Dr. Bitner recently traveled to Costa Rica to participate in a menopause documentary. While there, she connected with local communities, learned from her peers, and contributed to a powerful study to help menopausal women. In Costa Rica, the phrase that people greet each other with, either coming or going, is Pura Vida. During Dr. Bitner’s time, she realized that the statement was more than just a saying but a meaningful way of life. This week on Fox17, Dr. Bitner shares what it truly means to live by Pura Vida and the powerful impact it can have on our health.
Fact #1
Pura Vida is a way of life. It prioritizes strong social connections, connecting with your personal purpose, and caring for your physical and mental well-being. This purposeful living is fueled by finding joy in the little things, whether it’s a sunset, a favorite meal, or seeing your kids smile. When we strive to implement the Pura Vida mentality into our daily lives, our brain health and overall wellness can significantly improve.
Fact #2
Learn from other cultures. Costa Ricans have adapted the Pura Vida way of life, and there are statistics to support their lifestyles. Costa Rican men have an 18% lower mortality rate than American men, and women have a 10% lower mortality rate than American women, despite higher income and spending on healthcare. Their healthcare system is also ranked above the US and New Zealand, with a strong focus on primary care. While Dr. Bitner was visiting, she had the opportunity to learn that many citizens credit their longevity to their relationships and perspective on life.
Fact #3
Adopting the Pura Vida perspective to your lifestyle. At true., we use tools like SEEDS® – The Seven Essential Elements for Daily Success – to empower women to make small habit changes and live healthier lifestyles. These resources can be helpful when reflecting on how to incorporate elements of the Pura Vida lifestyle into your reality. This could look like practicing gratitude, finding time to strengthen your mind and body connection, and investing in your relationships. Here are a few practical ways you can nourish your mind and body for healthy aging:
- Water: Aim to get 80 oz. of water.
- Sleep: Strive for an average of 7 hours of restful sleep per night.
- Micronutrients: Prioritize a multivitamin and Vitamin D supplement.
- Macronutrients: Try to get five servings of high-fiber carbohydrates, three servings of healthy unsaturated fats, and five servings of lean protein each day.
- Exercise: Throughout the week, include a balanced mix of aerobic or Zone 2 cardio, strength training, and stretching.
- Fiber: Prioritize 35g of fiber per a day.
- Mindfulness: Practice metered breathing and gratitude.
Patient Story:
Jane, 44, was a busy mom and wanted to find a balance between her work and home life this summer. She reflected on her past summers, which always felt busy. Her schedule was filled with evening activities for the kids, taking care of her mom, and family vacations. At her next check-in, she shared her concerns about this upcoming summer with her doctor. Her doctor walked her through true.’s SEEDS® and asked her about her goals of where she wanted to be and feel by the end of summer.
Jane left the appointment feeling empowered with a list of doable changes she could implement into her routine this summer. She planned to stick to her fitness routine, stretch as a family at night, and practice gratitude before meals. She mapped out her family’s schedule for the summer and made sure there was time for her to do the things she loved, like beach days and hikes. Jane felt relieved and excited that she found tangible ways to implement the Pura Vida mentality into her lifestyle.
Takeaway Tip:
Reflect on how you can bring the Pura Vida perspective into your current lifestyle! Making small steps to foster mind-body connection, find joy in the day-to-day, and connect with others can have a powerful impact on your health. Find one way to live Pura Vida today and step towards healthy aging!
