ABOUT US

KIRSTEN

I’m Kirsten and my spiritual name is Uma Shanti. Kirsten represents light, Uma Shanti is the Goddess of the Universe on Earth for peace. I’m here to let my light shine and connect in love, from neutrality. I live in the beautiful south west of Portugal together with Maarten and the shining light of our lives – our three children – Ronja, Lasse and Mika.

I’m a trained Pedagogue (psycho-social worker) and teacher and have worked in youth care and education for many years.

For the past 15 years, I’ve been studying yoga and meditation and completed Yoga Coaching Level 1 and 2 as well as courses in Hatha and Kundalini Yoga.

From 2016 I went through a deeply transformative period in my life. During this time I delved into the dark caverns and negative thoughts within myself and faced my deepest fears which was one of the most valuable parts of the process. 

From vulnerability, courage, surrender and deep love for myself, I am grateful to return from the darkness to the light. My two names reinforce the knowledge that I am here to let my light shine and put myself out into the world as much as possible.

I’ve experienced just how important it is to step outside of your daily routine for a few days and to undertake a ‘journey’ in a safe setting with like-minded people. It allows you to leave us with greater clarity, feeling refreshed and recharged.

MAARTEN

I live with my wife, Kirsten, and our three children on the stunning Costa Vicentina in southwest Portugal. Being close to nature has always been my passion, and guiding others to explore and connect with the natural world gives me a profound sense of purpose.
My university journey began at the Outdoor Sports Academy in the Netherlands, where I laid the foundation for my career in outdoor education. Shortly after, I earned a degree in Physical Education. Over the past 17 years, I have taught and coached both youths and adults in indoor and outdoor settings, helping them build resilience, discover their strengths, and achieve personal growth. During this time, I’ve led youth groups in different outdoor sports in and around the Alpine, Norway and beyond.

In addition to teaching and coaching, I have practiced yoga and meditation for more than 15 years. This personal practice inspired me to pursue accredited training in Yoga Coaching (levels 1 and 2), which deepened my understanding of physical, spiritual, and emotional approaches to personal development. Building on this, I further developed my skills with MyQuest, integrating yoga, breath-work, and meditation into my coaching. This holistic approach, combining movement, mindfulness, out in nature, forms the core of my practice and empowers individuals to grow, transform, and achieve their goals.
My work extends beyond Europe through MyQuest, where I guide people on transformative journeys in Nepal and other destinations. These experiences merge adventure, self-discovery, and meaningful cultural connections, creating opportunities for profound personal growth.

I feel privileged to support individuals on their journey toward greater self-awareness, resilience, and connection—both within themselves and with the world around them