Deborah Szekely, at the remarkable age of 102, continues to embody the spirit of vitality and resilience by working three days a week at Rancho La Puerta, the fitness resort and spa she co-founded with her then-husband in 1940. Rancho La Puerta is recognized as one of the pioneering wellness resorts in North America, established during a period of personal and global upheaval due to World War II.

A Tumultuous Beginning

Deborah and Edmond Szekely founded Rancho La Puerta amidst significant challenges. "We had no money. What happened was the war. My husband was due to go to England, and when we married, we were going to England," Szekely tells CNBC Make It. The outbreak of World War II disrupted their plans. Edmond's U.S. visa expired, and his Jewish heritage made returning to his country of origin a dangerous option. Consequently, they moved to Mexico near the San Diego border, rented an Adobe-style storage shed, and began to lay the foundation for their wellness resort focused on health and fitness through vegetarian meals and exercise classes.

Building Rancho La Puerta

The resort quickly gained popularity due to Edmond's reputation as a health researcher and professor. "The guests came because of the Professor; his charisma, his reputation, and to hear his lectures in person, held every day under a huge oak tree," Deborah recounted. Over the years, Deborah played numerous roles at the resort, including chief cook, general manager, and activities director. She also took charge of maintaining the resort's farm, ensuring a steady supply of fresh, home-grown food—an activity common among centenarians in "Blue Zones."

A Legacy Continued

Now, Rancho La Puerta is led by Deborah's daughter, Sarah Livia Brightwood, who serves as the resort's president. Despite stepping back from the primary leadership role, Deborah remains actively involved in the resort’s operations. She continues to engage with the resort's daily activities and events, ensuring she remains connected with guests and presenters. "We have fabulous speakers every night. I meet with the presenters [every] Tuesday, so I know what my guests are talking about," she says. Her weekly schedule includes speaking engagements and personal meetings, reflecting her dedication and passion for the resort.

Staying Active and Engaged

Deborah’s involvement extends beyond Rancho La Puerta. She participates in rotary meetings to stay informed about developments at the ranch and frequently speaks at various events. Her active social life includes attending and hosting gatherings, such as the event she had planned for her 102nd birthday, which featured a guest list of close friends.

Lifelong Learning and Curiosity

A hallmark of centenarians is their continuous pursuit of knowledge and new experiences, and Deborah is no exception. She prepares thoroughly for her weekly Q&A lectures at the resort and maintains a keen interest in trying new things. During her interview, she opted to try chili cauliflower poppers, driven by curiosity about the menu description. "The main thing is: Be learning," she emphasizes. Deborah’s approach to reading involves skimming the first and last paragraphs of articles to gauge interest, diving deeper into those that capture her attention.

The Secret to Longevity

Deborah Szekely's life is a testament to the benefits of staying active, engaged, and curious. Her dedication to Rancho La Puerta, her commitment to lifelong learning, and her ability to adapt to new challenges continue to inspire those around her. Her story underscores the importance of social connections, continuous learning, and maintaining an active lifestyle, key components of a fulfilling and long life.

As she continues to influence the wellness industry and inspire others with her story, Deborah's legacy at Rancho La Puerta remains a beacon of health, wellness, and resilience.