Smile While You Paddle: Balancing Business and Environmental Care

In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, Andrew interviews Travis, the owner of Bodhi Surf & Yoga Camp in Costa Rica. They discuss the importance of sustainable tourism and how Travis incorporates environmental considerations and learning about the local community into his business model. Travis shares his philosophy of giving back to Mother Ocean and emphasizes the need to give more than we take. This insightful conversation highlights the intersection of business and environmental responsibility in the tourism industry.

Connect with Bodhi Surf & Yoga:
Website: https://www.bodhisurfyoga.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bodhisurfschool
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodhisurfyoga/
Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/Hotel_Review-g635755-d12272637-Reviews-Bodhi_Surf_Yoga_Camp-Uvita_Province_of_Puntarenas.html

The podcast episode delves into the significance of giving and receiving, particularly in relation to the ocean and nature. The host and guest engage in a discussion about how humans often take from the ocean and nature without giving back, emphasizing the need for a shift in mindset towards greater giving. They highlight the ocean's continuous generosity, providing us with smiles, tears, oxygen, and food, among other things. The episode stresses the importance of humans reciprocating this generosity by appreciating and protecting the ocean and nature.

Additionally, the episode touches on the concept of generosity within their surfing curriculum, where surfers are taught not only the skills and knowledge to surf safely but also the importance of giving back to the ocean and the community. Furthermore, the episode briefly mentions the significance of incorporating the principles and values of yoga into one's life beyond just physical exercise, taking the practice off the mat. Overall, the episode underscores the importance of giving and receiving in maintaining a harmonious relationship with the ocean and nature.

In the episode, the hosts explore the deeper philosophy of yoga, going beyond its physical exercise aspect that is often marketed and sold in the Western world. They emphasize the importance of understanding the values and principles of the eight limbs of yoga and applying them to one's life beyond the mat. The hosts note that their approach to yoga differs from many resorts in Costa Rica, where yoga teachers are typically foreigners.

However, they consider themselves fortunate as the wife, a Costa Rican native and yoga teacher, has traveled extensively to learn about yoga philosophy. This allows her to infuse a unique Costa Rican spirit and touch into the yoga practice, creating a deeper and more authentic experience. The hosts also highlight how yoga sessions foster a sense of connection and community among participants, enabling them to feel more connected to those around them. Overall, the hosts emphasize the importance of embracing the deeper philosophy of yoga and integrating it into one's life beyond the physical aspect.

The episode emphasizes the transformative power of yoga in cultivating connections and a sense of community among individuals. The speaker notes that while traveling to a foreign country may not involve interacting with many people, practicing yoga together can create a strong bond and a feeling of connection. The speaker personally feels more connected to those they have practiced yoga with, attributing this sense of connection to the adrenaline rush and positive feelings experienced during and after a yoga session.

Furthermore, the episode highlights the benefits of practicing yoga in a beautiful location like Costa Rica. The speaker describes it as an incredible way to experience life for a week or two. The serene environment of such a scenic place, combined with the practice of yoga, enhances the overall experience. The speaker also emphasizes that their wife, a yoga teacher, possesses a deep understanding of yoga philosophy and incorporates her Costa Rican spirit and touch into her teachings. This unique blend of yoga philosophy and the tropical setting of Costa Rica offers participants a more immersive and enriching experience.