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The Blue Zones Project

comes to St. Ann Catholic School

O ur friends, family and neighbors are Changes are already in place to improve the lives of children

at home, at school and at play. A Health and Wellness
important to us, here in Naples. As
council has formed to guide students. No more sugary
grandmother of a kindergarten student,
there is nothing more desirable than
imagining her living a long, happy and healthy life. The drinks are sold and the lunchroom is enhanced to encourage
students to make healthier choices. Physical activity is
NCH Healthcare System, which first opened the doors integrated into daily lesson plans.
in 1956, is one of the most progressive hospitals in the
country with the NCH Baker Hospital Downtown and The guidance counselor has implemented a program to
the NCH North Naples locations. teach mindfulness skills to students. A school butterfly/
plant garden is taking shape under the watchful eyes of a
“Blue Zones” is a concept that has been advocated by Dr. Master Gardener. A healthy snack and cooking cart is used
Allen Weiss and his team at the NCH Healthcare System. during lunch time. The most popular change is that the
The world’s best longevity researchers have identified playground is open for 30 minutes before school starts for
geographical pockets where people live longer lives. In children to enjoy.
these Blue Zones, lifestyle characteristics were scrutinized
and nine specific characteristics were identified. If people The Blue Zones project incorporates scientific evidence
make small, gradual changes in the way they live, it could and promotes personal well-being to guide people in
dramatically improve their well-being. the community toward better and healthier living. Even
small, consistent changes in daily personal and dietary
St. Ann has shone brightly as a beacon of light in the habits can improve longevity. Changes in exercise, diet
Naples community since 1956, also. Father Michael and and social attachments will impact our children and
Principal Gina Groch, along with Assistant Principal grandchildren by giving them a chance to live longer,
Rebecca Meinert and Sister Maureen have adopted the happy and healthier lives.
Blue Zones project for the school.

74 Life in Naples | November 2017