I have been interested in healthy living for most of my life.
I love movement, healthy food, nature, hiking, yoga, and learning about the human body. I have studied nutrition, completed different fitness and coaching courses (including NLP), and I am also a yoga teacher with more than 600 hours of YTT training.
I meditate… not always regularly, but I try.
I am also familiar with Ayurvedic principles and have followed and used some of them in my daily life for many years. I have always believed that health is not only about exercise or food, but also about balance, and how we live our everyday lives.
Many people think a healthy lifestyle means strict discipline, hard workouts, and eating only salad. For me, it has never felt like that.
I am not obsessed with being “perfect”. I am not vegan, and I still enjoy a glass of wine sometimes.
I love how good it feels to have energy in the body. I love the feeling after a good workout or a long hike in nature. Physical tiredness can actually feel wonderful when the body is strong and healthy.
I turned 60 this winter, and I have felt youthful, active, and full of life most of the time.
For most of my life, I have slept well, stayed healthy, and had a lot of energy and motivation for new adventures.
But recently, something changed.
Last autumn, after the yoga and hiking retreat season ended, I suddenly felt completely drained. My wrists, shoulders, and knees started hurting more than before. Usually, small pains disappeared after a few days or a week, but this time they stayed.
I know that many health problems begin in the body years before we actually become “sick”.
So I started looking deeper.
I tried acupuncture and started taking some vitamins and supplements recommended by the acupuncture doctor. I looked into functional medicine, tried bioresonance therapy, did a body cleanse, and added more minerals and vitamins.
Of course, I also visited regular doctors and had X-rays and MRI scans. The results showed nothing serious — just some normal wear and tear in the joints.
I reduced my training load, focused more on breathing exercises, recovery, meditation, and rest.
Things are definitely better now than they were last autumn, but after many months, I still do not feel completely like myself.
That is when I became seriously interested in biohacking.
Many people have heard this word but are not exactly sure what it means. The book defines biohacking as the optimization of performance, health, and well-being through science, technology, and nutrition.
For me, biohacking means learning how to support the body and mind in smarter and more natural ways. It means understanding how sleep, recovery, nutrition, movement, stress, breathing, exposure to cold and heat, hormones, and daily habits affect our energy, health, and longevity.
Not extreme things.
Not becoming superhuman.
Just small changes that can help us feel and function better.
I had heard about biohacking before, watched a film, listened to podcasts, and read articles online, but now I finally ordered the book Biohacker’s Handbook, written by Finnish experts Teemu Arina, Jaakko Halmetoja, and Olli Sovijärvi. What interested me about this book is that the authors come from very different backgrounds. One is a medical doctor, one is a technology and performance expert, and one focuses on nutrition, herbs, and natural health. I really like this combination because I believe health should be viewed as a whole system, not just from a single angle.
And honestly, I realized there are still so many small things I can improve.
Sleep quality, recovery, and HRV.
Blood sugar balance.
Minerals.
Cold and heat exposure.
Breathing.
Stress management.
Hormones.
Gut health.
Training.
I do not want to become obsessed with health.
I simply want to understand my body better and continue living an active, strong, and energetic life for many more years.
So this is the beginning of my biohacking journey.
I will share what I learn, what works for me, and also what does not.
If you would like to join my small health and longevity community and learn simple tips for better energy, recovery, and wellbeing, follow me on social media and stay connected.
In today’s fast-paced world, many people feel overwhelmed, tired, and disconnected from their bodies. Stress, poor sleep, irregular meals, and constant digital stimulation can slowly drain our energy and vitality. While modern medicine offers important solutions, many people are also turning to ancient traditions that view health more holistically. One of the oldest and most respected systems of natural healing is Ayurveda.
Ayurveda is more than just a wellness trend—it is a comprehensive philosophy of life that has been practiced for over 5,000 years. Originating in India, Ayurveda focuses on creating harmony between body, mind, and spirit. Its timeless wisdom teaches us that true health is not only the absence of disease but a state of balance, vitality, and inner peace.
What Does Ayurveda Mean?
The word Ayurveda comes from the ancient language Sanskrit and is composed of two words:
- Ayur – life
- Veda – knowledge or science
Together, Ayurveda means “the science of life.”
