Lo Que Hice - What I Did
Below is a brief overview of just a few of the many learning experiences I was fortunate enough to have during my time in Costa Rica. Visit my Journal page to read in more detail just how transformational each of these programs were for me, and see my Momentos Esenciales page to further explore those that had the most profound impact on me.
Actividad 1
Heredia Nueva y Viejo Mercados
Durante el primero día en Heredia con el programa, la clase y yo fuimos del centro de la ciudad para dar un paseo por el mercado. Estaba muy ocupado, con muchos vendedores de comida, ropa, hierbas y más. Compramos frutas y comimos todos el mismo día, muchas de las frutas son nuevas para nosotros.
Actividad 2
La Fortuna
The three-hour bus ride from Heredia through the mountains was made well worth it when we saw the falls at La Fortuna cascading between walls of lush landscape. This location encapsulates the true, authentic form that nature takes on in this part of the world and the respect that those who live here have for it. It put into perspective what the rest of the world might look like if it were never touched.
Actividad 3
Bogarin Naturaleza
El fundador de Bogarin Trail era muy generoso con su tiempo y pasaba la clase y yo un tour caminando por el parque. Vimos peligrosos, tucanes, iguanas, ranas, y muchas plantas medicinales. Algunos árboles son muy viejos de mi! Fue una experiencia inspiradora, porque al final del tour, el fundador habló de la importancia de la conservación y la naturaleza - y cómo su parte está para la generación siguiente continuar.
Actividad 4
EBAIS
Visiting the EBAIS for the nearest region of Heredia was the catalyst for me realizing the profound differences that the Costa Rica healthcare system holds in comparison to that of the United States. Having the opportunity to shadow seven different specialties under one roof and see first hand how equally accessible a decent standard of care is for all citizens was remarkable - much more to be said in my journal.
Actividad 5
Bailar
Para mi, este aspecto de la cultura es muy auténtico de mi expectativas de Costa Rica, por eso fue emocionante aprender. Mi amiga Laura fue mi compañera, y juntos bailamos mucho! Fue una buena receso del programa ocupada.
Actividad 6
La Comida Cultura
It is one thing to travel to a new location, but it is an entirely different experience to live like a resident while you are there. Being with Costa Rican families for the duration of the trip and eating at local restaurants where fruits and vegetables that thrive in the tropical climate were incorporated into each meal made each meal a learning opportunity.
Actividad 7
ARK Hacienda de las Hierbas Medicinal
Para mi, esta experiencia hizo el mejor impacto de mi entendimiento de la medicina holística. Quise traer a los Estados Unidos información del sistema de salud holística en Costa Rica así que pude ayudar en la integración de las hierbas, farmacéuticos, y prácticos energéticos para la salud de la gente.
Actividad 8
Zona Azul con Jorge Vindas
It was a privilege to be joined by National Geographic researcher Jorge Azul to explain his findings on the blue zone of Nicoya, Costa Rica. Through a simple, routine-based active lifestyle, this population is living comfortable beyond 100 years of age, surpassing those with endless access to new medicine and healthcare advancements. This is testament to just how little our bodies need to thrive, and how big of an impact stress and the intensity of our modern lives have on not only our mental but physical health.
