WELCOME TO
Interconnected
SHIFT’S ONLINE MAGAZINE
A Bit About The Magazine
Interconnected magazine is Shift's voice, merged with expert guest knowledge, that explores the belief that everything is interconnected, deepening our relationship with the natural world and ourselves.
Our magazine features thought-provoking content spanning community living, sustainable architecture, and innovative design.
Interconnected aims to provide new insights that inspire a more conscious way of life.
Please note that our online magazine has only just launched. We will be releasing a new article every Friday. We invite you to share your thoughts and spark discussions in the comments.
Happy reading!
2/17/25
Bruma del Bosque: A Sustainable Housing Community Where Modern Living Meets Nature
Imagine living in a home that not only brings you closer to nature but also leaves a minimal impact on the planet—this is the essence of Bruma del Bosque. This unique home combines modern functionality with sustainable design, creating a perfect sanctuary for conscious living. Designed by architect Karla Venegas, Bruma del Bosque redefines the concept of eco-friendly real estate, blending beauty, comfort, and environmental responsibility in a harmonious way. Whether you’re looking for a retreat or a family home, this space offers a flexible solution that adapts to your needs while keeping the environment at its core.
2/21/25
Multispecies Pinecone Ginger Folly: A Living Structure in Nosara, Costa Rica
In El Pochote, the first neighborhood of Shift Esperanza, a unique architectural structure will rise organically from the landscape: the Pinecone Ginger Tower. More than a sculptural folly, this pavilion is designed to celebrate the region’s biodiversity, blending art, ecology, and regenerative design. Inspired by the pinecone ginger plant (Zingiber zerumbet), the tower’s form mimics the plant’s layered bracts, creating a harmonious connection between architecture and nature.
4/11/25
The Epidemic of Loneliness: Why Regenerative Communities Matter More Than Ever
Inspired by the CBS News report, “Feeling anti-social? You're not alone. But here's why it could hurt your health.”
In a world increasingly shaped by technology, convenience, and disconnection, the very fabric of human well-being is being tested. As highlighted in a recent CBS News report, loneliness has become a public health epidemic, with former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy warning that over half of U.S. adults have experienced it. [Instead of saying “experienced it,”give example or stat about number of people who don’t have a friend] At Shift Esperanza, we believe the antidote lies in the power of human connection, the foundation of our intentional community.
04/25/25
Rooted in Belonging: How Shift Esperanza Is Creating a Culture of Care in Nosara
In a world that’s moving fast and growing apart, Shift Esperanza offers a different path, one grounded in shared values, local collaboration, and the belief that a thriving community is one where people, land, and culture grow together.
At the heart of Shift is a clear intention: to give more than we take. And that begins by rethinking what development means, especially in a place like Nosara, where the rhythms of the land and the strength of local relationships shape daily life.
3/28/25
How to Buy Property in Costa Rica as a Foreigner: Investment & Financial Opportunity
Costa Rica has long been recognized as one of the most attractive destinations for real estate investment, offering a combination of stable economic growth, a welcoming environment for foreign investors, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to retire, invest in a rental property, or find a permanent home, Costa Rica’s real estate market provides unique opportunities, particularly in Nosara, a vibrant community within the Nicoya Peninsula, one of the world’s five Blue Zones.
7/30/24
Harnessing Intergenerational Wisdom: How we can draw from Nosara’s communities to create more fulfilling lives.
Researchers have found that our minds grow best through social interactions, where people come together around different cultural tools and practices. By blending the best from various cultures, we can transform ourselves and our communities. Here in Nosara, Costa Rica, the local community is rich with the sense of unity, where elders' wisdom seamlessly merges with youth's energy, creating a social ecosystem of shared experiences and mutual learning.
5/02/25
The Heart of Shift Esperanza: Rights and Responsibilities That Shape a Conscious Community
In a world where connection can feel fleeting and communities often form by chance rather than intention, Shift Esperanza is choosing a different path, one shaped by shared values, clarity of purpose, and an unwavering belief in the power of people to uplift one another.
At the core of this intentional community lies a framework that ensures both freedom and accountability: a list of Rights and Responsibilities developed not just as a formality, but as a living commitment to conscious coexistence.
2/27/25
Redefining Sustainable Development
The Vision Behind Shift Esperanza in Nosara, Costa Rica
Matthew Blesso, founder of Shift Esperanza, sits down with Richard Bexson, host of the Costa Rica Real Estate & Investments podcast to discuss his journey of creating a community-focused, environmentally sustainable real estate project in Nosara. From his early experiences as a real estate developer in New York to his vision of a new housing model in Costa Rica, Matthew shares insights on how Shift Esperanza aims to set a new standard for conscious living and regenerative development.