Unlike many modern health systems that focus mainly on treating symptoms, Ayurveda aims to understand the root cause of imbalance. It recognizes that every person is unique and that optimal health depends on living in alignment with our individual nature and with the rhythms of nature around us.
The Philosophy Behind Ayurveda
At the heart of Ayurveda is the belief that everything in the universe—including the human body—is made up of five fundamental elements:
- Space
- Air
- Fire
- Water
- Earth
These elements combine within the body to create three energetic forces known as doshas. The balance of these doshas determines our physical and mental characteristics.
The three doshas are:
Vata (Air + Space)
People with strong Vata energy often tend to be:
- Creative and enthusiastic
- Sensitive to cold and dryness
- Energetic and quick-thinking
Vata is associated with movement, creativity, and communication. It governs breathing, circulation, and the nervous system.
When Vata becomes imbalanced, it may lead to anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, or digestive issues.
Pitta (Fire + Water)
Pitta represents transformation and metabolism. It controls digestion, body temperature, and intellectual processing.
People with strong Pitta qualities are often:
- Focused and ambitious
- Intelligent and decisive
- Warm-bodied and strong in digestion
However, excess Pitta can cause irritability, inflammation, or burnout.
Kapha (Earth + Water)
Kapha provides structure, stability, and endurance. It supports immunity, joint lubrication, and emotional calm.
Kapha types are often:
- Calm and compassionate
- Loyal and patient
- Physically strong with steady energy
When Kapha is out of balance, it may lead to lethargy, weight gain, or congestion.
Why Balance Is the Key to Health
According to Ayurveda, every person is born with a unique combination of the three doshas called their Prakriti, or natural constitution.
Problems begin when lifestyle habits—such as poor diet, stress, lack of sleep, or environmental factors—disturb this natural balance. Ayurveda aims to restore harmony through gentle and natural methods, including:
- diet and nutrition
- herbal medicine
- yoga and movement
- meditation and breathing practices
- daily lifestyle routines
- detoxification therapies
Rather than offering one universal solution, Ayurveda emphasizes personalized health.
The Importance of Daily Rhythms
One of the most practical aspects of Ayurveda is the concept of daily routines, also known as Dinacharya. Ayurveda teaches that aligning our daily habits with natural rhythms can dramatically improve health and energy levels.
Examples of Ayurvedic daily practices include:
- Waking up early, ideally before sunrise
- Drinking warm water in the morning
- Practicing yoga or gentle movement
- Eating the largest meal at midday when digestion is strongest
- Going to bed early to support natural recovery
These simple routines help regulate the nervous system, digestion, and hormonal balance.
Ayurveda and Nutrition
Food plays a central role in Ayurvedic healing. Instead of focusing only on calories or nutrients, Ayurveda considers the energetic qualities of food.
Foods are chosen based on how they affect the doshas. For example:
- Vata benefits from warm, grounding foods like soups, grains, and root vegetables.
- Pitta thrives on cooling foods such as leafy greens, fruits, and coconut.
- Kapha benefits from lighter, warming foods with spices.
Ayurveda also encourages mindful eating—taking time to enjoy meals, eating in a calm environment, and listening to the body’s signals of hunger and fullness.
Herbal Medicine in Ayurveda
Ayurvedic practitioners use a wide range of herbs to support healing and balance. These herbs have been used for centuries and are often combined into formulas that target specific imbalances.
Some well-known Ayurvedic herbs include:
- Ashwagandha – supports stress resilience and energy
- Turmeric – known for its anti-inflammatory properties
- Tulsi – helps support immunity and respiratory health
- Triphala – supports digestion and detoxification
These herbs are typically used alongside lifestyle practices rather than as standalone treatments.
Detoxification and Rejuvenation
A central Ayurvedic therapy is Panchakarma, a traditional detoxification process designed to remove toxins from the body.
Panchakarma treatments may include:
- therapeutic oil massages
- herbal steam baths
- cleansing therapies
- specialized diets
The goal is not only physical detoxification but also deep mental and emotional rejuvenation.
Ayurveda and Yoga
Ayurveda and Yoga developed side by side in ancient India and complement each other beautifully.
