Blog Post

Beyond the Blue Zone

Lowell Sheppard • January 12, 2025

On March 20, 2025, my 70th birthday, I set sail on a journey that is both deeply personal and profoundly curious.


This past year, I've been based in the Ryukyu Islands, particularly Okinawa - a region renowned as a "Blue Zone" for its high concentration of centenarians. But as I've discovered, other prefectures like Shimane and Kagoshima are rewriting the narrative, often surpassing Okinawa in longevity statistics.

A green sailboat is docked in the middle of a cove.

What are their secrets?

Beyond diet and exercise, how do social rituals, community traditions, and coastal lifestyles contribute to such remarkable lives?


At 70 years old, I’m setting sail to explore these questions firsthand, connecting with Japan's diverse communities, uncovering their wisdom, and sharing their stories.


From the blossoms of spring to the tides of change, this voyage is about more than sailing. It's about going beyond the Blue Zone to discover what truly sustains us - physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

A man is standing on a sailboat in the ocean.

Join the Journey

This season on Pacific Solo is not just about my adventure - it's about sparking curiosity and inspiring exploration.

Follow my voyage along Japan's coastlines, anchored by the beauty of the cherry blossoms.

Dive into stories of resilience, aging, and connection from the people I meet along the way.

Reflect on what it means to live with purpose and embrace the changing seasons of life.

Whether you're a sailor, a dreamer, or simply someone curious about life's big questions, there's something here for you.

A sailboat in the ocean with the sun shining through the sails

Join the adventure by following the Pacific Solo YouTube Channel, reading the latest updates on the Pacific Solo blog, and exploring the resources and inspiration at the Never Too Late Academy - where dreamers and other never-too-laters share insights and support.

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