Bringing Home Pura Vida: Lessons from Costa Rica
I recently returned from a trip to Costa Rica, where I was introduced to a phrase that captures the essence of life there: Pura Vida. Translated literally, it means “pure life,” but in reality, it carries a much deeper meaning. Pura Vida is a way of living—one that embraces joy, simplicity, gratitude, and connection. It is a mindset, a rhythm, and a reminder that life is meant to be lived, not just managed.
One of the most striking examples of Pura Vida in action was how people gathered at the beach each evening at sunset. Whether to surf, watch the sky change colors, or simply be in the presence of others, this daily ritual was about more than just winding down—it was about reconnecting. Families arrived together, children played soccer with adults, surfers of all ages rode the waves, and conversations flowed effortlessly. Afterward, people would head home or out to share a meal, continuing the sense of community that seemed to be woven into daily life.
There, it felt like work was just one part of life—not the centre of it. People worked, of course, but they also made space for joy, rest, movement, and connection. That balance was palpable, and it made me reflect on my own rhythms and routines.
Now that I’m home, I find myself asking: How can I bring the spirit of Pura Vida into my daily life?
For me, it means being more present—with my family, my friends, and even in the simple moments of my day. It means getting outside more, whether that’s stepping into nature in the middle of my workday or unwinding with a walk after sessions wrap up. It means nourishing my body with food that fuels me rather than just sustains me. It means moving more—not out of obligation, but because it feels good to be in my body.
Most of all, it means remembering that life isn’t something to push through or optimize. It’s something to fully experience.
If you were to embrace Pura Vida, what would that look like for you? What small shifts could you make to invite more presence, balance, and joy into your days? Maybe it’s stepping away from your desk for a moment of fresh air, prioritizing time with loved ones, or simply slowing down to appreciate the ordinary beauty around you.
Costa Rica may have introduced me to Pura Vida, but the choice to live it is mine to make—wherever I am. Maybe it can be yours too.