While Ayurveda focuses on balancing the body through lifestyle and nutrition, yoga works with the mind and energy system through:
- physical postures (asanas)
- breathing practices (pranayama)
- meditation
Together, they create a holistic path toward greater awareness, health, and inner harmony.
Ayurveda in the Modern World
In recent decades, Ayurveda has gained increasing popularity worldwide as people search for natural ways to improve their well-being. Wellness centers, yoga retreats, and Ayurvedic clinics can now be found across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Many travelers visit Sri Lanka and India to experience authentic Ayurvedic treatments in peaceful natural surroundings. These retreats often combine traditional therapies, yoga, meditation, and nourishing cuisine to support deep rest and renewal.
For many people, even small changes inspired by Ayurveda—such as mindful eating, better sleep habits, and daily movement—can bring noticeable improvements in energy and health.
A Path Toward Conscious Living
Ayurveda reminds us that health is not something we chase only when we become sick. Instead, it is something we cultivate daily through conscious choices.
By listening to our bodies, respecting natural rhythms, and nourishing ourselves with wholesome food, movement, and rest, we can create a lifestyle that supports both vitality and inner peace.
In a world that often pushes us to move faster and do more, Ayurveda gently invites us to slow down, reconnect with nature, and rediscover the wisdom within our own bodies.
If you feel called to experience the healing wisdom of Ayurveda for yourself, I invite you to join my Ayurveda and Yoga retreat in beautiful Sri Lanka—you can learn more and reserve your place here.
This was more than just a yoga retreat, it was an active adventure with volcano hiking, baby sea turtles, and ancient Mayan culture.
With all the stresses of daily life adding up, it’s no surprise that more and more people are looking to stay at a yoga retreat on their travels. Yoga retreats are not just about improving fitness and strength, but about calming your mind and connecting you to your spiritual self.
Guatemala is known as the Land of Eternal Spring, for its active volcanoes, rainforests, ancient Mayan sites, Spanish colonial towns, and the iconic Lake Atitlan surrounded by gorgeous nature spots. With all this nature, you’ll be nestled in a landscape that exhales calmness and tranquility.
Imagine a deep, cobalt lake surrounded by dozens of tiny villages and looming volcanoes. That is Lake Atitlan in Guatemala. Its shores have been attracting hippies and hedonistic travelers for decades.
It is no secret that Guatemala grows some of the best coffee in the world. If you know a little about coffee, then you know that the best coffee grows at higher elevations.
Antigua Guatemala is known as the best-preserved Spanish colonial city in Central America. Stroll the cobblestone streets, lounge with the locals in Central Park on sunny afternoons, or hike up one of the volcanoes overlooking the city for amazing views. Antigua used to be the capital of Guatemala until a damaging earthquake caused a switch to Guatemala City. As harrowing as the earthquake must have been at that time, some of the remains of Antigua’s stunning colonial buildings still stand today.
In November 2023, I had the pleasure of organizing and leading a yoga retreat in Guatemala, accompanied by an eclectic group of eleven individuals hailing from Norway, Estonia, Canada, Austria, the UK, the USA, and Hungary. Our adventure began with some of us arriving in Guatemala City before the retreat officially commenced. Despite a minor setback with one member missing her initial flight from Amsterdam, we eventually all convened, eager to start our journey.
Exploring Flores Island and the ancient Mayan ruins in Tikal
Our first stop was Flores, a charming town serving as a gateway to the ancient Maya ruins of Tikal. Tikal, nestled within a dense rainforest, welcomed us with towering pyramids, intricately carved stone structures, and sprawling plazas.
Tikal is the ruin of the ancient city, found in a rainforest in Guatemala. It is one of the largest archeological sites and urban centers of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization. It is located in the archeological region of the Peten, Tikal National Park, and in 1979 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We stayed in Flores for 3 nights and took 2 trips to Tikal. Flores Island in Guatemala is located in Peten, one hour south of Tikal. It is surrounded by the third biggest lake in Guatemala, Lake Peten Itza.
The picturesque town of Flores Guatemala offers you the chance to enjoy stunning landscapes and cultural activities, plus, it is the gateway to most of the archaeological Mayan parks around the area. This quiet Island is one of the 25 most colorful places in the world. It hosts a big concentration of restaurants, cafés, and pubs to keep you busy during your stay. Flores is the perfect place to relax for a couple of days, combining it with awesome things to do like exciting excursions to the Crib of the Mayas, one of the biggest civilizations in the history of the world.
