January 2022
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*Facing the Future
2021 h o w l e r m a g . c o m
*Drive on the Wild Side: The Osa Peninsula from Charcarita to Carate
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EDITORIAL
FACING THE FUTURE As you will see, things are going to be better.
A
s we leave 2021 and go into the brighter — yet unknown — future of 2022, it is a good thing to reflect back over this past year. Many of us have had losses and setbacks, both personally and in business. The world keeps turning, and as in playing cards, we are all dealt a hand and need to play it out. Facing the future with plans and a clear purpose is a must. All of us have been touched by the events of the past two years, and it either makes you stronger or you can fold.
I encourage you to lift your head up, face what has been dealt and play your hand. Unlike a game of poker, there are many resources to help you through this and reveal a brighter future.
Friends, family and wherever you receive spiritual guidance, as well as medical professionals, are great resources. None of us has to feel that we are alone in the crazy journey. We have hit a bottom, and as you will see, things are going to be better. If we have survived this, we are strong enough to face almost anything. The world keeps turning and it is a wonderful place, even though marred with the scars of mankind. As the world turns, I, personally, am excited for the next phase and preparing to embrace new and innovative changes. Our new partnerships are coordinating their resources, and Howler Media is poised to make amazing moves in 2022.
If you think Howler is just a magazine, we have news for you. Our media company, Howler Media Holdings Inc., has many facets. New paths have opened up for us at Howler Media. Our board of directors, and the guidance and resources we rely on, will be instrumental in the successes to be gained. We are expanding our footprint and taking on new media outside of the region we are traditionally associated with. Over this past year, Howler International has been received by the world audience and has increased our visibility to more markets. It is easier for me to make a list of countries that we don’t have engagements with than those that we do. We will be expanding this and growing that audience. Pulling away from print was like seeing your kid drive off in your car for the first time. I always felt that the need for print was so important. I have now realized a few things about the ever-changing world of supply chains and the lack of paper supplies at a reasonable cost. That, and seeing the numbers of people who engage with our digital magazine, has changed my mind.
The reach and audience that you get from digital media, as opposed to print, is so much more extensive. In the age of electronic media, the number of people touched is quantifiable and has given our supporting advertisers a reach outside their local region. We are excited moving forward, and we value our readers and advertisers that have made this possible. It is not just slapping a bunch of ads on a page in hopes that someone will see it. We thoughtfully place and promote. Don’t look back; move to the opportunities and adventures that await you. Have a blessed 2022.
John B. Quam
HOWLER T r o o p
H
FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR
appy New Year to Howler readers around the world! Leading the way into 2022, our road trip series continues with January’s cover story taking you for a ride on the wild side. We hope it motivates you to explore Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula before the face of this exotic wonderland — home to one of the last coastal tropical rainforests on earth — is transformed forever.
This month’s artist’s spotlight is on Susan Adams, whose paintings capture the essence of Costa Rica’s sea, sky and soul from her unique storytelling perspective. That makes it our pleasure to feature one of Howler’s most prolific longstanding contributors, Charlene Golojuch of Hidden Garden Art Gallery in Guanacaste.
Another travel tale chronicles one adventurer’s roundabout border crossing experience from Panama to Costa Rica. The promise of regenerative agriculture is discussed in our eco-feature about a local food production and marketing success story in Tempate, Guanacaste. We also share highlights of a recent conversation with Christian MarinMüller, a scientist and leading media spokesperson striving to ensure Costa Ricans are fully and accurately informed about current pandemic news.
Another highlight of Charlene’s life here and work at the gallery is the extraordinary chance to meet both international travelers and local residents. ”Learning about them, hearing their stories … it’s all a marvelous experience.”
“Working with so many talented artists has been a fantastic opportunity and brought much joy to my life,” Charlene told us. “Meeting each one of them and getting to know their stories and background enables us to share their visions with not just Costa Rica, but with the world!”
HOWLER
January 2022 Vol. 31 No. 1
PUBLISHER / EDITOR-in-CHIEF John B. Quam e x e c u t i v e d i r e c t o r - Terry Carlile
WRITERS Joanna Blanco. Integrative nutritional health coach who helps clients embrace wellness in five interconnected areas of life: relationships, livelihood, physical activity, spiritual awareness and diet.
executive vice president editorial - Turner Mojica account executive Mary Fernández
Nick Dauk. Writer, rocker and traveler based in Orlando, Florida, seeking out stories from every corner of the globe. Nick.Dauk@ yahoo.com
E d i t o r i a l S ta f f Debbie Bride - Editorial Coordinator Laurie Quam - Copy Editor
Ivan Granados. Managing Partner at GM Attorneys, specializing in real estate and corporate law. igranados@gmattorneyscr.com
H OW L E R ( ™ ) 2 0 1 7
Laura Méndez. Founder of Pura Vida Vibrations. Offering sound journeys, breathwork experiences, cacao ceremonies & other activities. hello@puravidavibrations.com Turner Mojica. Chief Marketing Officer/Senior Vice President of Howler Media Holdings. International management consultant who has worked with Oscar and Grammy nominated producers, award winning directors and celebrities. Rick Philps. He has practiced law in this country since 2003, in the areas of real estate and development; corporate, commercial and contract law; escrow and banking; wills and estate planning; and immigration. Contact rick@costaricacanadalaw.com or visit www.costaricacanadalaw.com John Quam. Publisher / Editor-in-Chief of Howler Media Holdings. Tom Schultz. BS Biology and Geology, avid birder and nature photographer, retired software executive. tom@pananima.com
C o n ta c t
John Quam - Managing Partner headmonkey@howlermag.com Editor: editor@howlermag.com Advertising: terry@howlermag.com Design: design@howlermag.com CR Office: (506) 4701-5942 Howler Magazine Costa Rica @howlercostarica @thehowlermag @howlermagazine The Howler Gold Coast CR S.A. Ced. Juridica: 3-101-725213 The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors in this publication do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Howler organization or its advertisers. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests write to: info@howlermag.com. The Howler Magazine does not assume responsibility for the content of its advertisements. Images not credited are acquired from stock photography services.
Copyright © 2021 The Howler Gold Coast CR S.A. Copyright © 2021 Howler Media Holding, Inc. Panama The Howler Gold Coast CR S.A.
