Lajja Mindy Reser
From Oregon to Mexico! My journey began in Portland (USA), where I studied business before Mexico became my new home. After training in Ayurveda, Massage Therapy, and Colon Therapy in Florida for 3 years, I traveled to India for Yoga Teacher Training, where the call came to go to Mexico and get started. On the way, I met my spiritual teacher, Paramahansa Vishwananda. Inspired to share this wisdom, I returned to Mexico in 2005 and Villa Ananda was found, opening its doors in 2008. Blessed with two beautiful children born in the Villa, I continue to share my passions with every guest.
Dr. Diego Navarro
A native of Guadalajara, Mexico, I earned my General Medicine degree in 2007, followed by advanced certifications in Neural Therapy, Anti-Aging, Regenerative Medicine, Ozone Therapy, and Cellular Therapy. My holistic journey led me to private practice in Sayulita and Punta Mita, and in 2018, I founded Zanno.Health Integrative Medicine, a group of M.D.s specializing in holistic healing. In 2021, I became the lead M.D. of the Detox and Rejuvenating Program at Villa Ananda, working closely with patients in a residential setting. Outside of medicine, I enjoy watersports, sailing, and raising my son, my greatest reward.
Sheri Laine
As a Licensed Acupuncturist, classically trained Herbalist, Nutritionist and Recovery Specialist, I bring over 40 years of experience in Oriental Medicine and holistic healing. My focus is on lifestyle medicine, cognitive enrichment, and guiding individuals toward balance, fitness, and happiness. I integrate Oriental Medical techniques with meditation, homeopathy, Bach flowers, and Feng Shui. An author and speaker, my books, The EnerQi Connection series, explore cultivating natural energy and positive living. Based in Southern California, I continue to support clients through my private clinic, Eastern Medical Arts.
Klaudia Engstler
Originally from Austria, I spent over 15 years traveling across five continents, exploring indigenous cultures, shamanism, and healing techniques. My training includes Swedish Massage, Nuad Thai Massage, Anma-Shiatsu, Reiki, Reflexology, Aromatherapy, and Hot Stone Therapy. I also integrate natural elements like crystals, herbs, and flowers into my healing practice. My spiritual journey has deepened through meditation, Chi-Kung, Bach Flower Remedies, and studying The Flower of Life with Drunvalo Melchizedek. In 2010, I found a life partner and we have developed a unique 4 Hands Healing Massage.
Saúl Rodríguez Astrologer
Born in Mexico City, I began exploring spiritual paths like yoga, tai-chi, meditation and metaphysics at age 13. Two years later, my grandmother revealed I was the heir to our family healers’ lineage. After studying Massage Therapy and Psychology, I combined these tools to develop a Course of Therapeutic Massage in 1992, later taught to psychologists of the Red Cross. I completed studies in Psyche-Body Therapy and Characterology, and Transpersonal Psychotherapy. My focus has since been on emotional release and spiritual healing through traditional Holistic Mexican Massage. I partnered with my life companion to create the 4 Hands Healing Massage.
Gabriela Güereña
As a Puerto Vallarta native, I spend 6 months each year traveling the world to study with diverse teachers and cultures, applying this wisdom to my lifelong passion for healing. In 2005, I earned my degree in TCM from The Open International University for Complementary Medicines, studying under Master Luong Minh Dang for 4 years in the USA. My certifications include Chinese massage, Shiatsu Therapy, acupuncture, KCR (Kinetic Chain Release), hypnosis and past life regression therapy, medical radionics, and Bach Flowers. These tools help me heal blockages, traumas, and addictions through a balancing bodywork treatment. I treasure time with my sons and granddaughter.
Andrea Arriaga
A native of Ventura, California, my journey began with a BA in Biological Anthropology at UC San Diego, where I discovered yoga. Further studies in ecology and anthropology took me to Thailand and the University of Hawaii, where I researched connections between ecological, spiritual, and social health. My healing arts certifications include Pilates, Thai Massage, Meditation, Breathwork, and Nutrition, alongside a 10-year apprenticeship with Shadow Yoga instructor Matt Pesendian. In Mexico, I spent over a decade teaching Yoga and Lifestyle Empowerment. Now based in Ventura after being blessed with a boy, I teach at various studios while continuing to support Villa Ananda.
Karuna DiLibero
Born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island, I earned a Bachelor’s degree at the University of Oregon before opening a yoga studio in Bend, Oregon. My journey led me to India, where I immersed myself in Yogic and Vedic studies, Ashtanga Yoga, Sanskrit, and Reiki healing. Returning to the U.S., I expanded my teaching to include Therapeutic, Trauma-Informed, and Pre/Post Natal Yoga. After healing from trauma through Ayurveda, I studied at the Ayurvedic Institute, SAMA, and Maharani Academy. Now, I live and travel in my RV while building a sustainable home for PranaVeda Wellness in Oaxaca, Mexico, and feeling blessed to be part of Villa Ananda family.
Gyana Bayes
After earning my nursing degree from NYU in 1968, I traveled to India and was initiated into Ashtanga and Vedanta Yoga by a Yoga Master in Rishikesh. For seven years, I immersed myself in the eight limbs of Yoga and served my Guru and the ashram. Returning to the U.S. in 1977, I balanced my spiritual practice with a nursing career, focusing on creating healing environments within the healthcare system. In 2016, I returned to India to reconnect with my spiritual path and my Guru. Inspired by the Villa during a visit, I answered the call to support their vision. Now, I live between the Villa and northern California supporting my family in both places.
Dr. Elise Dubois
As a Canadian Chiropractor, I spent 8 years at the Sanoviv Medical Institute in Baja California, where I led the Structural Medicine Department and oversaw chiropractic, fitness, and spa services. Certified in Functional Medicine and Applied Kinesiology, I specialize in identifying imbalances in the body by addressing structural, emotional, nutritional, and energetic components. I’m also certified in Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET) and Family Constellation Therapy. Since relocating to Puerto Vallarta in 2016, I’ve developed a private practice while collaborating with select institutions, including Villa Ananda.
Terrie Sheik
I’ve had the privilege of knowing Lajja since childhood, and in 2010, I attended a “Heart to Core Retreat” here that built a deeper foundation of peace and has helped me navigate some of my life’s biggest challenges. With a career in customer service, hospitality, and event coordination, I’ve served as a Principal’s Assistant, Office Manager, and head cheerleading coach at a public high school in Oregon. I’ve also worked as a wedding coordinator, helping create magical, unforgettable events. Joining the Villa’s incredible team, I’m excited to support our guests and ensure their experience is truly exceptional.
Mónica Orozco
With over 22 years of experience in 5-star spas and hotels across Mexico, Bermuda, London, Italy, Thailand, and Bali, Monica brings a wealth of global expertise. Accredited by TMC School Chiang Mai and trained in leading Thai institutions, she specializes in abdominal detoxification, clinical massage, and authentic Balinese techniques. Her passion for abdominal therapies led her to develop her own method with remarkable results. Monica’s training includes visceral osteopathy and Mayan massage under Dr. Rosita Arvigo. Fluent in Spanish, English, and Italian, she also teaches massage courses, sharing her knowledge worldwide.
Thank you for the healing. I came here to heal a part of my physical self but leave here healed in many selves; mentally, emotionally and spiritually.