Surrounded by the bright blue sea and entrenched in the slow pace of daily life, it’s hard not to feel good when you’re in the Mediterranean. My first month in Greece, I assimilated quickly into summer days spent swimming in the sea and drinking local wine by the carafe. Naturally, it did wonders for my mind and soul. But after only a week, I noticed the country was having a positive effect on my physical health as well.

While many would argue that they feel pretty dang good when they’re lounging on a Greek island or roaming the Amalfi Coast, how much of that is simply “vacation bliss”? Is there any real truth behind different regions actually making you a healthier person? 

The answer is yes: two of the five most commonly recognized Blue Zones (small regions of Earth where life expectancy is exceptionally long) are located just next door to each other. Well, across the sea. The Mediterranean is home to both Icaria, Greece and Sardinia, Italy where a disproportionate number of locals live well into their 90s and many past 100. And, naturally, researchers have tried to understand why.

As it turns out, there are many things about the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle that they suspect have a positive effect on the minds and bodies of those who live there. 

Sunshine 

The Mediterranean is an incredibly sunny place. Sardinia, for example, basks in 300 days of sunshine per year. 

While the sun can get a bad rap, it actually offers a surprising amount of positive health benefits. Beyond boosting vitamin D, sunlight enhances sleep quality, strengthens the immune system, lowers blood pressure and can help relieve pain. Living in the sunny Mediterranean also encourages a more active, outdoor lifestyle. 

Diet 

The Mediterranean diet has been studied extensively and the consensus on its health benefits is resoundingly positive, largely thanks to its focus on healthy fats, omega-3s and a colorful array of fresh vegetables. With staples like fish, olive oil, nuts, legumes and whole grains, it’s not only nutrient-dense but also naturally low in red meat and refined sugars, reducing the risks of heart disease and diabetes. Plus, a nightly glass of antioxidant-rich red wine can help support heart health.

Fresh, seasonal,and locally sourced ingredients are abundant. It’s harder and frequently more expensive to find processed foods in many places. Fermented dairy, like yogurts and cheeses, are popular and great for gut health. The Mediterranean diet is also heavy on herbs and spices that boost flavor without an overreliance on salt. 

Lifestyle 

Life in the Mediterranean is undeniably more laid-back compared to much of Europe and North America. With shorter business hours and a more relaxed attitude toward work, locals prioritize balance and well-being. Lengthy afternoon siestas are common, a practice linked to the longevity observed in Blue Zones, suggesting that this leisurely approach to life contributes to healthier, longer lives.

Exercise as a part of life

In the Mediterranean, exercise is all about embracing a more active lifestyle without the need for structured workouts. Many towns are walkable, making it easy to walk through charming streets and visit local shops or go for a stroll along the esplanade. Swimming in the sea, paddleboarding and even volleyball are commonplace in Mediterranean beach towns, while spectacularly scenic hikes and rock climbing await those venturing into the mountains.