If you’re building a home and new life in Middleton, Idaho, you’re probably dreaming about more than just floor plans and finishes. You’re likely thinking about the kind of life you want to create for yourself and your family. Many homeowners are looking for ways to design lives that promote health, happiness, and longevity. That’s where the Blue Zone Lifestyle comes in.
Blue Zones are regions around the world where people consistently live longer, healthier lives. These communities share key habits, such as moving naturally, prioritizing family, eating mindfully, and staying socially engaged. While Middleton, Idaho, isn’t officially a Blue Zone, it has all the right ingredients to support a Blue Zone Lifestyle.
Here are six ways to live a Blue Zone Lifestyle right here in Middleton.
1. Incorporate More Physical Activity Into Your Everyday Life
You don’t need a home gym or a strict workout routine to live like those in the Blue Zones. What matters most is natural, consistent movement throughout the day. If you are moving to Middleton, there are a few things you can incorporate into your new home design to make this everyday movement easier.
- Choose a neighborhood close to parks, hiking trails, and open green spaces.
- Add a garden to your backyard to encourage light physical activity and fresh air.
- Enjoy the city’s close access to local swimming pools, pickleball courts, and ski resorts.
You should also consider taking an evening stroll with the family, biking to the local coffee shop, or tending to a raised garden bed. By incorporating these Blue Zone lifestyle habits into your daily routine, it becomes much easier to maintain them.
2. Create More Stress-Relieving Habits
Even in a peaceful town like Middleton, stress can find its way into your everyday life. Blue Zone residents have daily rituals that help them slow down, unwind, and reset. You can also bring those same habits into your new home, making your everyday life much more enjoyable. Some great stress-relieving activities you can incorporate include:
- Include a peaceful nook for meditation, reading, or journaling.
- Enjoy Idaho’s natural beauty with a covered patio or sunroom where you can sit quietly.
- Establish a calming bedtime routine to support better sleep.
You should also consider spending more time in nature, practicing deep breathing, or taking a midday pause with a cup of tea. These Blue Zone lifestyle habits can go a long way toward promoting mental clarity and emotional balance.
3. Schedule Regular Family Mealtimes
In Blue Zones, mealtimes are about more than just food; they’re about connections with your loved ones. Families regularly gather to eat, talk, and spend meaningful time together. If you want to incorporate this Blue Zone lifestyle habit into your routine, your new home in Middle can make this easy and enjoyable.
- Design an open-concept kitchen and dining area to bring everyone together.
- Prioritize having sit-down meals at least a few nights a week.
- Cook meals using whole, plant-based ingredients from one of Middleton’s local farms.
Middleton’s local farmers’ markets make it simple to find fresh, seasonal produce for your family meals. Sharing a table daily fosters strong family bonds and encourages more mindful eating habits, both key pieces of the Blue Zone Lifestyle.
4. Get Involved in Your Community
Social engagement and a sense of belonging are pillars of the Blue Zone lifestyle. When you move to a new community in Middleton, you’re moving to a community that offers a close-knit, friendly environment where it’s easy to get involved. If you want to increase your community involvement, consider the following:
- Join a local pickleball team, church group, or book club.
- Attend town events, festivals, or farmers’ markets.
- Volunteer your time or skills to support local causes.
Even if you’re simply enjoying an evening out on your front porch, you have the opportunity to meet new neighbors and start building connections in your community. Whether you’ve lived in Middleton your entire life or are new to the city, investing in your social network leads to a more joyful and connected life.
5. Enjoy Your Morning Cup of Coffee
When you think about incorporating more Blue Zone lifestyle habits into your routine, you probably don’t think about coffee. However, many people in Blue Zones enjoy a daily cup of coffee or tea as a part of their wellness routine. The key is to savor it, not rush it, and let it become a small ritual in your day.
- Set up a coffee station in your kitchen or breakfast nook.
- Sip your drink slowly and enjoy the peaceful morning view.
- Invite a friend or neighbor over to chat over a cup of coffee.
Coffee is more than caffeine; it’s a chance to pause, connect, and start your day on a positive note. In Middleton’s slower-paced environment, you can truly take the time to enjoy this daily habit, especially if you incorporate this habit with your loved ones.
6. Nurture Your Religious or Spiritual Connections
Faith and spiritual well-being are core elements in all Blue Zone communities, and something you should consider incorporating into your everyday, weekly, and monthly routine. Whether you attend a local church, practice daily gratitude, or take time to reflect, nurturing your inner life supports overall health and happiness.
- Create a calming space in your home for prayer, meditation, or reflection.
- Join a faith community that aligns with your beliefs.
- Make time each week for spiritual practice, either solo or with others.
In Middleton, many churches and faith-based organizations provide opportunities for connection, support, and shared values. When you integrate these practices into your lifestyle, you’re living with greater intention and purpose.
Design a Home That Supports Your Blue Zone Lifestyle
At the heart of the Blue Zone Lifestyle is the idea that your environment shapes your habits. When you design a home that supports movement, connection, calm, and purpose, you naturally begin to live in a way that promotes longevity and joy. If you’re looking for a home builder to help you support your Blue Zone lifestyle, turn to our team at Gardner Homes. We know that building a healthier, happier lifestyle starts at home, and we’re confident that our community is the perfect place to boost your everyday Blue Zone habits.
If you would like to learn more about our communities, don’t hesitate to contact us today.