Bringing the Beach to Your Body and Mind
What do Oceans of Fun and a rainforest boutique hotel have in common?
More than you’d think—and everything, as far as I’m concerned.
In 2018, when I was 43, I bought my first season pass to Oceans of Fun. It was my way of enjoying a vacation one afternoon at a time. Running a small massage therapy studio in Kansas City meant that time and money for long getaways just weren’t in the cards. So I chose bite-sized escapes.
That first summer, I set a goal to visit at least 10 times. The next year? Twenty. I’m lucky to live just 10–15 minutes from this classic KC waterpark, which opened in 1983. And because my massage schedule books up on weekends, I often get to visit midweek—when it’s quieter. A perfect perk. Bonus points: It made sweltering summer days way more bearable when I didn’t have central AC at home.
I’ve got a whole system for maximizing my time at Oceans of Fun (you can read about that here). Most days, I go solo—and I love it. The crashing waves, the laughter of families, the smell of sunscreen and funnel cakes drifting from the nearby Worlds of Fun... Yes, it’s a hot concrete park in the Midwest. But for me, it feels like a vacation every time.
Part of the magic is the anticipation. Planning, counting down to opening day, daydreaming about a weekday splash while I’m working—it all adds up. Our brains crave the promise of rest. A vacation isn’t just about the destination; it’s about knowing a break is coming.
I remember buzzing around the stockroom at Target when I worked there full-time during the pandemic. Oceans of Fun was closed that year, but I told my coworkers, “When it reopens, we’re going—pina coladas at the adult pool!” Even just thinking about it gave me a reason to smile through dark, uncertain times.
Recently, I had the privilege of visiting Costa Rica—and stayed at the magical Almonds and Corals Boutique Hotel . Picture screened-in cabins nestled in the rainforest, just steps from a beach with black and gold sand. Birds, howler monkeys, ocean waves, warm breezes—it was like something out of a dream.
When we were walking the beach on the first day, I turned to my friend and said, “This is just like Oceans of Fun.” I laughed and quickly clarified: “This is the place I imagine when I’m floating in the wave pool back home.”
I hope my friend wasn’t insulted. And I certainly hope the hosts of Almonds and Corals won’t take offense. What I meant is: I love this place. I felt deeply at peace. And while I don’t often travel internationally, I carry the memory with me.
Because rest isn’t just about where you go—it’s about how you feel. Sometimes, you close your eyes and summon a memory, or even a daydream, and that’s enough to soothe your nervous system. A mini mental escape.
Since returning from Costa Rica, I’ve been reflecting on the beauty of that place—the kindness of the people, the warmth of the sun, the stillness of the ocean air. I bring that inspiration back to my work at Solaris Massage.
I hope that when you book a session here, it feels like a little vacation. That you get to look forward to it, savor it while you're here, and carry a bit of peace with you when you leave.
Pura Vida—right here in Kansas City.