Two simple words. Pura Vida!

It is a true testament to how Costa Ricans live.  This simple phrase translates to “pure life” or “simple life” and comes from a 1956 movie of the same name.  During the movie, the main character would say “Pura Vida” to stay optimistic, happy, and full of life despite his constant blunders and misadventures.

Costa Rica is still one of the happiest countries in the world.  The people say Pura Vida to hello, goodbye, or even let others know everything’s good.  They have adopted this as an attitude and way of life.  They embody it in their day to day, and it shows.  Travel around Costa Rica and feel their passion.  It’s contagious.

It is a mindfulness to be happy with all the wonderful things you have in your life.  It’s that level of gratitude that brings one to living in joy.  It takes one to a place where boundaries become easier from knowing what is yours to worry about and what is not for you to stress over.

It brings one to a place where you feel secure and know that no matter what, it will all be OK.  Life is too precious to live in stress, fear, or anxiety.  Costa Ricans thrive in a stress-free, laid-back environment – truly Pura Vida.

Costa Ricans are so peaceful they don’t believe in a military.  How many countries do you know without a military?  That fact alone makes me want to live there.

Pura Vida is an emotion, an attitude, a way to live healthily.  May I encourage you to live this way?  Can you wake up every morning in gratitude for the day ahead?

Imagine seeing all the blessings in your life.  This is an enthusiastic way of living.  It’s you in control.  You as the driver.  You on fire!  Pura Vida is an activated life.   So go for it.  Master the art of activated living.