I still haven’t quite figured out how to do Christmas without a little stress. I decided to skip the holidays for a few years when we moved to Costa Rica. But this year we’re here in the US, enjoying time with the family; cooking, eating, and giving gifts. But now and then I feel the stress start to creep in and I have to find a way to release it. Celebrating Christmas once every few years works for me – but I want to enjoy it, life is too short.
Stress is necessary for life. You need stress for creativity, learning, and for your very survival. Stress is only harmful when it becomes overwhelming and unfortunately, overwhelming stress has become an increasingly common characteristic of our everyday lives. When stressors throw your nervous system out of balance, relaxation practices can bring it back into a balanced state. Many of us know this, but taking the time to stop the madness and keep ourselves calm, happy and relaxed is not always easy. It’s so easy to lose ourselves, especially around this busy season.
Stress relief
For me, movement is the best way to destress. Mindful movement like dance, yoga or even a simple walk brings me right back to my most grounded center. At our retreat we make sure there are an abundance of opportunities to release stress; to move, breathe, and get in shape.
Beth, our yoga/dance teacher, is a vital part of making that happen. She too finds her more centered self by moving her body, whether that’s through her yoga practice, dancing, or her moonlight treks through the Costa Rican countryside. Here is a quick note from Beth who shares a little of her journey to Costa Rica and what you can expect from her classes.
Greetings from Costa Rica!
I am honored and delighted that Lynn and Todd have asked me back to lead yoga for the upcoming 9-Day Mariposa Cleanse Retreat. I so look forward to getting to know you all and to share my yoga practice with you as well.
I have lived in Costa Rica (my version of paradise!!!) for over a decade. We relocated from the U.S.A. in 2003 – a homeschooling family with 2 sons (ages 8 and 10 now 19 and 21) to provide ourselves with fresh air, fresh water, home grown organic food, and a simpler more natural lifestyle. We have accomplished this and are still striving to maximize all potential.
I love to move, challenge and revitalize my physical, spiritual and mental self in a natural setting. I have been a certified yoga instructor for 20 years and love to share my practice. Even more important is that I help my students to make it their practice.
I come from a ballet and modern dance background and have much respect for these disciplines. While living in New York City (“waiting” for dance opportunities to come up) I became a personal trainer and aerobic dance instructor and furthered my knowledge and experience by receiving certifications in both areas.The only thing lacking for me there was a disconnection to nature. Since moving to Costa Rica, I get to walk beautiful jungle paths, hike the mountains that make this area famous, and swim in natural river and ocean waters. Living here has become a way to satisfy and integrate all sides of me!
So again, I look forward to spending a week with you. If you’ve never experienced yoga on a hillside yoga platform you are in for a real treat. Together we will explore different kinds of movement and stillness, honoring the various levels of energy and ability that are present, while surrounded by nature in it’s purest form. I value fun and encourage my students to smile and laugh throughout their practice. I honor, as well, that this is YOUR retreat and YOUR time to explore and discover the many sides of yourself. I want to help you maximize your intentions and guide you in your experience here in Costa Rica.
See you soon!
Beth
I hope you all find time in the coming weeks to move your body, de-stress and connect with loved ones. Take a yoga class, go dancing, or take the family on an after-dinner walk. And don’t forget to smile!
Wishing everyone a very Happy Holiday!
Lynn