For Charlie Blaylock, farming is his “ikigai,” a Japanese concept meaning “why I wake up in the morning.” Since childhood, he has felt a calling to work outdoors, and while it took a couple of decades and a few career twists and turns, he finally tapped into his life’s purpose six years ago when he started Shine’s Farmstand.

Faith, fellowship and belonging can add years to your life. In the world’s original Blue Zones, belonging to a faith-based community and regularly attending services was shown to add from four to 14 years of life expectancy – no matter which faith.

As many organizations have done during the COVID-19 crisis, Blue Zones Project has pivoted from its more traditional work to projects that align with immediate and emerging needs in the community.

Double Up Food Bucks Program at Cowtown Farmers Market Enables SNAP Recipients to Stretch Their Food Dollars.

The school year is coming to a close. Students and educators will miss those end-of- the-year events and goodbye hugs. However, there are plenty of virtual tools to help keep children engaged and learning all summer long. Check out these resources and be sure to follow our Facebook page for more tips. Have a healthy summer!

Fort Worth Bike Sharing's “Free First Fri-Yay,” powered by Blue Zones Project, provides free BCycle rides on the first Friday of every month in 2020.

Customers with young children can now borrow a book at the entrance of some area Tom Thumb grocery stores for children to enjoy while they shop. But the books aren’t just to entertain children. The books were intentionally selected to engage and educate children about the many things they might see while in a grocery store – particularly healthy fruits and vegetables, where food comes from, and the importance of those who provide our food. Some books also cover mindfulness, another topic that is important to well-being, especially in children. The books are available for a variety of age levels -- even picture books for the youngest shoppers.

Thanks to companies like Shield Engineering Group, fresh produce continues to get more accessible and affordable in Southeast Fort Worth.

Daggett Middle School is breaking new ground in the effort to offer more healthy food options to Fort Worth ISD students and families. With the help of Blue Zones Project, Tarrant Area Food Bank (TAFB), and Fidelity Investments, Daggett is now offering a healthy food pantry right on campus, a first-of-its kind effort for the school district.  

November is National Gratitude Month. Gratitude encompasses more than just saying “thank you.” Incorporating an attitude of gratitude into your life can give you a deeper connection to yourself and those around you, leading to greater well-being.