 Hospitality Group, Probitas Promotions, Zen River Yoga, and Lotus Yoga for helping sponsor the event as well.
This event will be a great opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to hear about ways to promote health and wellness while also learning more about the businesses and organizations in Grand Forks that connect with the mission and values of Blue Zones.
Kelsie Hildebrand is the Dakota Student Editor-in-Chief. She can be reached at [email protected].
