Blue Zones Project is on the road, touring several towns throughout Koolaupoko. We began in Kahaluu, then made our second stop in Kaneohe on Saturday, June 4, where we celebrated with the community at Windward Mall's center court, and shared the Power 9^® - the nine secrets to longevity from around the world where people live happier and healthier, longer.  Adults and keiki alike enjoyed FREE smoothies, FREE giveaways, yoga and Hot Hula Fitness.  

SAVE THE DATE! Our next stop will be in Kailua on Saturday, July 30, from 2-6 p.m. at the Kailua Town Center parking garage, fronting Longs and the former Macy's location. Come out to this free, family-friendly event and experience Blue Zones Project with your ohana! 

Interested in volunteering to help at our events? Email us at bluezonesprojectkoolaupoko@healthways.com or call (808) 564-4767.

UALA LEAF CAFE AT WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE NAMED BLUE ZONES PROJECT APPROVED RESTAURANT

Earlier this month, Uala Leaf Cafe at Windward Community College was recognized as a Blue Zones Project Approved™ restaurant. The on-campus eatery achieved Blue Zones Project Approved status just five months after re-opening – an accomplishment that speaks volumes about their commitment to improving the health and well-being of those who live, work and play in Koolaupoko. 

Windward Community College Uala Leaf Café closed down in 2011. In October 2014, the Hi`ilaniwai Foodservice Innovations Training Program was born and began using the café’s commercial kitchen. Then in January of 2016, Uala Leaf Café opened its doors to the public for lunch from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and now doubles as a place where students can get on-the-job training preparing and serving food.

“As the first eatery on a University of Hawaii campus to become a Blue Zones Project Approved™ restaurant, we are excited to support this effort,” said Charlene Akina, program coordinator for the Hi`ilaniwai Foodservice Innovations Training Program. “We believe Uala Leaf Café can become the neighbor that creates nutritious, onolicious and localicious lunch choices for those who live and work in our Koolaupoko communities.”

Following the certificate presentation and cow bell ringing at Uala Leaf Cafe's Blue Zones Project recognition ceremony, attendees enjoyed live music, plant-based pupus, and wine tasting.

If you're interested in registering your restaurant for Blue Zones Project, contact Erika Starrett at Erika.Starrett@healthways.com.

WALKING MOAIS FORMED AT WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE

On Thursday, June 2, we held our first Walking Moai launch with the faculty and staff of Windward Community College. Many came out to build friendships with those they work with while making a commitment to get healthier together.

A total of 3 teams were formed: Team Happy Feet, Team Pulelehua and Team Walkie Talkies.  We are excited to follow thier moai journey in the coming weeks!

Walking Moais, which are like a hui, are groups of five to eight people who walk together at least once a week for 10 weeks to various areas throughout the community.  

The term “moai” comes from Okinawa, Japan. It means “meeting for a common purpose.” It originated as a way for villagers to support each other in good times and bad. Moai Walking Teams encourage that same social support while adding the physical benefits of walking.

Interested in joining a Walking Moai in your community? Email bluezonesprojectkoolaupoko@healthways.com or call (808) 564-4767.