Read all current and past articles online howlermag.com #S earch F ind Howl
Ced. Juridica: 3-101-725213 HOWLER (TM)2021
COVER STORY A Drive on the Wild Side: The Osa Peninsula from Charcarita to Carate Facing the Future 2021 In Review
TRAVEL & ADVENTURES
ON OUR WAY PAST THE BORDER
PURA VIDA/LIVING CR MINDFULLNESS: Time To Declutter WELLNESS FEATURE: Viral Social Media Posts Combat Virus Misinformation ECO-FEATURE: Regenerate Costa Rica
ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: Sea, Sky and Soul
SURFING CR SURFING VIDEOS FEATURE TIDE CHART
REAL ESTATE
FINANCING YOUR PROPERTY IN COSTA RICA FIND YOUR DREAM HOME TODAY GUANACASTE LUXURY PROPERITIES ATTRACT VISITORS AND LUXURY HOME BUYERS LEAVING THE OFFICE TO PURSUE YOUR DREAMS
CR BIZ DOING BUSINESS RIGHT: Purchasing Pre-Construction (Pre-Sales) Properties in Costa Rica LEGALEASE: Mandatory Registration of Rental Properties For Non-Traditional Tourist ENTREPRENEUR CR: Perfect Harmony in 2022
UP FRONT
A Drive on the Wild Side:
The Osa Peninsula from
Charcarita To Carate
King Louis Waterfall in Matapalo
On the Road Again in Costa Rica
Story and photos by Tom Schultz
COVER STORY
I
f you want to experience the real Costa Rica — the Costa Rica many of us fell in love with decades ago … the wild and wonderful Costa Rica — do this drive! Do it sooner rather than later, since the times are changing and this trip will never be the same in another few years.
A crested owl on the coastal trail near the La Sirena Station
Continuing Howler’s On the Road Again series, you will be driving the Osa Peninsula — THE last great wild place left, especially along the coasts. Osa, home of Corcovado and Piedras Blancas National Parks, is also home to 3% of the total biodiversity on the planet, and home to one of the last existing coastal tropical rainforests. The starting point is Charcarita, a totally nondescript truckstop of a town. But it’s the start of route 245, which we take the entire way (mainly because it is the only road) to Carate. You can drive this in one day and stay in Carate, but this trip is better savored over two or even three days. Capuchin, along with howler and spider monkeys, are easily seen in Cabo Matapalo, the Osa Peninsula’s southernmost point.
Bridge stop Driving from Chacarita, you cross through Piedras Blancas National Park to your left, a lesser known Osa national park featured in Howler’s June 2019 issue. The first stop is Rincón De Osa. There are a couple of beautiful beaches nearby to visit, and a few typical beachfront restaurants, but the reason to stop is the bridge. The Rincón bridge is important for two reasons: the Cruze de Bahía Drake and the snowy cotinga. Yes, there is a road that crosses the top of the Osa. It’s not for the weak, and not on our itinerary, but an advanced version of the trip could include crossing to Drake Bay. The other reason to stop, especially if you are interested in birds, is that this bridge is an internationally known stop for birders looking for the rare and endangered snowy cotinga, a little white bird. You may encounter tripod- and binocular-laden groups standing around the bridge area as you pass.
Scarlet macaws are frequent visitors during Osa road trips.
Martina’s is an iconic Matapalo attraction, especially during the Friday night market.
UP FRONT Our next stop is Puerto Jiménez, which we reach after passing endless rice fields on one side and mangrove swamps on the other. If you see the sign, you can drive to La Tigra, the least known entrance to the Corcovado National Park, and known more for its illegal gold miners that still exist working digging pits or panning the streams.
COVER STORY
Yes, there is a road that crosses the top of the Osa. It’s not for the weak, and not on our itinerary.
Local options Puerto Jiménez is the social, economic and tourist center of this side of the Osa Peninsula. You can find lots of options for food, drink and lodging. There’s also a dock where you can get a water taxi to Golfito, an option many tourists take to visit the peninsula. At the end of town there is a supermarket, where you turn right then left. Stop at the market and get what you need, because it gets fun from here. As you head out of Jiménez, you will notice the people start to disappear. Then the pavement stops, and then something else — no power lines. Welcome to the last great wild area of Costa Rica; those who live here generate their own power.
With no roads in the park, these oxcarts are still used to provision eco-lodges and park stations in Corcovado National Park.
! W NO
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2021
A world.
What a year!
mid all the uncertainities, fears, media madness and chaos. Howler never stopped publishing Costa Rica to the
We experienced tremendous growth from 30,000 online readers in January to over 400,000 in December. Howler continues to provide a wide variety of informative articles, photography and videos showcasing Costa Rica to a seeking audience.
From those researching retirement locations, to the travelers and vacationing sojourners, Howler remains committed to providing the highest-quality media platform. Click on the magazine covers to explore what’s inside our e-magazines over the past year. We included a few keywords from each edition. We appreciate our advertising partners and faithful readers. Thank you for sharing to your family, friends and social media.
