4 Reasons to Practice Yoga in Costa Rica

Pura Vida, a phrase that embodies the Costa Rican culture, lays the groundwork for why you should integrate yoga into your visit to the country. At School of the World, our naturally stress-free environment, experienced yoga instructors, and ability to connect with the ocean will allow you to use yoga as a tool to explore new areas of your mind and body.

Freedom to choose your own practice
From Ashtanga to Vinyasa, there are many different types of yoga. While most styles are based on the same basic poses, each style has its own emphasis. The practice that you choose typically has to do with personal preference. For beginning yogis, Hatha yoga connects with the easygoing nature of Costa Rica, offering a gentler and slower-paced sequence of movements. Yogis looking for an opportunity to find the adventurous elements of the country might prefer a Vinaysas flow. Vinaysas typically moves a bit faster and focuses on connecting breath with movement. Whichever practice you choose, the sand, the earth, and the salty air that fills Costa Rica will allow you to find meaning and growth in your practice.

Simplicity is often the preferred option.
Many of us come from cultures that are based on “getting ahead”, “being the best”, and “doing the most”. In Costa Rica, we pride ourselves on enjoying the simple things in life. In our yoga culture, that means embracing the learning blocks of your practice. Most of us have found ourselves in a situation where we skipped over the beginning phases and found ourselves in a situation that was too advanced for our skillset. Our laid-back environment allows both beginner and seasoned yogis the space to take the time that’s necessary to learn the basic foundation of yoga poses. This allows the body to adjust to the movements so you can grow your skill level with time.

Yoga teachers are drawn here
Costa Rica and yoga are both built on similar pillars. Connection with the earth, mind, and body, and showing love, kindness, and hospitality to all who we meet. For many years, the similarities in cultures have drawn experienced and passionate yoga teachers to reside in the country. Finding a yoga instructor that you connect with both on and off the mat is a personal experience. However, ensuring that you’re being instructed to practice movements and poses safely is dependant on the instructor’s certification status. At School of the World, we ensure that all of our yoga instructors are certified by global certification programs as well as our own teaching level standards.

Connect with yourself and nature

At School of the World, we offer a variety of approaches to cultivating a yoga practice, including Iyengar-based Hatha Yoga, Power Yoga, Vinyasa Flow, and Anusara-based classes. Our yoga classes take place both in our studio, as well as in the stunning natural landscape of Costa Rica. Attend one of our yoga retreats in Costa Rica, or combine yoga classes with other pursuits, like surfing, photography, or Spanish classes, to make the most of your stay.

Learn more about yoga retreats in Costa Rica by following us on Facebook and Instagram. And don’t forget to check out our 5 Tips for Beginner Yogis!