Hola!
As I spread a thick layer of sunscreen on my body and take the last few sips of my coconut cream coffee, I feel a true sense of contentment and joy.
I’m about to head down to the beach with its never ending coastlines of powerful waves, warm soft sand and a gentle breeze that kisses my face. This morning has already consisted of a early morning wake up (5am) to the sound of howler monkeys and tropical birds, my morning sadhana kundalini practice (5:15-6:15am), my morning coffee and yes, a little writing.
How could I not feel an immense sense of gratitude and love for my life in this moment?
This country is amazing. The people here are so kind, the landscape is beautiful, lush and alive, the sun energizes my creativity and the ocean cleanses my soul.
Here in Nosara where we bought our condo a few years back, there are no paved roads, no resorts, no hotels on the beach. The people respect the land and do a lot to protect the bio-diversity and beauty of the rainforests and coastlines. Costa Rican’s and the other travellers who call this place home have a true connection with the natural world.
This is why so many familiies and people (like me!) come here. We are called here by Mother Earth to connect with her truly healing powers. Yes, there are Americans and people from all over the world who have made this country their home, but they are the kind of people who do yoga, go on spiritual journey’s and want to start up organic farms. You don’t see people flaunting fancy expensive clothes, brands, cars or material extras. They live off the land and in sync with their core values.
LIVING THE PURA VIDA
Another reason we are so drawn here is the Costa Rican lifestyle. Back at home it’s a badge of honour to who can work the most, get the most followers, make the most money etc…Down here, they value time off with their families, time alone in solitude or in nature and the small things in life that bring joy and contentment. People embrace simplicity and it is always a good reminder to me and my family to what is truly important in this lifetime.
Each day for us looks a little like this:
- Travis and I wake up at 5am and practice yoga, have some coffee and enjoy time together.
- Girls wake up at 7am and have breakfast with us.
- Off to go surfing, swimming or exploring before the heat of the day.
- Come back and regroup at 11am.
- 11am-2pm is when the girls do their homeschooling, I work, we clean etc..
- 2pm back out the beach, pool, town etc.
- 5:00 pm the whole community goes down to the beach to watch the sun set. That’s where we have meet so many of our neighbours and people in the community.
- 6pm Dinner of rice and beans, tacos, or fresh fish with salad.
- 7-8pm we all gratitude journal, practice our family meditation together, and talk about the day. No one is allowed to watch any TV and no one cares. TV seems so stupid when the other option is connect and talk about the day.
- 9pm BEDTIME
This truly is PURA VIDA, their mantra which translates into “the pure life”. Yes, we may only be here for 5 weeks, but the long term goal is to make it more like 3 months out of the year and perhaps even move down here for a full year:)
I hope this post inspires you to travel to the places that are calling you!
Rebecca