3rd Edition Global Longevity Federation

Abstract

The Centenarian Expedition, organized by Silvia Triboni to explore regions where people are longlived, active, and happy, such as the renowned Blue Zones, has allowed her, a journalist, author, and consultant, to disseminate information that encourages adopting the healthy practices of their inhabitants to age gracefully and joyfully. 

Exploring Blue Zones:
Insights gathered during visits to Sardinia, Italy in 2021, and Ikaria, Greece in 2022, have contributed significantly to understanding the lifestyle factors conducive to longevity. Now, in February 2024, the focus shifts to unraveling the secrets of longevity in Okinawa, Japan, another remarkable Blue Zone.
SARDINIA - What is the longevity recipe of Sardinia's centenarians? 

During the interview with Professor Gianni Pes he discusses the factors contributing to the exceptional longevity of Sardinia's centenarians. He emphasizes that while we can't replicate their lifestyle, we can adopt certain aspects, such as increased physical activity and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables while reducing fats and sugars. Building strong social connections is also highlighted. Regarding diet, he suggests reducing meat consumption and opting for animal proteins like milk, cheese, or eggs instead. This approach aims not just for longevity, but aging without diseases. 

IKARIA Secrets – the Blue Zone where life is light and long
Ikarians, like the super seniors of Sardinia, live in the mountainous terrain of the island, engaging in daily physical activity through chores, animal care, and walks. Their Mediterranean-style diet consists of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, olive oil, and garlic, with a preference for fish over meat. They enjoy coffee, wine, honey, and herbal teas, often relaxing in cafes. Taking a nap at noon is a common practice, believed to benefit heart health. Fasting, observed by most Greeks, is integral to the Greek Orthodox faith and is associated with potential anti-aging benefits. Family and social connections are highly valued, contributing to overall well-being. Ikarians favor goat's milk over cow's milk, reflecting their lifestyle focused on simplicity and unhurried living.

OKINAWA TODAY
The expedition in Okinawa unveils the warm hospitality of its inhabitants who generously shared their island's beauty and wisdom. Notably, discussions with Dr. Makoto Suzuki, a pioneering cardiologist and geriatrician, shed light on longevity research at the Okinawa Research Center for Longevity Science (ORCLS).

Ikigai and Moai Across Lifespan:
Dr. Suzuki emphasizes the dynamic nature of 'ikigai' throughout life, suggesting that it evolves continuously, providing purpose irrespective of age. This concept of finding purpose and cultivating it over time is integral to Okinawan longevity.
The concept of 'Moai', where groups support each other socially and financially, emerges as a significant contributor to the Okinawan sense of community and shared purpose, enhancing overall well-being and longevity.

The deep-rooted tradition of respecting elders in the Blue Zones culture highlights the importance of fostering reverence for the elderly worldwide, both within and outside the workplace.
Impact of Westernization and Reasons for Decline in Longevity in Okinawa:

The detrimental effects of Western influences, including fast food and a loss of traditional values like ikigai, are discussed in light of Okinawa's declining longevity. Dr. Suzuki stresses the need to preserve traditional practices for resilience and prosperity.
The impact of Westernization, particularly since the end of World War II, has been a growing concern for Okinawa's longevity. The proliferation of fast food and sedentary lifestyles poses significant challenges to health and well-being, underscoring the importance of retaining cultural values like ikigai.

Biography

Silvia Triboni is an Italian-Brazilian lawyer with an MBA in Public Management from the Getúlio Vargas Foundation. She has a degree in Sustainability and Human Responsibility from the University of Lisbon and in Coaching and Mentoring from the Getúlio Vargas Foundation. 

Journalist, lecturer and consultant focusing on active longevity and generational harmony in companies. She is a columnist and international correspondent for companies linked to the interests of people 50+ in Brazil and Portugal.

An activist against ageism, she is director of the StopIdadism Association in Portugal.

A social entrepreneur, through her the Brazilian course Repórter 60+ was internationalised in Portugal, training reporters aged 60 and over in various regions of the country. 

She founded the Across the Seven Seas platform, whose aim is to disseminate information and stimuli that enable the inclusion and development of the 50+ audience. 

In her Centenarian project, she has explored the Blue Zones, regions where the inhabitants are exceptionally healthy and long-lived, in order to publicise them to her readers. 

A writer, she has launched the book Employability 50+ in Portugal and Brazil, with useful information and strategies for a successful career in maturity. 

She is responsible for the Longevity column in Viva Saúde magazine, available throughout Brazil.