‘Pura Vida’ is a term you become well acquainted with when visiting Costa Rica. For Costa Ricans, it is a phrase used on a daily basis and encapsulates a ‘no worries’ lifestyle. After visiting, it will be difficult not to take home the spirit of ‘Pura Vida’ for yourself.
What does ‘Pura Vida’ mean?
‘Pura Vida’ translates from Spanish to ‘Pure Life’. It has been used in Costa Rica for around fifty years by ‘Ticos’ (aka Costa Ricans). The phrase represents Costa Rican culture at its best and is more than just a passive phrase. It implies that life can be ever so more glorious when you shrug off the small things. Embracing ‘Pura Vida’ is a decision to simplify and say ‘that’s life’ when things go awry.
Why is ‘Pura Vida’ so popular?
In the Costa Rica, the term is contagious and recited frequently with earnest. The origins of the term is murky, but it has been around for about fifty years. The term ‘Pura Vida’ can be found everywhere in country. Whilst the country has many highlights, Costa Rica’s pride is the friendly and welcoming people. This can be attributed to the cultural commitment to enjoy life for what it is.
Costa Ricans are the experts of self-care and nothing encapsulates that better then ‘Pura Vida’. The term encourages you take a moment to enjoy simple pleasures or taking time out of the day to relax. This also includes making time with family and loved ones. In fact, Costa Rica is regarded as home to some of the happiest people on Earth.
Why is Costa Rica one of the happiest places in the world?
There is no perfect place in the world, but it’s easy to see why Costa Rica is a great contender. At its best, Costa Rican culture is one to prioritise health, self-care and rejuvenation.
Sustainability might be a factor for the country’s happiness. Costa Rica is a leading country for sustainable travel and investing in new renewable power. Studies show there is a correlation between efforts toward sustainable living and inhabitants general well-being. This is a sigh of relief considering the influx of tourists per year.
Costa Rica even overtakes the USA for average life expectancy according to the World Health Organisation. This might be attributed to their excellent universal health care system that is ranked one of the best in the world. Lower costs for health care can help eliminate stress and make an relaxed lifestyle is easier to adopt.
Costa Rica is also notable for its spectacular natural beauty. Studies suggest that being surrounded in nature helps lift your mood and overall happiness. When immersed by beautiful beaches and rolling hills, it’s difficult not to embrace a slow motion lifestyle and appreciate your surroundings.
How do you answer ‘Pura Vida’?
So now you know what ‘Pura Vida’ means, you might be wondering when and how to respond to the saying. The longer you are in Costa Rica, the more instinctive it will be to say ‘Pura Vida’. The term can be used to say hello or goodbye. It can also be a way to affirm that everything is great or to shrug something off.
It’s possible to answer almost anything with Pura Vida. The phrase encourages people to enjoy life, no matter what is thrown at them. So if you make a mistake? Pura Vida!
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