JANUARY • • • • • • • • •
Sportfishing Yachting San Lucas Island Humpback whales Rip currents Papagayo winds Witch’s Rock suring Fatiniza musical artist Sand fleas
FEBRUARY • • • • • •
All things coffee Nauyaca waterfall Finches in Costa Rica Artist Allan Murillo Park changers Feeling good from the inside out
MARCH • National parks: Tenorio Volcano, Cahuita, Rincon de la Vieja, Manuel Antonio, La Cangreja • Coatis • ProParques • Catching the perfect wave
APRIL • • • • •
All about real estate Cuckoos in Costa Rica Creating peace Digital nomads Becoming unstuckable
MAY • • • • • • • • •
Howler celebrates 25 years of publishing! Gyrocopter girl Entangled sea turtles Tamarindo surfing Guatil, the real deal What is Höwler? (band) Ustrasana yoga Real estate Staying one step ahead
JUNE • • • • • • • • • •
Museums of Costa Rica El Farallón petroglyphs Osa Peninsula Spiders and rattlers A French real estate agent’s story Medical tourism New you resolution The legal system Buying real estate Global wellness day
JULY • • • • • • • • •
Endless summer, endless surf spots Road trip: Sarapiqui’ Mobula rays Skimboarding Death and dying in Costa Rica Anatomy of a dream home Water availability when building Rental property laws Vacation game plans
AUGUST • • • • • • • • • •
Beautiful birds of Costa Rica Caño Negro glistens in the rainy season Two surfers in the Olympics Breaking the 100 age mark Art of Fernán Salazar Got organic matter? Ginger’s health benefits Paradise found New law on relocation Reset your mindset
SEPTEMBER • • • • • • • • • • •
Celebrating Costa Rica’s 200th anniversary Sloth becomes official national symbol Finca 6 and the mysterious spheres Guayabo history Butterflies Surfing and yoga Sweat lodge ritual Beyond yoga Happiest country on the planet Squatters’ rights Building inner resilience
OCTOBER • Featuring 17 of the best photographers in Costa Rica • Over 50 dynamic photographic artwork • Sweat lodge ritual • Can a foreigner purchase beachfront properties? • Breast care awareness • Digital nomads welcomed
NOVEMBER • • • • • • • • • •
Nicaragua, our neighbor to the north Road trip: Central Valley to Santa Teresa Traveling tips Expat birds that stay here SoulGives and a coffee legacy Welcome to Eduard Müller Shrimp farming Luxury living International trade show highlights Harmonizing your objectives
DECEMBER • • • • • • • •
Leonardo DiCaprio Road trip: Cartago through the Orosi Valley SoulGives and pottery Karina Diaz and Costa Rica Fashion Week Living our own epiphanies Serving coffee to pimps Mirian Vilela opening global gates Condo living in Costa Rica
Purchase the photos only special edition:
RAVEL & ADVENTURE
Our Own Way Past the Border
Vacation a Destination, Travel an Act
by Nick Dauk
R FEATURED ADVENTURE
ain assaulted us as we waited for the ferry to Almirante.
It wasn’t even a half-mile to the docks but already we were soaked to the bones from a heavy morning storm. Dark skies reigned over our heads as a meek sun tried to create something resembling 8 a.m. Closing down Loco Dave’s Bookstore Bar only a few short hours ago left me a little worse for wear, but with Poe and Hemingway staring me down from their painted places on the wall, I couldn’t think of a greater disservice to these literary legends than to close the book before the ink dried.
The author's story ends with the San José destination in closer reach from Irazu Volcano vicinity.
Alas, there I stood on the docks of Bocas Town, Panama, soaked inside and out, ill-equipped to embark on a long journey to San José, Costa Rica. Travel is painful Three days earlier, an unforgiving seat assignment behind the driver forced my knees and backpack against my chest. Pedal to the floor, we tore through the jungle, trees whipping the windows on either side as we sped farther away from Panama City. An overnight journey of 600 kilometers meant sleeping in 10-minute intervals with our neck muscles contorted like balloon animals and compressing our skeletons into compact shapes nearly the size of our own bags.
We would venture across the border with seldom more than our wit and our will.
TRAVEL & ADVENTURE Twelve hours later, we limped off of the bus. A quick, cramped taxi took us from Almirante to the docks. A bumpy boat ride followed, then finally, a rising sun welcomed us to Bocas Town. A hostel bed invited us to relax and recoup, but adventure rarely waits for anyone. No sooner had we dropped our bags than we hopped on another boat and ventured out to explore Bocas del Toro — aches and exhaustion be damned. Travel is uncertain
FEATURED ADVENTURE
Two nights in Bocas Town was enough of a reprieve to accept the challenge of another long travel day — or so we thought. Our backpacks were waterlogged before the ferry left for Almirante. Waves slapped the hull with rebellion as the booze in our bellies did the same. Our arrival on the mainland came with a tempting opportunity: worry-free transport straight to San José.
While a wise and weary traveler may have jumped at the chance to trade uncertainty for convenience, comfort and clarity, my companion and I made the decision long before we reached this crossroads that we would venture across the border with seldom more than our wit and our will. No pre-booked shuttles. No planned route. No taking the easy way out. We were headed to San José the hard way. We rejected the offer and wandered farther into the storm, unsure if we were headed in the right direction until we hit the bus station a mile later. We raced through the first transfer at Changuinola, our shouts of, “Frontera? Frontera?” echoed with “Guabito! Sixaola!” by street vendors and bystanders. Leaping onto a random bus as it pulled out into the street, we were relieved when it reached the border.
This abandoned railway bridge marks the river border crossing between Guabito, Panama and Sixaola, Costa Rica.
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ARTS CULTURE ENTERTAINMENT
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT
Sea, Sky and Soul
“Reflections” is part of the artist’s new includes the work in progress pictured a Tunnel,” as well as “Crash into
w “Waves” collection, which at right, “Light at the End of the o Me” (see next page).
Through The Eyes of Artist, Susan Adams
W
ith glimpses and impressions of reality, artist Susan Adams captures the essence of Costa Rica, creating poignant and dramatic scenes for viewers to enjoy. Letting them see the country through her eyes is what drives the artist’s relentless zeal for putting her brush on the canvas. “The fabulous panoramas, wildlife and the gorgeous unimaginable colors, and the people with their unique culture and traditions, gives me endless energy,” she tells us. “If I can spread a little light or uplift someone’s spirit, then I am pleased.”
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT
ARTS CULTURE ENTERTAINMENT
“Jaguar at the Hat Shop”
“Crash Into Me”
Stories that are deeply meaningful to Adams are the inspiration behind her paintings. In her recent series, “Waves,” Susan connects the feeling of her time on the Gulf of Mexico with the Pacific Ocean coast near Tamarindo, where she has lived for more than 25 years. Amazed at how the vivid details of the water’s features and colors are so different — depending on the time of day — and how the surfaces change with the weather, wind and seasons, Adams paints her waves just like she would a portrait.
“The Rescue”
“Principe del Pampa”
First making her palette with rows of different shades of blues and greens, she begins her painting ritual. She starts with a red mark in the center of her canvas and begins to line up one area after the next. She finishes, while continuing her quest for the perfect wave, with theperfect light and texture.
