From Jersey to the Jungle: Why I Moved to Costa Rica (But I’m Still Coming Back to L.A.)
From Jersey to the Jungle: Why I Moved to Costa Rica (But I’m Still Coming Back to L.A.)
After years of building a rewarding massage practice in Los Angeles and, more recently, in New Jersey, I’ve made a big move: I now live in Costa Rica.
My husband Thomas and I have relocated to the lush outskirts of Tamarindo, a surf town on the Pacific coast, where dirt roads outnumber paved ones and the morning alarm clock is a chorus of roosters echoing through the jungle canopy. It’s a far cry from the familiar pace of the East Coast—but in the best possible way.
This move wasn’t impulsive. If you’ve known me for a while, you’ve probably heard me talk about wanting to relocate somewhere warm and wild—ever since my 30s, when I started taking regular trips to Puerto Rico. That place unlocked something in me: the desire for a slower rhythm, tropical air, and a more intuitive way of living and working. Costa Rica just happened to be the next right chapter in that story.
We loved being close to old friends and family in New Jersey. My Red Bank practice was just gaining steam, and I was honored to support so many people through bodywork. But Thomas was presented with an incredible opportunity to expand his work in plant-based medicine integration here in Costa Rica—his true passion. And when your partner gets a chance to do what he’s made for, you listen.
So I let go of what was growing in Jersey to step into what’s been calling for years.
Still, that doesn’t mean I’m disappearing. Far from it. I’ll still be returning to Los Angeles once a month to see clients—old and new. That city shaped my practice and gave me the foundation I stand on today. I’m still deeply committed to showing up for my people there, and to keeping those connections alive.
My next trips to Los Angeles are already booked:
May 12–18
June 16–22
If you’d like to book a session during either trip, the best way to reach me is by sending a WhatsApp message to +001 (917) 301-0905. I’ll respond quickly and help you lock in a time. (Texts only, please—it’s the most reliable way to stay in touch while I’m off-grid.)
So yes, I live in the jungle now. I drive past cows and iguanas on the way to town. I sweat more. I move slower. But the work hasn’t changed. My massage style is still the same: slow, focused, intuitive, and designed to help your nervous system finally exhale.
Thanks for being part of this next chapter—whether you're reading this from Red Bank, L.A., or somewhere far away. I’m still here. Just with more humidity.
— James Palmer, LMT
WhatsApp: +001 (917) 301-0905
