When we set out on this journey of traveling to Ikaria, Greece with a small group of educators and graduate nursing students, I think most of us had an idea of what we wanted to learn and experience. I wanted to learn more about the amazing people of this island and what we could bring back with us to help our communities. I know I learned far more than I ever expected.
What resonated the most with me on this trip was the purposefulness of the people of Ikaria. It is reflected in what they do every day. From the youngest to the oldest, everyone has a purpose and I think many of us were most surprised with the older adults who we saw still walking up steps on the side of the mountain to complete their daily chores. These were people in their mid-80’s! Or the 90+ year old man who was still tending his sheep next door to our inn. They were all very alert and very engaged in conversation and what was happening around them. How different their lives are compared to many of the older adults in the U.S. We have much to learn from Ikarians.
The simplicity of their lives allowed them (and us) to take many moments to sit back and enjoy life, and not watch the clock. To live in the moment was most important rather than browsing the internet and social media of which we did not have time for. It was good to see how we were all engaged with each other and the Ikarian people, truly immersed in our cultural experience. It was amazing how our lives were so different those five days in Ikaria. This difference I pledge to work into my daily life here in Indiana.
As I browse through the pictures of the trip, I can’t help but smile and be reminded of the many beautiful sites we visited and the amazing people we met, talked with, laughed with and danced with. What we learned from the island of Ikaria and its people is invaluable but even better, can be shared with the people in our communities as well as our families to fulfill our ultimate goal of helping to make our lives healthier. We can ALL aspire to be like Ikarians.
Christina Swathwood
