It takes an entire village to raise a child. It only makes sense that it also takes an entire village to sustain an adult, or support a senior. The health of our community is a reflection of each of our own individual health. The world has become smaller, exposing us to customs and traditions from around the world that many of us have never been exposed to before. One of these concepts has been brought forward by the Blue Zones Project, the concept of the Moai.
An online search for “moai” will take you to many an interesting place. Spell the word wrong, and you will have the opportunity to learn about monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Spell the word correctly, and you may learn about the giant stone faces on Easter Island that were carved between 1250 and 1500 A.D. The definition we are seeking however has nothing to do with pharmaceutical drugs or giant stone sculptures. The moai we are talking about is quite different.
Moai is a term from Okinawa that refers to a small social group that meets regularly. The members resolve to be lifelong friends, and form a very strong social bond. Consequently, the Moai help reinforce the healthy behaviors of its members. This makes perfect sense. Surrounding yourself with people who make health a priority creates a subtle but powerful effect on your own behaviors. Studies have shown that if an individual’s friends are obese, that individual is twice as likely to be obese.
Health is a subjective term. When most of us hear the word “health”, we immediately think of physical health. The Blue Zones project have used the concept of the Moai in conjunction with people forming walking clubs that will help people build social connections. Walking is a great form of exercise that builds our cardiovascular system. Healthy socialization amongst peers is also healthy, leading to better mental health and an increased sense of well-being.
In what other ways could we apply the concept of “moai” in our lives? Remember that our definition is basically a group of friends whose interactions lead to healthier outcomes for each individual. In short, what other types of groups or interactions could we apply the “moai” concept? The answer is only as limited as your imagination!
The holidays can be a challenging time for some people. People who are alone, or are with limited friends and family may disdain the prospect of facing the holidays. Another Thanksgiving or Christmas alone can be a very depressing concept to face. Is this not a place where the moai concept can be applied? Rather than be alone during the holidays, couldn’t people short on local family and friends form a “Holiday Moai”, a group of individuals that celebrate holidays together? The same could be said about birthdays. How many times have you heard someone refer to their birthday as “just another day”? Couldn’t a group of individuals resolve to form a friendship bond centered on celebrating birthdays, a “Birthday Moai”? Why not a hybrid concept, form a walking club that celebrates holidays together? The sky is the limit!
A well-known Chinese proverb states that “A thousand mile journey begins with a single step”. Take that first step and embrace the moai! Find ways to make new friends dedicated to not only their well-being, but yours as well. Remember, there is not only strength, but also health, in numbers!