We embarked on a local flight back to Guatemala City to meet the group.
Immersing Ourselves in Antigua's Culture and History
Our next destination was Antigua, a city renowned for its colonial architecture and vibrant culture. Arriving during the Flowers Festival, we were greeted by streets adorned with colorful blooms. We spent the afternoon visiting the local artisan market and strolling through cobblestone streets, savoring the rich history of this charming city. Antigua used to be the capital of Guatemala until a damaging earthquake caused a switch to Guatemala City. As harrowing as the earthquake must have been at that time, some of the remains of Antigua’s stunning colonial buildings still stand today.
Challenging Ourselves with the Acatenango Vulcano overnight hike
The highlight of our journey, however, awaited us atop the Acatenango Volcano. Setting out early from Antigua, we embarked on a challenging overnight hike through diverse ecosystems, each offering its unique charm. From verdant forests teeming with wildlife to barren volcanic terrain, the ascent tested our physical endurance and mental fortitude. But reaching the campsite at 3600 meters was a moment of triumph, rewarded with sweeping views of the Antigua Valley and the fiery eruptions of nearby Volcan Fuego.
At dawn, we stood in awe atop Acatenango, witnessing a sunrise that painted the sky in hues of gold and pink. The panoramic views of Volcan Fuego, the Antigua Valley, and the distant Guatemalan highlands left us breathless, a testament to the raw beauty of nature. Descending back to Antigua, we savored a well-deserved rest, shower, and delicious dinner, reflecting on the challenges overcome and the bonds forged.
Rejuvenating with Yoga and Retreat Activities at Lake Atitlan
Our journey was far from over as we made our way to Eagles Nest by the shores of Lake Atitlan, a tranquil sanctuary nestled amidst verdant hills and azure waters. Here, we surrendered to the rhythm of yoga, ecstatic dance, and nourishing vegetarian cuisine, finding solace in the embrace of nature and community. Lake Atitlán sits at an altitude of just over 1550 meters above sea level. The surrounding Lake Atitlan is world-renowned for its Cacao and Coffee plantations.
Arriving at Eagles Nest by Lake Atitlan was like coming to paradise. Eagle's Nest is an awe-inspiring ecological resort and world-class event venue for transformational growth and adventure travelers, artists, and digital nomads. There we indulged in yoga, ecstatic dance, and nourishing vegetarian cuisine. Each day began with yoga classes overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Atitlan, where we were blessed to witness majestic flights of eagles soaring gracefully overhead, adding to the serenity of our practice. Afterward, we savored delicious meals, all while enjoying the breathtaking views that surrounded us, enhancing our moments of relaxation and introspection.
Mayan Cacao Ceremony
One of the most profound experiences during our retreat in Guatemala was the Sacred Mayan Cacao Ceremony, a spiritual ritual deeply rooted in ancient traditions. Guided by a local shaman, we gathered in a sacred circle around a fire, surrounded by the intoxicating aroma of freshly brewed cacao.
As the ceremony drew to a close, we emerged renewed and rejuvenated, our hearts overflowing with gratitude and love. The Sacred Mayan Cacao Ceremony touched us in ways we never imagined, leaving an indelible imprint on our souls and deepening our connection to ourselves, each other, and the world around us.
Waking to Tzununa and Waterfall Hike
Our exploration extended to the Tzununa permaculture farm, where we learned about fermentation at Love Probiotics. Sampling tangy sauerkrauts and fizzy kombuchas, we embraced the health benefits of probiotic foods and beverages.
Love Probiotics produce healthy, live, locally sourced, fermented probiotic foods and beverages (various types of raw sauerkrauts, raw vinegar, organic black, green, and white tea kombuchas, ginger beer, sparkling water kefirs, jun tea, organic kefir yogurt, Lacto-fermented hot sauce, super-food bliss balls, sourdough bread and more!), and they also offer a variety of hands-on fermentation workshops. After a long day of walking to Tzununa and hiking to the local waterfall, we took a boat back to San Marcos La Laguna, enjoying a relaxing 15-minute ride with picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes.