3/14/25
Finca La Esperanza: A regenerative farm designed using permaculture principles
Nestled within Shift Esperanza, Finca La Esperanza represents a cornerstone of the community’s commitment to regenerative agriculture and environmental restoration. What was once a degraded cattle pasture has transformed into a thriving, 8-acre organic farm designed to restore the land while providing fresh, nutrient-dense produce to the Shift Esperanza community.
6/13/24
Education In Nosara: A Fresh Perspective on Learning
Recent studies have shown that a staggering 43% of U.S. public school parents believe schools are doing a poor job in preparing students for the future, highlighting a big disconnect between educational institutions and the needs of today’s students. This growing dissatisfaction has sparked a search for alternative educational environments that nurture a child's development beyond the conventional classroom. In this article, we explore how Nosara’s schools are pushing the boundaries and providing new ways of learning.
3/08/35
Water at Shift Esperanza: A Sustainability Revolution
In the heart of Nosara's tropical dry forest, water tells a story of extremes. With half the year parched and dusty, and the other half drenched in tropical rainfall, a delicate dance defines life in our breathtaking region. Currently, water scarcity is so acute that buyers in the Guiones area face an unprecedented challenge: no water letters are being issued, effectively halting development.
4/30/19
The Nature of the Self
Are we all living on autopilot? In a world where modern conveniences increasingly isolate us from the natural world, we risk losing touch with the essence of who we are. This inaugural article of Interconnected magazine delves into the profound connections we share with nature—from the complex networks of mycelium beneath our feet to the vast cosmic dance above. By exploring these connections, we aim to deepen our understanding of ourselves and uncover the essential, intricate bonds we share with the natural world.
2/21/25
What Makes Nosara's Airbnb Market So Attractive?
Nosara’s short-term rental market continues to outperform the rest of the country, thanks to its strong wellness culture, consistent surf tourism, and position within one of the world’s five Blue Zone regions known for longevity and a high quality of life.
4/4/25
What Makes Nosara One of the Best Places to Live in Costa Rica?
Nestled on the Nicoya Peninsula, one of the world’s five Blue Zones, Nosara has become one of the most sought-after destinations in Costa Rica for those seeking a sustainable, healthy, and connected lifestyle. Known for its untouched natural beauty, vibrant wellness scene, strong sense of community, and conscious development, Nosara stands apart as a place where people don’t just live but thrive.
2/5/25
6 Key Neighborhoods to Buy Property in Nosara: What Every Buyer Needs to Know
Nosara, nestled on Costa Rica's breathtaking Nicoya Peninsula—one of the world's renowned Blue Zones—has emerged as a top destination for relocation and real estate investment. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant expat community, welcoming locals, and a strong focus on eco-conscious, wellness-oriented living, Nosara offers a diverse range of neighborhoods tailored to various lifestyles and preferences. Whether you're dreaming of a surfside escape, an eco-friendly community, or a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, Nosara has something for everyone.
05/09/25
Building a Greener Future: Applying Permaculture Principles in Architecture
Nestled in the heart of Nosara, Nicoya, a Blue Zone renowned for its longevity and deep connection to nature, Shift Esperanza is redefining sustainable living. At the heart of this initiative lies permaculture, a design philosophy that mimics natural ecosystems to create self-sufficient, regenerative environments. More than just a method of agriculture, permaculture integrates with architecture, creating homes and communities that work in harmony with nature.
05/09/2025
Regenerative Real Estate: How Shift Esperanza Redefines Sustainable Living
“Sustainable” isn’t enough anymore. At best, it means maintaining the status quo. But what if real estate could heal rather than harm? What if building homes meant rebuilding ecosystems, and developing land meant deepening community, not displacing it?
That’s the vision behind Shift Esperanza—a regenerative real estate project in Nosara, Costa Rica. We’re not perfect. But we are actively working to restore degraded land, regenerate natural systems, and reimagine the relationship between people, place, and planet.
Architecture
Uncover new, cutting-edge designs and practices, highlighting how architecture can harmonize with nature to cultivate environmental health and beautiful yet conscious spaces.
Community & Culture
Discover the magic of community and caring for one another, showing how personal growth and connection with others are naturally linked.
Sustainability & Conscious Living
Learn about effective strategies for land regeneration and the tangible benefits of embracing a symbiotic relationship with nature.
Innovation & Design
Delve into the creative intersection of sustainability and aesthetics where cutting-edge design and artistry shapes a living environment that is both distinct and visually inspiring.
