Journal of International Women's Studies: Costa Rica and the "Electric Fence" Mentality: Stunting Women's Socio-economic Participation in the 21st Century

Costa Rica is regarded as the “top democracy” in Latin America, exceeding basic developmental standards in most categories. The nation’s achievement is evidenced by women’s strong enrollment and retention rates within the nation’s education system. However, Costa Rica’s overwhelming gender disparity in the labor force reveals significant developmental deficiencies and contradicts fundamental democratic ideals. The pervasion of an “electric fence” mentality stunts women’s socio-economic engagement by restraining them to traditionally prescribed gender roles.

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karen tomczak
Headspace: Can you actually seek out peace of mind?

I never believed the idea that good times are fleeting. As a kid, whenever I met failure, adversity, or even stagnancy, I was always indignant and sought immediate correction of my circumstances. My father would say, “Amy, better days are coming.” But I didn’t want to wait. I was sure I could make those better days happen immediately.

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karen tomczak
YourSun.Com: Interest in Yoga growing in North Port

NORTH PORT — Yoga is growing quickly in the city. Just ask Angel Loflin.

“The interest in yoga in North Port is definitely getting larger,” Loflin said. She is the studio manager of North Port Yoga + Wellness, which has just moved into larger space in Bobcat Village. “We have gone from 2,000 square feet to our new facility, which is 3,000 square feet.”

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karen tomczak