"5 Steps to Longevity-the Ikarian Way" Program
The Ikaria Longevity Retreat introduces the 5 Steps to Longevity Program: Meditation, Diet, Mild Movement, Siesta, Connecting.
Angeliki Douka (Bs of Physical Education, MA in Psychology of Motor Behavior, PhD in Psychology of Sports and Aqua Fitness Expert) and Kyriaki Spanou (BS in Philosophy, MA in Theatre) have developed and apply this program. Both Angeliki and Kyriaki are two visionaries of Longevity and Wellbeing who spread the message of an alternative lifestyle based on the Ikarian way of living and have designed a program that can be communicated concisely and shared globally. Their warmth and generosity makes the experience enjoyable, emotional and unique.
Ikaria is one of the five Blue Zones in the world and its inhabitants are globally famous for living a long and serene life due to their stress – free everyday life, healthy plant-based diet, community bonds and their easy going philosophy of living. Nearly one of three Ikarians make it to their 90s. They eat little, walk long distances, laugh and greet you with warmth and sincerity. They will often take you to their homes. One thing most Ikarians will never stop doing is: GIVING.
MEDITATION
The people in Ikaria Island used to have many lonely hours working in the fields and moving around. That gave them the time to contemplate life. Meditation is the ideal practice to reinvent this -invigorative habit.
DIET
Eating is our most direct and close relationship to the world (next to breathing). It shows deep respect to our self to get the best food we can and to make it an enjoyable experience by eating slowly with company. Ikarian diet is a plant and fish-based diet. The island has more than 150 antioxidant-rich herbs and wild greens that due to Ikaria’s acidic soil develop antioxidant qualities beneficial to people. It is a diet poor in meat. They consume only what it comes from home grown chickens and wild goats. Fresh fish is also an essential part of their diet.
MILD MOVEMENT
Mild movement in the water (Aqua Tai Chi and Aqua Yoga) combines the beneficial effects of movement, the therapeutic power of water and the meditative quality of yoga. This refers ideally to the Ikarian way of movement of walking and swimming.
SIESTA
At the Ikaria Longevity Retreat we encourage our quests to have a short midday rest or siesta. Harvard school of Public Health has shown naps help to relieve psychological stress and protect the heart from stress-related problems.
CONNECTING
The famous longevity of the Ikarians is due to their carefree attitude which is built through openness communication, solidarity, responsibility, and festive spirit. An attitude which is encouraged in our program with specially designed theater techniques.
The program includes visits at hot springs, winery, beekeeping, along with mountain hicking and finally the famous panigyri (religious feast)!
Angeliki and Kyriaki are exceptional ambassadors of Ikarian life and are committed in sharing the values and secrets of Longevity through their 5 Steps Program.
