If you have ever traveled to Costa Rica, or if you are currently planning a trip, there is one crucial phrase that you must be familiar with: “Pura Vida.” Literally translated the phrase means “pure life,” and Costa Ricans (or Ticos) use it to express almost anything, from “hello” to “goodbye" to “everything’s great,” and so much more!
But “pura vida” is much more than a simple phrase—it is a way of life. Pura Vida is a philosophy that celebrates simple, stress-free living. And I think we can all stand to learn a thing or two about that!
Continue reading to get a glimpse into the Costa Rican Pura Vida lifestyle!
Spend Time with Family and Friends
Family is the epicenter of Costa Rican society and community. Large families, which include siblings, cousins, and even friends and neighbors, gather for frequent celebrations—barbecues, birthdays, and casual Sunday lunches. The love, support, and belonging found in the multigenerational family unit is one of the reasons that Costa Rica has consistently been named the happiest country on earth. A large part of the Pura Vida lifestyle involves caring more for relationships than for tasks—so don’t be surprised when small tasks may take a long time because people are chatting with one another! Pura Vida truly teaches us to be fully aware of the important people in our lives and to make it a priority to spend time with them.
Be Friendly
Costa Ricans are well-known for being some of the friendliest people on earth. The Pura Vida culture celebrates being welcoming, both to neighbors dropping by to say hello and to foreigners visiting the country. Connecting with others, both friends and strangers, alike, is central to the Pura Vida lifestyle. The culture encourages people to slow down and talk with others, preferably over cafecito (coffee!). It is that community that contributes to the overall happiness.
Get Outside
With Costa Rica’s warm weather all year-round, it is easy to get outside and into the sun! Moderate sun exposure is notoriously linked to increased Vitamin D absorption, higher quality sleep, lower blood pressure, and a stronger immune system. The sunlight is even proven lead to increased happiness!
It is also no secret that getting into nature is good for the soul—from hiking to biking to surfing to swimming, Costa Rica has a lot to offer. In fact, it is one of the best places in the world to experience the beauty of nature! Getting outside and being active can help reduce stress and increase happiness—all part of the Pura Vida philosophy!
Eat Simple
The Costa Rican diet typically consists of rice, beans, vegetables, fish, meat, yucca, and tropical fruits. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are often home-cooked and locally sourced. By fueling our bodies with real foods (not overly processed or fast food), it is easier to stay healthy, active, and, overall, happy. That is Pura Vida!
Make Time
The essence of Pura Vida is simple: make time for what’s important in life and don’t sweat the small stuff. It’s easy to get busy, to get caught up in the chores and mundane tasks of daily life. Pura Vida is about making time to see the people we love; spending time outside; watching a sunset; walking instead of driving; and taking life more slowly.
By slowing down, reducing stress, and enjoying the people and places that surround us, we can all join in the pura vida lifestyle!
Post written by Grace Klopp