Wildlife Inspiration After moving to her Tamarindo area home, Adams suddenly began to see a few macaws flying overhead.
“We’re Back”
“I thought I must be crazy!” she recalls. “But after doing some quick research, I learned that there is a program in Pinilla and in another area of Guanacaste that is reintroducing them to this area, so “We’re Back” was created in honor of these majestic birds.” During a trip to Savannah, Georgia, Susan was passing by numerous gift stores, dressmakers and millinery shops. Catching her eye was the window display of a hat shop. Loving all of the fabulous designs, Susan quickly became distressed when she saw the jaguar fur hat. “Jaguar at the Hat Shop,” shows the large cat coming for his revenge!
Adams’ techniques include stucco, gesso, acrylics, metallic paints and oils, and her images come to life on canvases and banana papers, among others. She was first featured in a January 2019 Howler article. You can see Susan’s permanent exhibit at the Hidden Garden Art Gallery, located five kilometers. west of the Daniel Oduber International Airport. Contact: info@HiddenGardenArt.com Visit: www.HiddenGardenArt.com
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REAL ESTATE
Financing Your Property in Costa Rica What Are Your Options?
Y
REAL ESTATE FEATURE
ou will see all kinds of information on the internet about financing property in Costa Rica. Many websites tell you that they have financing options available through the national or local banks. We have been selling real estate in Costa Rica since 2003 and only a handful of my clients have been able to obtain a loan with a Costa Rican bank. It’s not that you can’t get a loan. It’s that most foreigners, after reviewing all the documentation required and the costs involved, don’t take the loan. First off, it is very difficult to qualify for a loan if you are not a permanent resident of this country. The paperwork is mind-boggling and the banks do not operate with the efficiency that you are used to in the U.S. or Canada. It can take months for an atnswer, which usually winds up being “no” anyway. Second, the fees are very high; usually, 3 to 5 % higher than a traditional loan in North America. And the closing costs are as much as 3% of the loan, on top of the normal closing costs. Loans hard to come by So, when most buyers see the hurdles and the numbers, they change their minds and search for an alternate way to purchase their little piece of paradise. One of the reasons Costa Rica is so stable is because its financial institutions don’t lend money very easily and are very conservative when they do. We all
know that the problem with the subprime mortgage fiasco in the U.S. was the banks’ poor lending practices. In the history of Costa Rica, not one single bank has ever failed. That is an amazing statistic! It’s because they don’t frivolously lend money, and they almost never lend money to foreigners. The people who own property in Costa Rica tend to be financially stable individuals because they usually had to pay cash for their property. That’s one of the reasons why we don’t see wide-scale foreclosures and very little slide in property values when the market takes a turn. So how can I buy in Costa Rica, if I don’t have all the cash you ask? There are a few options for financing a home in Costa Rica. Let’s explore them here for a moment. There are select developers who offer house financing, so if you are buying directly from the developer itself this could be a good option. As with any property, it is important to verify the developer’s financial stability and the quality of its product. This, of course, is something your real estate agent can advise you about as not all developer properties are what is advertised on the internet. So do your due diligence and always work with a reputable licensed real estate agent and a first-class law firm. Don’t ever buy directly from the developer and don’t use the developer’s attorney.
“In the history of Costa Rica, not one single bank has ever failed.”
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Day
High
Low
High
Low
Sat 01
00:46 9.27 ft
07:07 0.16 ft
13:24 8.36 ft
19:20 0.61 ft
Sun 02
01:42 9.63 ft
08:02 −0.30 ft
14:20 8.86 ft
20:18 0.26 ft
Mon 03
02:37 9.90 ft
08:55 −0.66 ft
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Tue 04
03:30 10.02 ft
09:46 −0.86 ft
16:06 9.57 ft
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Wed 05
04:22 9.95 ft
10:36 −0.87 ft
16:57 9.68 ft
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Thu 06
05:13 9.68 ft
11:26 −0.68 ft
17:47 9.61 ft
23:52 0.14 ft
Fri 07
06:05 9.25 ft
12:14 −0.30 ft
18:38 9.36 ft
Sat 08
00:45 0.49 ft
06:56 8.69 ft
13:03 0.21 ft
19:29 9.00 ft
Sun 09
01:39 0.91 ft
07:50 8.08 ft
13:53 0.79 ft
20:22 8.58 ft
Mon 10
02:34 1.32 ft
08:46 7.51 ft
14:46 1.36 ft
21:16 8.18 ft
Tue 11
03:33 1.65 ft
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15:41 1.85 ft
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Wed 12
04:34 1.83 ft
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High
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11:49 6.73 ft
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Fri 14
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Sat 15
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Mon 17
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Tue 18
03:05 8.46 ft
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Wed 19
03:44 8.61 ft
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Thu 20
04:22 8.67 ft
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Fri 21
05:00 8.63 ft
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17:28 8.69 ft
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Sat 22
05:38 8.49 ft
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Sun 23
00:08 0.73 ft
06:18 8.26 ft
12:21 0.43 ft
18:43 8.73 ft
Mon 24
00:50 0.79 ft
07:00 7.97 ft
13:01 0.64 ft
19:26 8.65 ft
Tue 25
01:37 0.92 ft
07:47 7.65 ft
13:46 0.89 ft
20:14 8.52 ft
Wed 26
02:30 1.07 ft
08:41 7.36 ft
14:39 1.16 ft
21:10 8.39 ft
Thu 27
03:30 1.17 ft
09:45 7.17 ft
15:40 1.37 ft
22:14 8.32 ft
Fri 28
04:36 1.13 ft
10:55 7.19 ft
16:50 1.43 ft
23:22 8.41 ft
Sat 29
05:46 0.90 ft
12:06 7.49 ft
18:01 1.25 ft
Sun 30
00:29 8.66 ft
06:51 0.49 ft
13:11 8.00 ft
19:09 0.88 ft
Mon 31
01:31 9.02 ft
07:50 −0.01 ft
14:10 8.60 ft
20:10 0.41 ft
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PURA VIDA / LIVING CR
TIMETO
by Laura Méndez
DECLUTTER
O R DE R I N O U R HO M E RES TO R E S HE ALTH AND ORDE R IN OUR LIF E
O
ne of the best things we can do at the end or beginning of each year, with the greatest positive impact on our health, is to declutter our home. Ideally, we make a plan and start from the easiest places to declutter, moving on from there one by one to the most challenging locations. My suggestion for this month is that you create time during your week to commit to this activity. Slowly you will not only notice a big change in the energy of your house but also in the harmony between family members.
