You may have noticed I took a week off from the blog. I normally do a few canned posts for when we go on vacation or write about our trip while we’re away. This year I didn’t do anything in advance and when we were away, I wasn’t feeling it. We mostly went to bed early and got up early, so I had time but I needed a break.
5 Signs You Need a Break
- You feel unproductive or have trouble concentrating.
- You’re easily irritated.
- You can’t sleep well.
- You lack motivation or desire to do things you normally enjoy.
- You’re constantly tired or fatigued.
I checked all of these boxes. I think the main reasons for this were all of the stressful happenings in Chicago (and the US in general) and running two marathons in a month during a difficult training season for me.
Costa Rica was the perfect place for us to recharge. It’s filled with natural beauty and the “pura vida” way of life is pervasive. “Pura vida” literally translates to “pure life” but is a Costa Rican expression for a way of life that emphasizes a positive, relaxed and happy outlook. It’s used as a greeting, a farewell, to say everything is great, to shrug off minor frustrations – essentially meaning “life is good” or “don’t worry about it”.
We went to three different areas – La Fortuna in Arenal, Monteverde and Sardinal in the Gulf of Papagayo. We loved all three, saw monkeys in each place (and many other animals), hiked, swam, walked, read and relaxed. We had delicious food, cooked with a local family and went to one of the 20 most romantic restaurants in the world for our anniversary.
I’m so grateful for the opportunity to get away and to recharge. What’s your favorite way to recharge your batteries?
I’m linking up with Darlene, Michelle, Renee and Jenn for Fit Five Friday. Join us!