At Naia, nutrition is more than just the meals we serve—it’s a philosophy of healing and balance. As the chef of this retreat, my journey with food has been one of both passion and necessity. Raised by a chef grandfather and an herbalist grandmother, I grew up surrounded by the knowledge of food’s medicinal power. Yet it wasn’t until life handed me my own health challenges that I truly came to understand the profound connection between nourishment and well-being.

Five years ago, despite my healthy diet, I began to suffer from severe hormonal imbalances. Countless treatments and consultations eventually led to a life-changing diagnosis: thyroid cancer. At just 24. Without further detail, I felt let down by life itself. How could this happen to me? But guess what.. sadly but true this can happen to anyone. We can’t control everything. After my diagnosis I faced surgeries, therapies, and treatments. But through it all, I began to see food in a new light, realizing that what we put into our bodies can be a powerful ally in healing and recovery—especially as a young woman now living without a thyroid (the database of all your hormones)

Now, as the chef at Naia, I’m here to share what I’ve learned. Nutrition for me begins with knowing where our food comes from. I grow much of what we serve right here in my kitchen garden, using organic, local, and biologically sustainable produce. While I cook a lot with vibrant, seasonal vegetables, my approach is not inherently vegan or vegetarian—though these options are always available. I believe diversity in our diet is essential to give our bodies the full range of nutrients they need to thrive.

But nourishment isn’t only about what we eat. How we eat, when we eat, and why we choose certain foods are all essential parts of the journey. For us women, understanding this relationship is especially powerful, as nutrition can profoundly impact our hormones and overall health.

At Naia, I want to help you rediscover food as a source of balance and vitality. Through every dish, you’ll experience how nature’s bounty can support, heal, and nourish you. This is more than just a meal; it’s a path back to yourself, supported by flavors, nutrients, and a gentle rhythm that aligns with the body’s natural flow.

Nourishment is Rooted in Nature