WELLNESS
Household “toxins” may include: 1. Objects you no longer use 2. Clothes that you don’t like, haven’t worn for a long time or don’t fit 3. Ugly things 4. Things that are broken or cracked 5. Old letters, notes, stuffed animals and gifts from exes 6. Dead or diseased plants
7. Old receipts, documents, newspapers and magazines 8. Expired medicine / remedies 9. Old socks with holes or stains 10. Old underwear with holes or stains 11. Worn shoes 12. Gadgets of all kinds that call you to the past 13. Old memories from weddings, baby showers, etc. 14. Photos of dead people 15. Ashes of a dead family member 16. Ceramic or glass ornaments that came as a pair; if one is damaged you get rid of both, otherwise it represents loneliness It is interesting to understand the energetic influence of clutter in our lives: • In the basement and roof, this stuff becomes an overload • At the entrance, it restricts the flow of life • Stacked on the floor, it pulls us down • Above us, it is our headaches • On the bed, it pollutes sleep • Spread around the house, it gorges on life, and represents an overload of emotions
Direct benefits of decluttering your house: • • • • • •
Health improves Creativity grows Relationships improve Greater capacity for reasoning Lightness in spirit and humor Abundance and fortune have a better flow into your life
Questions to help me release old stuff: • Why am I keeping that? • Does it have to do with me today? • What will it feel like to release that? It is very important that during this process we can separate and clarify all the stuff so we can donate, sell, gift, recycle or definitely throw away. Consider that everything outside of us is a reflection of our inner state. However, we can work with the material world in order to bring order in our mind. Here are some other important considerations to maintain a harmonious house environment. • • • • • • • •
It is interesting to understand the energetic influence of clutter in our lives.
Avoid loud noises Avoid strong lights Avoid extreme colors Avoid chemical odors Avoid synthetic coatings Avoid anything that brings back sad memories Complete unfinished projects Cultivate positive energy in your home
While you create order in your home, watch the movements happening in yourself. As we clean our physical home, we also put our minds and hearts in order! Don’t get attached to anything. If you start to detach yourself, a tremendous release of energy will happen within you. The energy that was involved in attachment to things now can bring new beginnings for a more harmonious life. Keep me posted on your wins! Connect with me on social media and tell me your story!
PURA VIDA / LIVING CR
Viral Social Media Posts Comba
W
ith the second anniversary of COVID-19’s emergence drawing near, Howler recently reached out to one of Costa Rica’s leading sources of pandemic information over the past 23 months. Dr. Christian Marin-Müller is a founding member of the Scientific Ethics Committee for the Ministry of Health, and a founding member of CRBiomed, the biomedical cluster of Costa Rica. He is also a member of the Aspen Global Leadership Network, the Aspen Institute and the Central American leadership initiative. In addition, he is the Executive Director of Speratum CR. Dr. Marin-Müller’s responses to my questions appear below. How did you find yourself as the reference point for COVID information in Costa Rica?
WELLNESS FEATURE
Yeah, well, it was kind of pure serendipity. I have a doctorate in virology, molecular virology and microbiology from Baylor College of Medicine. And I’ve worked with several different viruses before, but my core focus for the past decade has been on cancer.
And it just so happened [back in February 2020] that I was sitting with my brother. We were watching TV and watching the news. And I had mentioned to him, “You know, I think this virus is gonna get pretty serious. And I think we need to prepare. It’s going to get pretty rough, it’s really contagious.” And, you know, we were sitting there, and he started looking on Twitter. And he sent me a tweet from somebody that had, like, 15,000 followers — a big business person here in Costa Rica. And he was basically saying, “Ignore what the government is telling you; they’re trying to repress you. Don’t listen to them. Go out and hug everybody you love. And let’s, you know, let’s forget this pandemic.” And, I remember I was sitting there, and I said, “Man, it’s terrible, because he’s reaching a lot of people that just don’t know any better. And nobody’s doing a good job at communicating to the public.” And my brother said, “Well, it’d be great if you write a post.”
Photos courtesy of Christian Marin-Müller’
at Virus Misinformation
by Turner Mojica
Scientist MarinMüller’s Mission to Spread Accurate Pandemic News
The more information people have that is correct, the better decisions they’ll make.
PURA VIDA / LIVING CR So I made a post on Twitter, and on Facebook, just kind of explaining to people like, “This is what we’re facing, this is what the virus is, this is the reality. This is what needs to happen over the next year and a half.”
So it kind of became my mission, you know, to try to help as many people as I could. And just always thinking of the fact that the more information people have that is correct, the better decisions they’ll make.
And, you know, the post kind of went viral; lots of people saw it. And somebody from Channel 7 contacted me, one of the reporters and said, “Do you want to come on TV and just kind of explain what’s going on since you did so well in your post?”
How long did that last?
And, you know, nervous as hell, I said, “Well, sure, I’ll go on, and I’ll try to explain the best that I can.” And it turned out that I managed to explain it in a way that a lot of people really connected with and really understood. And so, they kept inviting me back. And at one point, I was sitting there talking to Ignacio Santos on Channel 7. And he said, during a commercial break, “Right now, there’s 500,000 people watching and our rating is skyrocketing. And people are really interested in the way you explain. We need to keep having you back … please don’t stop.”
I mean, I’m still doing them. It was really intense. I think that whole first year, there were some times when everybody wanted me on their news, and everybody wanted me — everywhere. And I thought it was critical at that time, because anything we could do to stop the exponential spread was critical. After a while, I kind of dialed it back a little bit. And I’ve been doing, you know, only the most important things. I just did an interview last week, over the phone. So I still do them.
For COVID-19 information Here’s how to request the QR code
WELLNES FEATURE
In brief, we must fill out a form, provide a sworn statement, and submit a scan of your ID and vaccination card. Everything must be submitted via email to the ministry at notificacionescovid@misalud.go.cr. Once that’s completed, to check your record of vaccination status in the system, you can use this link: https://usuarios.ministeriodesalud.go.cr If that doesn’t work, it may be necessary to appear in person with your ID and vaccination card at the local health ministry office.
