Mezethes:The Greeks Invented Grazing - and Longevity!

It's a hot summer afternoon. You've just returned from a walk through the town. A warm breeze is blowing off the Aegean. You're perched on a balcony, high above on a cliff, overlooking the turquoise blue waters as the seagulls fly overhead. There's a knock on your hotel room door. The server enters with a tray of assorted mezethes. He lays out a white tablecloth and sets down plates of cheeses, olives, dolmathes and other assorted small plates. Two glasses with ice and a small etched pitcher of ouzo. You inhale the licorice aroma as you sip and snack.
Is this heaven for you? It is for me! As much as I may try - I just can't recreate this scene - not even poolside in my backyard on a hot and humid summer Florida day. It's just not the same as being there! I long to be back in Greece as often as possible! but when I can't, I do my best to replicate the scene, the aromas, the foods. We play Greek music and reminisce our last trip with the family in 2019.
The foods of Greece are not just the most healthful, they are some of the most flavorful and delicious on the planet. And the healthy diet is only part of a healthy lifestyle. The island of Ikaria is considered a "Blue Zone", which is one of 5 areas in the world where people just "don't die", and have no health issues or co-morbidities (more than one disease). Most people in the Blue Zones die peacefully in their sleep, well into their 100's. This longevity is attributed to diet as well as having a purpose to daily life, staying active, low stress and restful sleep. Shouldn't we all be aspiring to live as if we are in a Blue Zone?
Small improvements make a big impact. What can do you to create a Blue Zone lifestyle?
Start with carving out regular quiet time for yourself. Find a peaceful space. Play music you love. Make some small plates of foods you enjoy. Sip some ice tea, wine or your favorite beverage. Take a nap. Perhaps in the evening, start a fire in your fire pit. Invite some friends, too. Don't make it a big deal and you'll do it more frequently! I'd love to hear how you create your own Blue Zone.