The Japanese island of Okinawa is another zone in which people live long and healthy lives. "Okinawans live a good seven years longer than Americans," Dr. Oz says. "And they suffer about 80 percent fewer heart attacks and cancer than people in the U.S."
The Okinawans attribute their health and longevity to a couple of words, ikigai and moai. Ikigai means "that which makes one's life worth living." Moai means that one has a social support network. "Having lifelong friends is key to shedding stress," Dr. Oz says. Daily exercise and gardening are a few ways in which 84-year-old Fumiyasa Yomikawa gets his ikigai.
Published 11/18/2008
As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.