PURA VIDA / LIVING CR
Regenerate Costa Rica Eduard Müller’s Passion and Purpose by John Quam
M
any people are familiar with the term “sustainable”. But sustainable is just that — it sustains.
The new movement is regenerative: to grow or be renewed or restored, especially after being damaged or lost. At the forefront of this movement for more than two decades has been Costa Rica’s Dr. Eduard Müller. From his early days as a veterinarian to developing his passion for growth and regrowth, he has had an exciting life. As a doctor, educator and philosopher, he has consistently implemented the practices he espouses, including as Rector of Costa Rica’s renowned University for International Cooperation.
I recently spent an hour interviewing Dr. Müller, and was fascinated hearing about his past and how he is taking charge and changing things for the world. Global quest for solution From 2000 to 2010, he was very much involved at the global level. His travel time in 2010 added up to 302 days, in 49 countries, working with the UN going from Nairobi to Nagoya for the negotiations. And, Müller told me, “It just hit me that sustainability was not the solution.”
Photos courtesy of Eduard Müller
ECO-FEATURE
A successful regenerative agriculture project in Tempate, Guanacaste, has involved local residents in every aspect of growing and marketing their own food
He persisted till 2015, starting the conceptual framework and group for regeneration. “From 2009, we were using the term regeneration,” he explained. “The full transition was in 2015 and 2016. We wrote the strategic plan for the university, focusing on regeneration. And in 2018, we launched Regenerate Costa Rica.” “Did you coin the term regenerate? I asked. In parallel with others? A lot of people are still discussing definitions.” Müller replied, “We have a new, different perspective on regeneration. And I think we are the most advanced application of regeneration right now with our program, Regenerate Costa Rica. Quoting the American philosopher Buckminster Fuller, he added, “If you want to change the system, don't fight it. Build a new one and make the old and obsolete. So that's what we're doing.”
‘We have a new, different perspective on regeneration. And I think we are the most advanced application of regeneration.’
PURA VIDA / LIVING CR Tempate success story Having embarked on a regenerative agriculture project in Tempate, a small Guanacaste town that had been devastated by the effects of the pandemic, Müller saw successful results early on.
ECO-FEATURE
“While implementing the project we first had to address the wellness of the people in the community. We set up a hotline for people in need of psychological assistance early in the pandemic. In March 2021, I heard these two ladies saying that in two months, no one has called the center.”
Müller attributes this outcome to the life-changing sense of purpose the locals in this area have been feeling. He sees regenerative farming as the answer for many small communities that need to create a new economy and survive after the pandemic’s economic devastation. “Looking at the land in Tempate — it was just basic dry land,” he said. “But it was land that had never grown anything that would have contaminated it. It was abandoned land with very brittle soil. And very low fertility.”
Having been told it was impossible to produce food in Guanacaste, Müller set out to show them differently. Ultimately, it proved possible to produce 10 tons of quality organic fruits, vegetables and herbs per month on one hectare of land. “How about that for being told you can’t!” he exclaimed. “Give a person a fishing rod and teach them how to fish. But it's more complex; it's getting them organized.”
REAL ESTATE
YouTube Blow Up of 2022 - Tamarindo Rich
REAL ESTATE FEATURE
Interview by Terry Carlile
“I am lucky, but really there was no luck. It was all by hard work and a relentless focus on fun-fun-fun.”
W
herever you go in Costa Rica, you meet interesting people with incredible stories. I caught up with Richard Lacey who has lived here for 25 years. Richard Lacey, a chartered accountant with CPA credentials, is from Nottingham, England and his story includes escaping the business office setting and making his dream come true in Costa Rica. Richard’s early professional career was spent in England, wearing a shirt and tie while working in an office for blue chip multinationals such as KPMG, Time Warner and Sony Corporation. He quickly realized this life wasn’t for him, and always had an eye on living in a hot country with beautiful beaches and even more beautiful girls.
For the last 25 years Richard has been a serial entrepreneur and property developer in Costa Rica. Photo by Sean Davis
Lacey moved to Costa Rica in 1996 with a U.S. corporation. Located in San Carlos, in the center of the country, he was one of the first white men to live in that area. The reaction of the locals was incredible, he recalls. I really love the Tamarindo Rich YouTube channel, it is a direct way to give visitors real no bullshit information about Costa Rica. He moved to San José in 2000. This coincided with the start of Costa Rica’s electronic music scene, with bars such as Velvet, Café Urbano and Café Loft, and underground scenes like El Pueblo. What brought you to Tamarindo? Tamarindo was an eight-hour trek on terrible roads from San José, via ferry or via Liberia. Back then, it was hard to imagine how it would become the great beach town it is today. Langosta was just greenery and empty beaches, with no houses. Tamarindo was a couple of dirt roads and Liberia airport was not operational.
• What is the purpose of your videos? • Why the “no nonsense” approach? • Future plans?
Around 2010, when Lacey decided on a change of scenery, he moved to Tamarindo to open Coldwell Banker and start the property development business. Over the years it has grown to one of the top-producing Coldwell Banker offices in the country, and one of the largest real estate offices in the area. In 2017, Richard expanded his footprint by opening a Coldwell Banker office in Ibiza, Spain. He now shares his time between Ibiza and Costa Rica, and is contructing several beach houses, while still trying to keep the focus on FUN FUN FUN.
Richard J Lacey
Whatsapp +34653842319
richard@cbtamarindo.com
two most magical locations on the planet.
For more of Richard’s story.
b e a ch f r o n t • KI T CHE NS b r e a k f a s t • P A RKI NG
@thecoasttamarindo PLAYA TAMARINDO
REAL ESTATE
Guanacaste Luxury Properties Attract Visitors & Luxury Home Buyers Purchasing a Luxury Villa Can be Affordable If You Purchase With Partners Sponsored Content
Y
ou will see all kinds of information on the internet about financing property in Costa Rica. Many websites tell you that they have financing options available through the national or local banks. We have been selling real estate in Costa Rica since 2003 and only a handful of my clients have been able to obtain a loan with a Costa Rican bank.
