Costa Rica is a leading destination for international tourism, an industry which brought the nation over $5 billion in revenue last year alone. There are many possible reasons for Costa Rica’s rising popularity as a travel destination, but one of its most attractive features is its unique “Pura Vida” culture.
Pura Vida is a popular expression in Costa Rica, literally translating to “pure life” in English. When used in Costa Rica, this phrase refers to an optimistic, easygoing outlook that seems to permeate everyday life. That kind of environment is likely a large part of the nation’s draw for tourists.
More Than Just an Expression
The peace and relaxation brought about by embracing the Pura Vida spirit go beyond just having a relaxing vacation—science suggests that an optimistic outlook helps manage stress response, reduce depressive symptoms, and can even lead to an overall higher quality of life. As a nation which prides itself on its optimistic spirit, Costa Rica offers more than just a place to relax or have fun. It’s a place to transform your life.
Planning a visit to Costa Rica and want to experience Pura Vida for yourself? Here are three ways to decompress in Costa Rica that are also scientifically proven mood boosters.
Soaking Up Sun
With hundreds of miles of coastline, Costa Rica is an ideal place to spend some time relaxing on the beach. From the Atlantic to Pacific coast, vacationers love to spend time surfing, swimming, and sunbathing on Costa Rica’s beaches. But the benefits of a beach day go deeper than just a day of fun and relaxation. There are many ways that a good beach day can act as a natural mood enhancer.
Firstly, the sun exposure you can expect while at the beach is an excellent source of Vitamin D. Among other health benefits, , suggesting a correlation between healthy Vitamin D exposure and improved mental health.
Furthermore, oceanside environments are rich with , invisible particles found in certain natural settings which are linked with improvements in mood. In fact, in the right amounts, some trials have found negative ions to be effective in treating depression.
Summary
- Spending time on the beach exposes you to plenty of Vitamin D, which can combat mental unwellness.
- The air around the ocean is filled with negative ions, which can improve mood and reduce depressive symptoms.
Step Into the Rainforest
Costa Rica is home to millions of acres of natural rainforest, filled to the brim with a wealth of natural sights and sounds. This gives visitors the rare opportunity to immerse themselves in a lush environment, surrounded by the wildlife of the Costa Rica rainforest , and it’s an opportunity worth taking for the benefits it provides.
Research supports the idea that . Some have suggested that this is due to a more consistent level of stimulus, unlike in many urban environments where many things can be happening at once. Escaping into a haven where you are surrounded by natural life can help you to put aside the anxieties of everyday life and find a sense of peace.
The calming aura of the rainforest can also reduce strain on your attention, helping rebuild your concentration. Strong attention skills are , which could lead to a greater sense of happiness in the long-term.
Summary
- The levels of stimulation in the rainforest tend to be more consistent than in urban environments, helping with relaxation.
- Being in the rainforest can also improve concentration and emotional regulation.
Wonder at Waterfalls
While in Costa Rica, you may find yourself with the opportunity to visit one of the many gorgeous waterfalls the nation plays host to. No matter the shape or size, waterfalls are a gorgeous sight and a great hiking destination. Aside from this, taking in the scenery at a waterfall can also support a healthier mind.
Much like the ocean, waterfalls are also rich in negative ions, making them natural mood-boosters. They can also have attention-regulating properties similar to those of the forest. Science shows that even just seeing an image of a waterfall can boost mood and help people relax.
Research also shows that , or overthinking—patterns of thinking which can harm mental health. Whether it’s a short walk to Uvita Waterfall or the more challenging , taking advantage of Costa Rica’s abundance of waterfall walks is a no-brainer for improving mental health.
Summary
- Waterfalls are rich in negative ions, which are beneficial for mental and emotional wellness, and waterfall sounds can boost and restore attention skills.
- Seeing an image of a waterfall has been proven to help with mood and relaxation.
- Nature hikes have been shown to decrease overthinking, helping to soothe anxiety and depression symptoms.
Conclusion
Given the natural bounty that is Costa Rica, it should be no surprise that the positive, Pura Vida mindset has taken hold. If you’re looking for a truly rejuvenating getaway, Costa Rica has much to offer. Thanks to the nation’s biodiversity, there are many ways to relax and restore your mental and emotional wellbeing. So make the most of these natural treasures, and embrace the spirit of Pura Vida.
