05/27/2026
THREE LESSONS FOR SHEDDING STRESS FROM NICOYA, COSTA RICA
The 80-mile peninsula sits right on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. With a relatively small population of 47,000 residents, Nicoyans tend to live past . The roots of modern Nicoyans trace back to the indigenous Chorotega. Their ancestors’ traditions included leading lives.
Here are 3 tips on how to shed stress inspired by Nicoya:
3 LESSONS FOR SHEDDING STRESS FROM NICOYA, COSTA RICA | Nicoya is the Latin American blue zones region. The 80-mile peninsula sits right on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. With a relatively small population of 47,000 residents, Nicoyans tend to live past 100 years. The roots of modern Nicoyans trace back to the indigenous Chorotega. Their ancestors’ traditions included leading stress-free lives.
Here are 3 tips on how to shed stress inspired by Nicoya:
1. Develop a Personal Purpose Statement
All Nicoyans have a plan de vida, or a reason to live. Centenarians who find success in this region have a strong sense of purpose. They find joy in contributing to the greater good and enjoy roles that make them feel useful. According to research, purpose-driven individuals are more likely to live longer than their peers.
Hard work keeps their focus off stress and on things that are bigger than them. Nicoyans like to get their hands dirty, so physical work, chores, and activities are right up their alley. Residents spend a lot of time outside as a result, allowing them to get plenty of vitamin D.
2. Make Friends with Someone Older or Younger Than You
As expected, their active lives are just as social. Centenarians in this blue zones region have well-built social networks. Frequent visits from their neighbors are normal.
3. Put Family First
Like centenarians in other blue zones regions, Nicoyans believe in putting family first. Most families remain in one household, even through adulthood. Parents, their children, and their parents typically live under one roof, allowing them to lean on each other and learn from each other in hard times.
PHOTO: David McLain