Witnessing the Spectacular Sunrise from Indian Nose
As our journey in Guatemala continued, we eagerly anticipated the sunrise hike to Indian Nose, also known as Mayan Nose or Face, a towering mountain perched on the northwest shore of Lake Atitlan. Setting out before dawn, our group embarked on the ascent of Indian Nose, guided by the local guide and the faint glow of the early morning sky. The path wound its way upwards, snaking through dense foliage and rocky outcrops, each step bringing us closer to the summit and the promise of an unforgettable sunrise.
After a brisk climb lasting approximately 30 to 45 minutes, we reached the summit of Indian Nose, greeted by panoramic views that stretched as far as the eye could see. Before us, a chain of volcanoes stood sentinel, their silhouettes etched against the canvas of the dawn sky. Below, the pristine waters of Lake Atitlan shimmered in the first light of day, casting a spellbinding glow upon the landscape.
Soaring Above Panajachel: Paragliding Adventure
Panajachel, affectionately known as Pana, served as the backdrop for one of the most exhilarating experiences of our journey – paragliding. Nestled on the shores of Lake Atitlan and surrounded by towering volcanoes, this vibrant town captivated us with its eclectic mix of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.
With experienced instructors guiding us every step of the way, we soared high above Panajachel, the wind rushing past us as we marveled at the panoramic views below. From our vantage point in the sky, we were treated to a bird's-eye view of the San Pedro, Tolimán, and Atitlán volcanoes, their majestic peaks rising in the distance. Below, the shimmering waters of Lake Atitlan stretched out before us, framed by lush greenery and the bustling town of Panajachel.
For those with paragliding on their bucket list, Panajachel offered the perfect opportunity to fulfill their dreams, with experienced instructors providing a safe and thrilling experience. As we glided through the air, suspended between earth and sky, we felt a sense of freedom and exhilaration, unlike anything we had ever experienced before.
Pacific Coast - our yoga retreat's final destination
After bidding farewell to Lake Atitlan, we ventured to the Pacific coast, where we witnessed the release of baby sea turtles into the ocean. Amidst black sand beaches and crashing waves, we marveled at the wonders of nature, grateful for the opportunity to witness such a spectacle. Nestled in the laid-back village of El Paredon, with its spectacular black sand beach and crashing ocean waves, we savored our dinner together.
With hearts full and spirits uplifted, we bid farewell to the Pacific Coast, our souls enriched by the beauty of the natural world and the bonds of friendship that had blossomed during our time together.
Continuing the Adventure Beyond the Yoga Retreat: Hiking to Semuc Champey
Some of us chose to extend our stay to explore Semuc Champey, a natural wonder nestled in the Maya town of Languín. Despite the challenges of travel, the turquoise pools offered a serene sanctuary amidst the rugged terrain, a fitting end to our journey of exploration.
If you google Guatemala, Semuc Champey seems to be one of the most important places to visit and stay for several days. But the problem is how to get there. Whatever way you choose, it means at least 7-10 hrs of traveling in a bus along bumpy roads. That's why Semuc Champey gives me mixed feelings. We traveled there from Antigua, 9 hrs. It was one day on a bus.
Arriving at our destination, we found ourselves faced with the daunting task of traversing the final stretch of our journey. Determined to embrace the adventure, we opted to embark on a 12-kilometer walk from our hostel near Languín to Semuc Champey, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of the Guatemalan countryside.
As we trekked through rolling hills and verdant valleys, we were greeted by the warm smiles of locals, their hospitality a testament to the enduring spirit of the region. Despite the cloud-covered sky, the cool breeze provided respite from the sweltering heat, allowing us to enjoy the journey without succumbing to exhaustion.
However, our romanticized vision of the trek was soon challenged by the harsh reality of roadworks and muddy terrain. With each step, the once picturesque path devolved into a treacherous mud hole, testing our resolve and leaving us longing for the tranquility of Semuc Champey's crystalline waters.
Upon reaching our destination, we were greeted by the mesmerizing sight of the turquoise pools, their beauty a stark contrast to the rugged landscape that had led us there. After a refreshing swim and a leisurely lunch, we reluctantly began our journey back, eager to escape the confines of the muddy trails and return to civilization.
