Gratitude – not a thing to chase, just a thing to notice
Tula Vida gratitude practice As many of you know, we have a regular practice at meal times of each saying 1 thing we are grateful for. It encourages us to focus on the good things during the day (training the brain) and also share with each other our personal highlights or things that have touched […]
How horses help us heal from bad experiences
There’s something about being near a horse that softens the noise inside us. Their calm presence, steady breath, and deep, intelligent eyes seem to reach into places we can’t quite name. Many of us carry invisible burdens, such as memories that still hurt, the exhaustion of always being strong, or emotions we don’t understand yet. […]
How do you know when you’re fully present?
We often talk about mindfulness, about “being in the moment,” as if it’s something we can simply switch on. Perhaps many of us are “planning” to do more of it in 2026. We thought we would share a longer reflection this week on what we really mean by all this jargon. What does it mean […]
Looking ahead to 2026 — intentions & growth
As we step toward a new year, we wanted to share a little of what’s been unfolding here — and where we’re heading next. Our intention for 2026 is simple: to really soak in the goodness of this place — the land, the horses, the quiet moments, the laughter — and let it refill the […]
One nervous system at a time
How is your limbo week going? How is social media affecting it? In our little nature sanctuary here in Costa Rica, we’re lucky to be removed from much of the world news, social media, and divided public opinion on the latest “big thing.” I say lucky because—even with my limited exposure—I (Sally) notice how much […]
Merry Christmas from Tula Vida — and a gentle look back at 2025
At this time of year, we love pausing for a moment to look back. Not in a big “New Year’s resolution” way — more like a soft check-in. What stretched us? What surprised us? What made us smile? Sometimes we forget all the things that have happened – naming just one challenge and one highlight […]
Why horses are masters of presence and connection
Being around a horse feels like stepping into a world where time slows down. Their quiet majesty and steady heartbeat draw you into the present moment, creating space for calm, connection, and reflection. It’s no wonder so many horse lovers say time with horses reduces their stress and boosts their overall sense of wellbeing—and research […]
Do I want ChatGPT to like me?
Sally here. I’ve been doing a bit of wrestling with myself lately about how I interact with ChatGPT—or whatever AI platform you happen to be using. When I ask it for something, I usually write please. When it gives me something that isn’t quite what I asked for, I feel unreasonably annoyed. After all, in my […]
Why a Nature Retreat feels so different from a vacation
Sometimes you really need a break from the usual routines—the never-ending to-do list, the life admin. Not just a weekend off, but a real pause, where your mind can slow down and your body can finally feel better. A traditional vacation can be lovely, of course—but a retreat in nature feels… different. It has a […]
The healing power of micro-movements — in the body and the soul (part 2)
Rebuilding what we neglect Sometimes I confess that I (Sally) let my yoga practice go. I don’t work on my core strength. I sit at my desk for hours without stretching or checking in with my body. I’m “too busy” — there are always more urgent things to do. And then, one day, something gives […]