“Presence and Purpose: Melissa Cadieux on Living the Dream Life in Costa Rica”
December 1st, 2027
Written by: Lifestyle Director at Womens Health magazine
It’s a breezy morning in Nosara, Costa Rica, and as the ocean stretches out below, Melissa sits cross-legged on her couch, sipping hot tea with a warm smile. She’s dressed in a light, flowy lavender dress, a perfect match for the peaceful energy she radiates. Her home, a beautiful four-bedroom retreat surrounded by mango, avocado, and banana trees, is as much a testament to her dreams as it is to her way of life.
“Ahren and I always dreamed of a place like this,” she begins, glancing toward the expansive ocean view. “A home that wasn’t just ours, but felt like an extension of who we are—a sanctuary. We even have our own water well here,” she smiles, “it’s a simple life, and that’s how we love it.”
A Heart-Centered Home and Family
From the covered yoga deck where Melissa films high-quality content for her YouTube channel, to the cozy kitchen island where family and friends gather, every inch of this home reflects the love and intention she and Ahren poured into it. “This is our sanctuary,” she says, her eyes reflecting a peaceful gratitude. “It’s a place where everyone feels seen and loved, including us. Hosting our families here every year and watching our children grow in this environment is an absolute joy.”
Melissa speaks with palpable warmth about her marriage to Ahren. “Our connection only deepens with time and effort,” she shares. “We choose each other daily, and that spills over into how we live every day.”
An Awakening Journey
Her journey here began 19 years ago, at 19, with a spiritual awakening that changed everything. “It was when I started to question everything—the government, the medical industry, the education system, even the dogma of religion,” she reflects. “I realized life wasn’t what it seemed.”
This led her to dive into yoga, consciousness, and the power of thought to create reality. Inspired to learn more, she worked in some of Toronto’s finest restaurants, putting every earned dollar toward courses, travel, and study.
“When I first came to Costa Rica, I just knew it was where I’d live someday,” she recalls. Holding on to that vision, she continued working toward it while expanding her studies, and eventually, she met Ahren—a love that deepened her journey even more.
Melissa shared her dreams with Ahren of a life by the ocean, surfing, living simply, and, eventually, they began crafting this life together. “Life design was at the forefront of every decision… And I’m so glad Ahren had a similar vision to mine!” She says smiling.
As they built their lives, Melissa continued teaching yoga online and became a Lifewave brand partner, helping others while aligning with her mission. Ahren, meanwhile, co-founded The Balanced Man, a retreat program for men at Ascenso in the hills of Nosara—a beautiful boutique hotel, retreat space, and residential community he envisioned and brought to life. “Ascenso is the realization of Ahren’s vision,” she beams. “With modern Mediterranean architecture, a gorgeous cliffside yoga deck, and an open-air restaurant, it’s a community that we’re proud to be part of.”
The Journey to Financial Freedom and Lifewave
Melissa now lives financially free as a brand partner with Lifewave, a leader in light technology, which has allowed her and her family to experience a life full of presence and vitality. “With Lifewave, we’re not only able to provide this incredible technology for ourselves but also for our team and others seeking a life filled with health and alignment,” she says.
As she explains, her work isn’t just about business—it’s a calling. “Our team operates from a place of love and faith, supporting each other and the people we serve. We’re here to help people remember their light and live their dream lives.”
Presence, Health, and Joyful Living
With her best health ever, Melissa feels strong, vibrant, and alive. “Every morning, I meditate, practice yoga, and give myself time to just listen. Being clear and connected to God keeps me grounded and centered,” she says, her hands relaxed around her tea cup. “I love my body, and I honor it daily.”
Intentional about relationships, Melissa makes it a point to connect with someone new each day. “Every interaction is a gift,” she reflects. “There’s a magic in sharing love and presence, and it’s something I feel called to do. We all need love and connection.”
As the conversation winds down, Melissa looks out at the view she once dreamed of, surrounded by the life she has built. “There is nothing special or different about us,” she says, with humility. “We just kept the vision in our mind and hearts, took full responsibility for our lives, and moved forward with unwavering daily intent, trusting ourselves and the Universe.”
“We’re here to remind others that their dreams are possible,” she says, smiling. “This life of liberty, love, and presence is available to anyone who chooses it, anyone who listens to their heart and trusts to follow it with clear intent.”
