Living is one thing, but truly being alive is another. Our time in this world is measured in seconds, and the goal is to fill as many of them as possible with the things that bring us joy. Vail Health embodies this philosophy, and I had the privilege of experiencing it firsthand at their inaugural longevity retreat at Surf Synergy in Jacó, Costa Rica.

Photo courtesy of Surf Synergy

RIDE THE TIDE TO HOLISTIC WELL-BEING

Surf Synergy is centered in the heart of Jacó, where the jungle is lush and the waves are inviting. The all-inclusive resort is a wellness campus, featuring a yoga deck, an infinity pool, a cold plunge, a sauna, a wall-less living room, a strength-training deck, a chic community dining table, ample bodywork opportunities and more.

The surfboard became the foundation of my week-long stay with Vail Health, symbolizing stability — something that looks and feels different for everyone. Just as stepping onto a surfboard requires balance and preparation, each day brings unique challenges shaped by our individual priorities and past experiences. Navigating life’s waves takes practice, and Surf Synergy provides a safe and supportive space to do just that.

We welcomed every morning at 6 a.m. with yoga on the deck overlooking Jacó’s greenery and Pacific oceanfront. The sun salutations opened our hearts and bodies to the day’s gifts, and I am not just talking about the endless supply of hydrating, local coconuts. Following yoga, we migrated to the Casa Cielo, the 11,000-square-foot villa where we had our first meal of the day. I always began breakfast with Surf Synergy’s homemade coconut yogurt and granola, topped with in-season fruit. For the second course, the talented chefs prepared protein-rich dishes, always offering options for dietary restrictions. My favorite was the omelet, made with local eggs and vegetables from the resort garden.

Photo courtesy of Surf Synergy

Depending on the day’s tide, we would either head straight to the beach or spend time preparing for the surf. Dryland preparations alternated each day between Pilates with celebrated physical therapist Alice Baquie, mobility training and/or breathwork. Surf Synergy co-founder and head surf coach Marcel Oliveira led us in diaphragmatic breathing in order to strengthen muscle control, activate our parasympathetic nervous systems and bring more oxygen to our tissues. The passionate wellness practitioner and surfer taught us how to pressurize oxygen molecules into our cells — imperative for time in the ocean.

Oliveria says this work “creates the habit for creating space for working on yourself, taking care of yourself and nurturing yourself.”

By this point in our morning, I would grab a fresh piece of fruit to hydrate and energize me on the way to the beach for a surf. Every guest at Surf Synergy has the privilege to work with a surf coach one-on-one. Morning muscle engagement, organized by Vail Health, and one-on-one training surf coaching from Surf Synergy set each and every guest up for success and confidence.

After our two-hour surf, we all returned to Casa Cielo for lunch. Each day, without fail, the food was hot and ready. These meals were seafood heavy, fresh and delicious. My favorite day was the tuna poke bar. Following lunch, my new friends and I cozied up on beanbags and couches to watch our surfing from the hour prior. The Surf Synergy staff videotaped our time on the water with drones and cameras for us to analyze as a group with our coaches to visualize how to improve the next day. This time was filled with wild laughter, abundance and gratitude.

Before our relaxing free time in the late afternoon and community stretching before dinner, we spent time by the infinity pool to discuss wellness topics and how to apply our lifestyle at Surf Synergy at home. Chris Lindley, chief population health officer for Vail Health and the executive director of Eagle Valley Behavioral Health at Vail Health, and Dr. Eliza Klearman, licensed naturopathic doctor and acupuncturist, led fascinating discussions and flourishing conversations around women’s health, nutrition, the power of joy and more.

Dinner was served back in the stunning Casa Cielo, where I savored every bite of homemade sushi with sun-kissed cheeks. We concluded each night with sauna sessions and a cold plunge. We alternated between the two contrasting therapies to enhance blood circulation, boost immunity, encourage a good night’s rest and feel our best for the next day’s journey. This was not difficult, as my cozy bungalow overlooked the water and boasted a wealth of top-tier amenities, each thoughtfully designed to provide ultimate comfort and relaxation.

SELF-CARE IS HEALTH CARE

Time in our bodies is a gift, that is why we call it the present. My time with Vail Health in Costa Rica taught me this.

I was honored to learn alongside 17 other women and members of the Vail Health community. Together, we created personalized foundations, so we can each evolve on a path of well-being and keep spending our days doing things that bring us joy. Retreat member Polly shares, “I don’t remember the last time I was excited to go to bed so I could wake up in the morning.”

Photo by Chloe Wasserstrom

The cherished time spent at Surf Synergy continues to remind me to embrace my personal vitality, creativity and sense of adventure. You too can add this genuine, raw authenticity onto your surfboard and into your life when Vail Health returns to Jacó’s wellness capital Nov. 1-8, 2025, open to both men and women eager to promote their health-span and wellness. This week-long refreshing yet exhilarating week is a life-long investment where you will learn that “balance isn’t something you achieve once; it’s something you chase every single day, both on the waves and off,” as Lindley says.

Chloe Wasserstrom
Community Engagement Coordinator
@chlowass

Originally published in the summer + fall 2025 issue of Well.