Archive for January, 2012

“A Little Piece of Paradise”

Monday, January 30th, 2012

Blue Osa Yoga Retreat and Spa, Costa Rica is a little piece of paradise and my trip this year will live in my heart forever. I fell in love with the place the moment we arrived and were greated with warmth and smiles as if we were old friends being welcomed back home. Aaron, our wonderful host is so welcoming and you can tell he takes great pride in ensuring that every moment of your stay is a happy one. He takes care to ask each indviduals personal needs or wants whether it is from spa treatments to excursions and makes sure that everyone is taken care of. The manager Michael is equally accomodating, and always greeting you with a smile and asking how your day is. And then there is Paul, the bartender, but not just a bartender, he’s like an old friend the minute you meet him. He has this amazing shiny personality and smile that welcome you and make you laugh. The staff are like a family at Blue Osa who mindfully take great care of you, making you feel like you are part of the family too…it’s not often you find this type of service on vacation!
The grounds are beautiful and beautifully kept with care. The beach is spectacular and the view from the yoga deck is incredible. Practicing twice a day to the soundtrack of the jungle and ocean waves is enchanting and inspiring.
I also love the fact that this was an eco lodge that is solar powered…it helped me connect to a deep appreciation of our surroundings and I have brought home that same awareness, being more mindful of waste and conserving water and energy wherever I can.
The spa is also amazing. I think I had the best massage EVER from Jesus and I while I did not get a treatment from Marcella, a number of ladies in the group I was with did, and they were raving about her facials! I did have a facial with Aaron which was beyond words. He took great care and it was like a beautiful ritual that left me feeling so relaxed and amazed that my skin could look and feel so great. I would highly recommend at least one treatment at the spa…it is a huge treat!
And then there is the food. There is so much to say about the food. It is simply beautiful. Mindfully prepared by the lovely Marie, she takes care to prepare the meals with love and positive intention. She was so sweet to ask every individual their dietary needs and always ensured there was a vegetarian (or many) option available. Every dish was delicious and I love the fact that most of the fruits and veggies are grown right on the property. Marie’s cooking actually inspired me to write about it on our yoga studio website. Eating beautiful food in a beautiful place with amazing people was so nourishing…it was simply perfect!
I couldn’t have asked for more from my trip to Blue Osa. I feel extremely grateful for the incredible experience and I can’t wait to go back! Thank you to everyone at Blue Osa for an amazing week, you are awesome!

The Five Steps – Part 3

Thursday, January 26th, 2012

In the Yoga sutras, Patanjali talks about the 5 steps, or 5 qualities to enlightenment.

In the sutras, Patanjali very skillfully outlines what it takes to set yourself up for a successful practice and gives us amazing tools on how to live a happier life. “All future suffering can be avoided.”

So this is part three, in a five part series.

The Five Steps – Part Three

Enjoy!

Aaron

The Story of Blue Osa – Part 2

Monday, January 16th, 2012

The Story of Blue Osa – Part 1

Monday, January 16th, 2012

Cooking in the Kitchen with Marie – Episode 2

Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012