REAL ESTATE FEATURE
A luxury home purchase can be financially achievable. Read how. Guanacaste boasts some of Costa Rica’s best beaches — from those with great waves perfect for surfing to those that are quiet and hidden along the Pacific coast. Part of the appeal of the area is the variety of luxury properties located in Guanacaste: world-class resorts, cozy little bungalows, luxurious villas, and vacation rentals. The best values and locations are in the Coco/Hermosa/Ocotal beach communities, which are only 30 minutes from the international airport in Liberia. Guanacaste luxury properties are located throughout our beach communities. Whether purchasing a luxury villa as a full-
time home, or vacation/second home, buyers associate luxury with things they believe are uniquely positioned to serve their lifestyle, conducive to lavish living, and as a refinement of living rather than a necessity. Purchasing a luxury villa can be affordable if you purchase with partners — family, friends or associates — and the process is not complicated in Costa Rica. You can purchase the villa with a Costa Rica corporation (common for any property purchase) and divide the shares with partners according to the amount they have invested. While the price of a regular home is based on the size, neighboring houses and services, luxury properties have a unique set of criteria. The criteria include location, view orientation, customization and upgrades, upscale amenities, and architectural and interior design. Coldwell Banker Coast to Coast Properties agents are experienced and prepared to leverage the company’s legacy, network and unsurpassed knowledge in assisting clients find their unique home at the best value among Guanacaste luxury
properties. They know that luxury property buyers expect their agent to negotiate the best price for a villa that has exceptional qualities. For help with obtaining one of Guanacaste’s luxury properties in the beach communities of this northwest Pacific province, contact Tony and Anna at (206) 8011773 or 011-506-8485-1469.
Email: tony@coldwellbankercr.com U.S. toll-free number for Coldwell Banker Coast to Coast Properties: 1-877- 589- 0539
SHOPPING ONLINE IN THE USA C ONT A C T S Tamarindo: 8676-2213 • tamarindo@libertyexpress.cr Nosara: 8628-2441 • nosara@libertyexpress.cr Playa Hermosa: 7130-0485 • playahermosa@libertyexpress.cr
AUTHORIZED AGENT
CR BIZ
Purchasing Pre-Construct Properties in Costa Rica by Rick Philps
C
DOING BUSINESS RIGHT
osta Rica is currently experiencing a residential construction boom. Offerings of pre-construction (presales) property purchases by developers are abundant, particularly in the touristoriented beach areas and in the Central Valley, around the Greater Metropolitan Area of San José. Buyers are routinely offered sizable pre-sales price discounts by developers who are eager to use a purchaser’s money to defray the financing costs of completing their real estate projects.
Purchasers do have to consider the additional risks to be incurred when proceeding with a pre-sales real estate purchase. Horror stories are abundant from would-be purchasers entering into such agreements without proper legal advice and documentary protection. Risks for pre-sales property purchases Would-be purchasers are usually first introduced to a pre-sales purchase opportunity in an artist’s depiction of what the proposed development will supposedly look like when completed, as advertised on the developer’s website or
tion (Pre-Sales) What Are the Considerations? Paying the purchase price to the developer
other social media. However, it is wise to ask the developer for client references and a list of other completed projects, in order to view the quality of construction and the developer’s professional and timely performance. It is very important to know that the developer owns, or has irrevocable control over, the land where the project is to be built and that all government licenses and approvals have been obtained to build the proposed project. The pre-sales purchase agreement entered into between the purchaser and developer should be very specific as to what the final product will look like and the building timeframe. It should include declarations by the developer of the quality of materials to be used, with building plans and inventories of fixtures and furnishings, attached as addendums to the purchase agreement.
This, of course, is the single most important factor in such a pre-sales real estate purchase. The question that must be answered is, how can the purchaser’s monies be protected in the payment to the developer for a constructed entity yet to be built? The answer is, all purchase monies, including any deposit amount agreed to be paid by the purchaser to the developer under the purchase agreement, must first be placed in an escrow account of a government-registered escrow company, pursuant to the provisions of an escrow agreement entered into by the purchaser, developer and escrow company. This escrow agreement will govern the dispersal of purchase monies to the developer, as various construction milestones in the project are met by the developer. Before any good faith deposit amount is released from escrow in favor of the developer, the purchaser must have conducted and be satisfied with the legal due diligence for the project.
How can the purchaser’s monies be protected in the payment to the developer for a constructed entity yet to be built?
CR BIZ
Subsequent purchase monies disbursed from escrow will only be made when a specific construction milestone, such as laying the foundation or erecting the walls, have been certified by an independent engineer or architect as having been met, in compliance with both the building plans and quality of the materials agreed to be used. In that manner, the purchaser will be protected for the property value and construction value completed, in relation to the amount of funds advanced to the developer at any given time during the construction process.
My opinion It is clear that the risks to a purchaser involved in purchasing a property from a developer through a pre-sales purchase agreement are significantly greater than purchasing a property in a completed project. However, if a purchaser carefully follows the due diligence steps that I am recommending in this article, with proper legal guidance, there can be a significant financial benefit realized by a purchaser in acquiring a property for a lower purchase price than they would pay for a completed project of a like nature.
DOING BUSINESS RIGHT
The usual hold-back for the final payment of purchase monies to the developer is 10% of the purchase price, until For more information and answers to any irregularities found by the purchaser, your questions on diverse legal topics, on what is commonly referred to as a visit Costa Rica Canada Law: www. punch-list, are corrected within a specified costaricacanadalaw.com time by the developer. Should the original developer default in the completion of the project, remaining funds held in escrow should be sufficient to complete the project as contemplated, utilizing the services of a different developer.
Make Informed Decisions in Costa Rica
!
Be confident that you are buying this and not this
Sampling of what will be covered:
• Residency Requirements and Process • Costa Rica Banking, Income Tax, and Legal systems • Escrow Account Process • Importance of a Costa Rica Will • Choosing a Realtor and Lawyer • Maintaining a Costa Rica corporation...and much more!
LIC. RICK PHILPS, COSTA RICA LAWYER
www.costaricacanadalaw.com Email: rick@costaricacanadalaw.com
At Margaritaville Beach Resort in Flamingo. Seminar attendance is limited to 30 participants and is in compliance with Health Department requirements.