As we made our way back to Guatemala City, we were reminded once again of the unpredictable nature of travel. Yet, amidst the chaos and confusion, we found moments of laughter and camaraderie, forging bonds that would endure long after our journey had come to an end. And so, as we bid farewell to Semuc Champey, we carried with us not only memories of its unparalleled beauty but also the lessons learned from our journey – a testament to the transformative power of travel and the resilience of the human spirit.
As we said our farewells to Guatemala, we carried with us memories of adventure, camaraderie, and self-discovery. Our journey had been a testament to the transformative power of travel, weaving together moments of exploration, connection, and reflection into a tapestry of unforgettable experiences.
Join our next Guatemala adventure here.
Here is the blog post about Guatemalan cuisine.
Will you be fully vaccinated soon? Or have you taken your COVID-19 vaccination and are looking to travel sometime in the near future?
As vaccines are being rolled out across the world, it brings the promise of a return to our pre-pandemic life, or, at the very least, something close to it.
That said, it’s important to keep in mind that while these shots do come with some protection against the virus, some regulations, such as lifting the mandated use of masks, may not be happening as soon as we’d hoped.
Should you choose to travel sometimes in the near future, it’s highly advisable to continue to take health & safety precautions, such as wearing a mask, washing your hands often, and maintaining the practice of physical distancing.
While it’s not mandatory, you should also consider getting tested 3 to 5 days after arrival and self-isolate for 7 days, even though you are fully vaccinated. We are still unsure as to how much protection the vaccines offer against the new variants of the virus (and the strains continue to emerge), so, it’s always better to be safe.
In short, being fully vaccinated does give you more ‘freedom’ and peace of mind when it comes to travel but it’s in you & your fellow travelers’ best interest to maintain precautions when traveling.
Not only is it crucial for us to ‘adhere’ to local rules but also to keep personal consideration and precaution for the sake of your and others’ health and safety.
Even if you are fully vaccinated, these days, the type of travel you choose to take matters more than ever.
Domestic travel has been returning slowly but steadily starting last summer. With the rollout of vaccines, countries that are likely to reach herd immunity faster, maybe a ‘safer’ choice for locals and non-locals alike.
Many travelers are now choosing destinations that are off-the-beaten paths, those that are away from condensed cities, and often, these places are immersed in nature.
A yoga retreat in nature is a great choice for any traveler. Some retreats are easy-going while others go above and beyond to offer a wealth of activities. But no matter where you choose to go, it is easy to combine other outdoor activities such as hiking, walking, cycling, or running with your yoga sessions.
To get to your travel destination, road trips are recommended as non-public transportation is safer than using public transportation. In fact, according to the CDC, fully vaccinated travelers who go on a road trip and are moderately careful at the destination, would have a relatively ‘safe trip’.
Another way to lower risk is to choose to visit a country that is waiving restrictions for fully vaccinated travelers. At the time this article was written, only a handful of countries have gone this route, but, as summer approaches and the vaccine passports are likely to become a reality, more and more countries would consider this option to open for travel.
Lastly, should you choose to travel internationally, it’s better to focus on visiting one country, rather than opting for a multi-country itinerary. Now is the perfect time to focus on slowing down, taking longer to explore a country, immerse in its culture and traditions, and discover local gems.
It’s also important to keep in mind that while the entry requirements into a certain country might not include showing a negative test, the airline might require one to board the plane. Do your due diligence and check the requirements ahead of time so that you can plan accordingly.
Nothing supports our mind and soul to open up like a natural setting. The usual distractions are far away, and your attention and focus are directed towards what’s in front of you, quieting the mind and simplifying your thoughts.
Being in nature awakens your senses – touch, scent, sight – and you cannot help but become more aware of what’s around you and start to appreciate the little things you might usually take for granted.
The smell of morning dew and flowers, a simple bird song, a gentle breeze in your hair, touching the grass or sand, provide stimulation and make you more present. You become more in tune with yourself and the world around you.
On most retreats held in nature, you’ll have the opportunity to do some forest bathing. Also known as Shinrin-yoku, this is the practice of making contact with and taking in the forest atmosphere to receive mental and physical healing.
Read more about our yoga and hiking retreats in Norway, Alaska, and Estonia.
