Pura Vida: Five Lessons I Brought Home from Costa Rica
When I traveled to Costa Rica, I expected to learn how to build a lifestyle program that could help other people. What I didn't expect was how much it would change me.
Costa Rica is one of the world's Blue Zones, where people tend to live longer, healthier lives. Everywhere I looked, there were reminders that wellness isn't about perfection. It's about the little things you choose every day.
Here are five lessons I brought home that I hope inspire you, too.
- Eat food that fuels your body.
One of the first things I noticed was the abundance of fresh fruit and vegetable stands. At our retreat, meals centered around vegetables, beans, rice, chicken, and fresh fruit instead of heavily processed foods.
Healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated. Real food gives your body and brain the nutrients they need to think clearly, stay productive, and feel your best. Small changes over time can make a big difference in your overall health.
- Slow down once in a while.
One of my favorite moments in Costa Rica was meeting a sloth.
Sloths have become a symbol of slowing down, and I think many of us could learn something from them. We often rush from one task to the next without giving ourselves time to breathe.
When your mind has time to rest, you're often more creative, more focused, and better equipped to handle life's challenges. Slowing down isn't being lazy. It's giving yourself the chance to recharge.
- Move your body because it feels good.
Walking on the beach reminded me that exercise doesn't have to happen inside a gym.
Movement comes in many forms. Whether it's taking a walk after dinner, gardening, dancing in your living room, or walking along the shoreline, every step benefits your body and mind.
Regular movement helps reduce stress, improves sleep, boosts your mood, and supports brain health. Find something you enjoy and make it part of your routine.
- Life is better when we work together.
One phrase you'll hear throughout Costa Rica is Pura Vida.
It means much more than "pure life." It's a way of living that embraces gratitude, optimism, kindness, and community, even during difficult times.
One of the most meaningful parts of our trip was learning that the proceeds from our workshop helped purchase additional rainforest acreage next to the retreat. It was a reminder that when people come together with a shared purpose, they can make a lasting impact.
Whether it's supporting your family, helping a neighbor, or volunteering in your community, we're stronger when we work together.
- Spend more time in nature.
Costa Rica's respect for nature is impossible to miss. The country is committed to protecting its incredible biodiversity, and spending time there reminded me how important nature is for our own health.
Research shows that spending time outdoors can lower stress, reduce blood pressure, strengthen your immune system, improve sleep, and even boost memory and concentration.
Sometimes improving your health is as simple as taking a walk outside, sitting under a tree, or enjoying a sunset.
And if you're lucky, you might even meet a colorful little crab along the way.
Bringing Pura Vida Home
The biggest lesson I brought home wasn't a new diet or exercise program.
It was the reminder that living well isn't about making one huge change. It's about making small, intentional choices each day. Eating nourishing foods, moving your body, slowing down, spending time in nature, and connecting with others all contribute to a healthier, happier life.
You don't have to travel to Costa Rica to experience Pura Vida.
You can start today, right where you are, with one small healthy choice.
After all, a healthy life isn't built in a day. It's built one choice at a time.