“I’m Ilona—part wellness guide, part adventure seeker, fully dedicated to the journey.”
I started out as a triathlete, personal trainer, and all-around (group)fitness instructor, creating unique fitness concepts in places like the Netherlands and Thailand. Wellness has always been my thing, especially the way body, mind, soul, and the environment all connect.
Taking this passion abroad has been a total game-changer. I love connecting and learning from the different perspectives each place brings. It’s fueled my curiosity to keep evolving and sharing what I learn.
My yoga journey began in 2018 in India, where I completed over 500 hours of training. Initially, I focused on Ashtanga and Vinyasa—dynamic, physically intense forms of yoga that suited my athletic background. But as I deepened my practice, I realized I was seeking something more restorative and grounding. This led me to Yin Meridian Yoga, a slower, deeply rejuvenating practice that brought the balance I needed. Since then, I have pursued certifications in Yin Meridian, somatic approaches, and specialized knowledge in fascia and the nervous system. Today, I’m expanding my expertise with MBSR certification, integrating mindfulness and body-centered healing into my practice.
Since twenty eleven, I’ve also been part of a team that runs juice-fasting retreats in Portugal, Turkey, and Spain. Every week, we get to witness and support incredible transformations, both physical and mental.
In twenty eighteen, I made a big decision for my health and took out my breast implants after twelve years following a diagnosis of breast implant illness. This illness led to the development of my autoimmune disorder, Churg-Strauss Syndrome. The experience taught me so much about listening to my intuition and embracing self-love and acceptance. I realized that I didn’t need to strive for perfection—I just needed to be real and true to myself
A plant-based keto diet has been a key part of my healing journey, helping to reduce inflammation and manage my symptoms till-and after surgery. This approach has supported me in reclaiming my health and finding strength in my body once again.
I’m super grateful to keep learning, growing, and helping others find their own path to wellness. This journey has been everything, and it keeps surprising me every day.
Samantha Van IJselmuijden February 24, 2020
Nice words !! 😘
Evelinne Weijmer-Ramos França October 4, 2024
I had the privilege of receiving 3 classes a day from Ilona during my juice retreat in Portugal. She has the right energy, humor, seriousness, sensitivity and expertise for each type of physical activity practiced. She is a complete all-rounder! In my journey to overcome my burnout, she was extremely important in reminding me that without connecting with myself and nature, my process would take even longer. Thank you very much Ilona ❤️