Streaming giant Netflix is preparing to launch a docu-series exploring the science and lifestyles behind the world’s leading longevity hotspots, dubbed Blue Zones.

Going live on 30 August, the four-part series, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones, will be hosted by National Geographic fellow, explorer, author and Blue Zones founder Dan Buettner.

Since 2004, Buettner has been researching Blue Zone communities (in Sardinia, Italy; Okinawa, Japan; Nicoya, Costa Rica; Ikaria, Greece; and Loma Linda, California) to understand what keeps people thriving and healthy to age 100.

His discovery: their longevity has nothing to do with self-discipline or complex health and fitness regimes. Instead, it’s these communities’ holistic ecosystems that make the healthy choice the easy one – residents are naturally nudged towards daily movement, a plant-based diet, strong social connections and a sense of purpose.

The upcoming Netflix series will journey through the five locations and spotlight each community’s diet, lifestyle and culture.

The documentary has been created by MakeMake Entertainment following a five-year journey with Buettner.

Angus Wall, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones executive producer, said: “This has been a labour of love for everyone involved.

“MakeMake wants to put stories out into the world that help us figure out how to move forward, and It’s been very inspiring to experience the lives of so many individuals who know how to truly live. We can’t wait to share their wisdom with the rest of the world.”

To find out more about Blue Zones, read Buettner’s interview with Spa Business here.