On Nonnamaxxing

I have a bit that I do for my friends that goes “my family’s so Italian,” and then I’ll insert a quirk of my family’s that’s particularly Italian — an Italian-ism, if you will. (I promise, I have a point.)

A favorite of mine is, “my family’s so Italian, we know this guy, Ronny, who supplies us with sausages every Christmas.” Or, “my family’s so Italian, my grandfather made Sunday Sauce just about every weekend to share with his children and grandchildren.”

All of which is to write, if anyone knows a thing or two about “Nonnamaxxing,” it’s me.

Well, not really — as The Guardian article I stumbled upon articulates, there’s a bit more to Nonnamaxxing than regularly consuming pasta. (Alas!)

Rather, Nonnamaxxing consists of all that Nonnas do to ensure their longevity and contentment — such as, “walking everywhere, cooking for others, spending time with family and getting all up in everyone’s business.” 

Moreover, Nonnamaxxing is emblematic of a “Blue Zone lifestyle.” 

Globally, there are five Blue Zones — one of which is in Sardinia, Italy, hence Nonnamaxxing — and each is marked for its sheer number of centenarians in residence. Per Dan Buetter, an explorer (self-described) at the helm of Blue Zone research, the longevity of those living in Blue Zones can be attributed to their dietary habits, regular movement, and prioritization of family.

So maybe there is something to consuming a healthy dose of carbs… mangia bene!

Photo Source: Entertainment Weekly