Following a groundbreaking international health summit, a team of experts share simple, proven ways to truly thrive.
In an era when life expectancy in many countries has stalled or even declined, according to Harvard Health Publishing, researchers and policy leaders are once again turning to the world’s longest-lived communities for answers.
That urgency shaped the tone of “The First World Longevity Summit,” which took place in summer 2025 in Kyotango, Japan. As experts gathered to examine what truly drives long, fulfilling lives, their discussions revealed a striking convergence between emerging scientific evidence and the time-tested habits practiced in the world’s so-called “longevity hotspots.”
At the summit’s closing remarks, its leaders—representing fields including cardiovascular health, nutrition science, and gene therapy—shared the four key pillars of a long life, according to a November 2025 article published in the journal NPJ Aging. All the pillars are, notably, featured in the Blue Zones Power 9: a list of evidence-based common denominators observed in locations around the world with a disproportionate number of centenarians.
Founded 25 years ago by author, National Geographic fellow, and longevity expert Dan Buettner, the Blue Zones team of medical researchers, anthropologists, epidemiologists, and other scientists identified the practices and values that appear to enhance longevity around the globe. They include reducing stress, eating smaller portion sizes, drinking moderately, putting family first, and attending faith-based services.
However, according to the summit leaders, four of the Power 9 pillars have the greatest benefits. They are described as:
- Strong social bonds
- Plant-based dietary fiber
- Physical activity
- A strong sense of purpose
Taken together, these findings serve as guiding principles for better future health, emotional fulfillment, overall well-being, and dignity in aging, the article says.
“A growing body of evidence indicates that social connectedness is associated with lower mortality risk; plant-based diets are linked to better health outcomes and reduced chronic disease risk; regular physical activity helps preserve function and delay decline; and, finally, having a sense of purpose in life has been prospectively associated with greater longevity,” shared the presenters.
As the summit wrapped up, leaders emphasized that these pillars are not lofty ideals but actionable choices—small shifts in routine, community design, and public policy that collectively shape longer, healthier lives.
The message is simple: longevity isn’t accidental—it’s cultivated. And, you can get well on your way toward a better, longer life through four simple steps.
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