How Moving to Puerto Rico Will Jumpstart My Wellness Journey
When I moved to Puerto Rico eight months ago, I had every intention of soaking up the sunshine, eating fresh tropical foods, and walking the scenic trails daily. But like many of us, life got busy, routines got in the way, and my health and wellness took a back seat.
Now, as I look around at the year-round sunshine, the abundance of fresh produce, and the calm rhythm of island life, I realize Puerto Rico is giving me the perfect opportunity to reset and restart my health journey.
If you’ve ever thought about starting fresh in a tropical setting—or simply want to bring some of that island lifestyle into your home—you’ll love the following lessons.
Why Puerto Rico Is the Perfect Place for a Wellness Reset
The Weather – No excuses! With sunshine nearly every day, outdoor movement becomes second nature. Walks on the beach, hikes through El Yunque, or even early morning yoga in Old San Juan feel easier and more natural. Walking, hiking, swimming, and yoga on the beach are accessible every day, making it easier to establish consistent fitness routines.
The Food – Local fresh fruits and vegetables, local coffee beans and international award winning chocolate (75% or higher cacao) make healthy eating exciting. I’ve learned to embrace plant-based meals using what grows around me. Access to farm-to-table ingredients supports a clean, nutrient-rich diet and encourages healthy cooking habits.
The Scenery – Nature here isn’t just beautiful here—it’s healing. The sound of waves, chirping coquí frogs at night, and lush greenery all support mindfulness and lower stress. Simply being near water or in lush greenery reduces stress hormones, improves mood, and promotes mental clarity.
Vibrant Wellness Culture - Puerto Rico has a growing community focused on exercise (walking tours are abundant), eco-tourism, holistic health, and wellness retreats. With a ton of opportunities to join local classes, workshops, and wellness communities make it easier to stay motivated and inspired.
Slower, Island Pace for Mindful Living
The island lifestyle encourages slower, intentional living — a stark contrast to urban hustle I know all too well. Daily routines naturally incorporate time outdoors, cooking at home, and connecting with nature, supporting a sustainable wellness reset.
I hope that I get to the point in my wellness journey to be able to combine all five elements — exercise, fresh nutrition, mindfulness, social support, and intentional living. Because Puerto Rico then becomes not just my new home destination, but a transformative environment for long-term health and wellness.
My First Steps Toward a Healthier Me
Instead of jumping into an extreme routine, my focus will be on small but powerful changes. Some of these are more about being consistent and doing them everyday than changes. Being focused with these daily will be a huge accomplishment in themselves.
Morning Movement: Stretching, yoga or running around with my chickens before 9 am.
Walking More: Exploring my neighborhood and the coastline.
Hydration: Drinking more water thanks to always having my reusable water bottle nearby and my new Fridgaider ice maker.
Mindfulness: Spending at least 15 minutes to myself without distractions.
Amazon Wellness Essentials
Of course, no wellness reboot would be complete without a few trusty sidekicks—and lucky for me, Amazon has me covered like my new UV-protective workout top. I’ve been blending up tropical goodness in my Ninja smoothie blender, tossing in a scoop of collagen powder for glowing skin and a little creatine for strength gains. For workouts, my new 15 lb kettlebell is already proving that homesteading isn’t the only way to build muscle. And because hydration is basically a wellness love language, I treated myself to a Frigidaire ice maker—because let’s be honest, crushed ice in a glass of sparkling water just feels fancier. Top it off with a cute new workout outfit, and suddenly, my health reset is looking like a tropical chic makeover.
Moving to Puerto Rico is going to give me the jumpstart I need, but you don’t need to live on a tropical island to embrace a healthier lifestyle. By incorporating mindful movement, nourishing foods, and a few wellness essentials, you can create your own version of this island-inspired reset.
Here’s to a healthier, happier us!!!—wherever you are!