SECOND TUESDAY of
EVERY MONTH
NEXT SEMINAR JANUARY
Tu e s d a y
Legal Due Diligence Seminars
11
2022
9:00 AM
More Information and Reservations
CR BIZ
Mandatory Registration of Rental Properties for Non-Traditional Tourist Accommodations
M
oving to Costa Rica is an exciting time, and the country is very welcoming to foreigners.
As established in the “Law for the Regulation of Non-Traditional Accommodation Through Digital Platforms (N. 20 865),” rental properties in Costa Rica for tourist visits (for example, using Airbnb or Vrbo) must register with the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT). There is a newly launched web platform from the ICT to make this registration easier. Per the Law N. 20 865, the ICT will ensure equal competition between accommodation companies (hotels, resorts, etc.) and individually owned rental properties (condos, rooms, etc.). It also ensures privately owned rental properties will have regulations that protect tourists who choose to rent nontraditional lodging. This law applies to any person or entity that rents to tourists for less than 30 days.
LEGAL EASE
Note that “tourist” applies to nationals or foreigners alike — anyone renting accommodation for travel within the country. The new platform in the ICT website complies with the law allowing digital registration, and has instructions on how to register, complete the form, and all of the requirements. It is designed to regulate the platforms of commercialization companies or intermediaries between users and the service provider.
Law N. 20 865 also requires, in part, that non-traditional lodgings: 1. Have the proper registration and municipal, commercial patent for nontraditional accommodation activity. 2. Register with the General Directorate of Taxation for the payment of taxes. 3. Issue a detailed invoice with the services provided according to the agreed-upon prices. 4. Ensure the safety, comfort, and privacy of the service’s users also guarantee friendly, courteous, and respectful treatment. 5. Not allow discrimination based on race, sex, religion, or other personal or social circumstances. 6. Ensure maintenance and cleanliness of the facilities. Companies that are intermediaries, such as Airbnb, are also required to follow the regulations of Law N. 20 865, including paying the taxes due if the user’s payment is made through the service platform. There are severe penalties for failing to register and follow the law, including being considered an illegal commercial operation and the payment of fines and possible sanctions.
New ICT Web Platform Makes it Easier
by Ivan Granados
Companies who take advantage of the ease of registering online will go to www.ict.go.cr and duly complete the registration form. 1. The ICT will have 10 working days to validate the information in the registration application. 2. Within the 10 days, ICT will issue a resolution of registration via email. This email will also include a user code. The Director of Tourism Management, Gustavo Alvarado, pointed out that, “It is the first time that mandatory registration of companies has been established before the ICT, and it will be easily accessible for the registration of those interested. Likewise, it will provide support and follow-up to what is established by law so that the companies that register comply with the approved regulations and tourists feel more confident when using non-traditional lodging services.” It is interesting to note that surveys conducted at Costa Rica airports by the ICT, pre-pandemic, showed that 9.2% of tourists were using non-traditional or private lodging rentals. It is essential to fully understand the legal implications of renting property to tourists, even if using a platform such as Airbnb or Vrbo. For assistance, we are at your service at info@ gmattorneyscr.com
‘Tourist’ applies to nationals or foreigners alike — anyone renting accommodation for travel within the country.
HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 29
CR BIZ
Perfect Harmony Create a Successful Simultaneous Professional and Personal Plan
by Joanna Blanco
H
appy 2022 beginning to all! Beginnings are the perfect time to look ahead and start making our to-do and purpose list. My mission in this article is to show you a way to create a harmonious and balanced plan that helps you be productive and happy in 2022. Let me share one definition of harmony: the state of being in agreement and concord. I love the word "agreement" in that definition. Why? Because if we create a plan, we need to agree with every part of it so the development can be successful. With the word "agreement" in our mind, let me give you a few steps to start a harmonious 2022. 1. Let's create two goal lists
ENTREPRENEUR CR
One list is for business/professional goals and the other for personal goals. In a notebook or planner, or on a piece of paper, write down everything that comes to your mind that you want to accomplish during 2022. 2. Choose priorities Mark, in each list, those goals that you desire to achieve as soon as possible, and/ or that are more important.
3. Organize your goals by time frame Now that you have recognized your priorities, you can divide each goal list and set short-term and long-term goals. NOTE: It is crucial to keep all of the goals you write, even those you think are impossible to achieve due to time or resources. Goals and objectives are actions or things that we would like in our lives or would like to become, so never underestimate their importance. Please keep the original lists forever so that you can check them from time to time and reorganize your priorities. 4. Create harmony with your professional and personal life Let's take the priority and short-term goals from each of your lists. Analyze the actions and tasks to accomplish each of the goals. Give each task and action a day and time. Here is one example: Professional goal: Start writing a promotional post for posting at noon and 4 p.m. Task: Write four posts in advance Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday 8:30 to 9 a.m. The result is a total of 12 posts per week.
If we create a plan, we need to agree with every part of it. Personal goal: Start fitness training. Task: Wake up Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 5:30 a.m. to go to the gym from 5:45 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. • Place tasks in your schedule by the day(s) and time(s), so you organize them carefully. 5. Keep the balance between your personal and professional tasks: Balance is the key! Remember that you need to stay healthy to be productive and efficient. You need to check that you have the time for the basics: • Sleep: Seven to eight hours. Try to sleep straight through.
• Eat: Balance your intake of vegetables, fruits, protein, and carbs. Eat at least three times per day, + one snack. • Hydrate: Drink water — a minimum of eight glasses per day, more if you work out. • Move your body: If you work in an office, take 10 minutes per hour to move any way possible — walk to fill your water bottle, use the stairs, work standing, etc. • Make time to relax: If you experience stressful situations, take a few deep breaths. Read about something interesting (no social media). Walk in nature, in a park or on a beach. Meditate. You agree to coordinate your basic healthy personal tasks with your professional tasks to create harmony. Keeping this in mind, you will create a good plan to maintain your well-being and productivity.
I wish you a healthy and prosperous 2022!
Contact me any time: joannablanco@vivesattva.com and follow me on Instagram and Facebook
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