Washington’s Blue Zoned Grocers Hope to Make Life Better for All

This week The Market by Andy's, a Walla Walla staple since 1968, became a Blue Zones Project-approved grocer.

Not sure what a Blue Zone is? Well, you've heard of food deserts, right? Those are communities with few, if any, healthy food options. A Blue Zone is the opposite of that.

What Does the Name Blue Zone Mean?

There are places in the world where people live much longer, healthier lives. They were dubbed "blue zones" by demographer and author Dan Buettner, who went about finding other Blue Zones. He believes that all of these geographic areas share 9 lifestyle and environmental traits.

What are the 9 Traits of a Blue Zone?

1. People move a lot, naturally, as part of their lifestyle.
2. They know their purpose, their reason for getting out of bed in the morning.
3. Stress is managed daily with meditation, naps, and even happy hour.
4. They eat until they are no longer hungry, but NOT until they are full.
5. They eat a lot of beans, and very little meat.
6. Wine is enjoyed daily, in moderation (1 to 2 glasses, with friends or family).
7. Belonging to a community, such as church.
8. Family is a priority, including keeping elderly parents or grandparents close.
9. You are who you associate with; if everyone around you lives healthy, odds are you will, too.

What is a Blue Zone Approved Community or Business?

Blue Zone or Blue Zone-approved businesses and communities make a commitment to make healthy choices easy for consumers to make.

Citizens, schools, employers, restaurants, grocery stores, and community leaders collaborate on policies and programs that improve health and well-being. -BlueZones.com

 

How Do I Find A Blue Zone Business Near Me?

You'll find a map of Washington State Blue Zones here.

And a Google search for Blue Zoned Grocers in Washington State, here, can show you where to shop for a healthier, longer life.