Meet Karina Stewart: Co-Founder of Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary

From the age of 14, when she began meditating and exploring Asian spiritual philosophies, her heart was opened to an existence of devotion and self-discovery. She later went to Princeton University and completed a B.A. in Cultural Anthropology with a focus on Asian religions. Karina’s fascination with the East and passion for health led her to California’s Yo San University, where she gained a Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine followed by internships in Japan and China. Her training extends to structural therapies such as Hellerwork and Cranial-Sacral Manipulation, as well as yoga and Taoist philosophy and practices.

Prior to Kamalaya, Karina founded a health centre in Kathmandu, Nepal, where for seven years she practiced Oriental Medicine and produced a range of Chinese herbal elixirs. Following this period she collaborated on a research project in California to develop and test medical detoxification protocols combining modern medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Naturopathy. Karina also designed and directed medical detoxification programs at the Hall Centre, an integrative medical centre in California, and facilitated ‘Awakening’ retreats in several cities throughout the US, which focused on cellular detoxification and purification practices from both Eastern and Western traditions.

In 2000, after conceiving and growing for many years the vision that would become Kamalaya, Karina and her husband John Stewart embarked on the journey of the creation of Kamalaya in Thailand. Working together with passion and complimentary contributions, Karina and John founded what would years later become Kamalaya – Koh Samui, a profound expression of their life journeys and deep commitment to service and positive contribution.

You will have a unique opportunity to meet Karina and work with her closely this August. She will be leading 'Awaken Your Essence' retreat from 22 - 30 August 2020. Karina will guide you to release negative emotions, experiences and thought patterns that hinder your personal flourishing and inspire you to cultivate your full potential with a refreshed experience. For more information click here.