‘Exploring Bermuda’s Blue Zone Potential’
CG and Zest Wellness hosted an event focusing on exploring how “Bermuda can become the first Blue Zone island in the Atlantic,” with Blue Zones described as ‘regions where people live exceptionally long and healthy lives.’
A spokesperson said, “CG and its wellness programme, Zest Wellness, successfully hosted ‘A Blue Era: Exploring Bermuda’s Blue Zone Potential, a landmark event that brought together key thought leaders, health experts, and community advocates to explore how Bermuda can become the first Blue Zone island in the Atlantic.
“The event, which featured a distinguished panel of experts, sparked engaging discussions on how fostering healthier lifestyles, sustainable environments, and supportive policies can transform Bermuda into a hub of longevity and well-being.
“Panellists included David Kendell, Director of Health within the Government of Bermuda; Patrina O’Connor-Paynter, Managing Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters; Preston James, Nutrition & Life Coach; Chris Faria, Founder and Managing Director of Agra Living Institute; and Jennifer Wild, EVP and Chief Administrative Officer of Clarien.
Nick Buettner, Preston James, Patrina O’Connor-Paynter, David Kendell, Jennifer Wild and Chris Faria.
“Moderating the discussion was Nick Buettner, Vice President of Product at Blue Zones. Over the last 25 years, Nick has led 17 expeditions across six continents, including explorations of Blue Zones regions—places where people live significantly longer, healthier lives.
“As a keynote speaker and expert in longevity research, Nick shared insights from his experiences working with National Geographic and his brother, Dan Buettner, to uncover the secrets behind these extraordinary communities. His work has helped bring Blue Zones principles to over 50 communities across the United States, positively impacting the health of millions.
“Blue Zones, a concept pioneered by National Geographic explorer and journalist Dan Buettner, are regions where people live exceptionally long and healthy lives. These communities thrive due to a combination of lifestyle factors, including strong social connections, plant-based diets, regular physical activity, and policies that support well-being.
“Global interest in Blue Zones surged following the release of the 2023 Netflix docuseries Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones, which brought these longevity lessons to a wider audience and showcased how communities around the world are applying these principles to live better, longer lives.”
Naz Farrow, CEO of CG, underscored the significance of this initiative, stating, “At CG, we believe that by partnering with Blue Zones, we can help lay the foundation to aid in transforming Bermuda into a place where health and longevity are the norm, not the exception. A Blue Zone designation would not only enhance individual well-being but also contribute to economic vitality and reduce healthcare costs, which aligns with our commitment to putting people first.”
Jacqueline Perreault, CG’s Director of Wellness, highlighted the broader vision behind the event, “This discussion is just the beginning. By bringing together experts from diverse fields, we are igniting a thought-starter that prioritises well-being at every level—individual, community, and policy. Through strategic partnerships with local government, businesses, and our clients, we can make meaningful strides toward a healthier Bermuda.”
Beth Frazier, Ron Spencer III, Aleksandra Smith, Jacqueline Perrault, Nick Buettner, Preston James, Patrina O’Connor-Paynter, David Kendell, Jennifer Wild, Annilee Martin, Chris Faria and Christina Sgobba.
The spokesperson said, “The event explored the three key pillars of Blue Zone transformations: People, Places, and Policy— examining how Bermuda can implement changes that foster long-term health and wellness. Discussions covered strategies for reducing disease incidence, improving productivity and performance, and enhancing regional economic sustainability.
“Building on the momentum of the event, CG is proud to announce a series of initiatives through the Zest Wellness programme designed to integrate Blue Zone principles into everyday life, including a Blue Zone Advocate course in partnership with the University of Arizona.
“CG will also work with member organisations to integrate Blue Zone strategies into workplace wellness programmes. A comprehensive community assessment, conducted in collaboration with the Blue Zones team, will guide the development of tailored solutions, while policy advocacy efforts will focus on making healthier choices easier and more accessible across Bermuda.
“CG’s commitment to this initiative extends beyond this event, as the company aims to integrate the Blue Zone principles into its ESG and wellness programmes. The long-term vision is to inspire sustainable health improvements that benefit individuals, businesses, and the broader community.
“For more information about CG’s commitment to wellness, visit cgcoralisle.com.”
I guess it’s good to start now because it’s going to take a very long time for Bermuda to qualify as a Blue Zone.
Not at all. Most people are feeling the blues just from from the cost of living. Bermuda is already blue.
One of the key pillars of a Blue Zone is a healthy local diet shared by many. We barely grow anything, and if we do, most are priced out of accessibility.
We are a nation that that lives on junk, heavily sugared and salted American junk, which is why we have such obesity issues. We are light years away from being a blue zone.
“One of the key pillars of a Blue Zone is a healthy local diet shared by many”
What? It’s not just about the colour of my hair?