Our Story

In 2018, Benedetta decided to create a NPO to promote Yoga in the Belgian healthcare system. Convinced by the efficacy of complementary approaches, Sarah and Lieve embarked with her on this project.

YIH team: Benedetta (left), Lieve (middle) and Sarah (right).

TEAM

Benedetta is a pharmacist and researcher in public health.

benedetta schiavetti

Founder

I was as a researcher and consultant in supply management and quality of essential medicines for international organisations. I did a specialisation in pharmacological sciences and medical anthropology. These experiences broadened my view of the different social and cultural beliefs about diseases and care.

I’ve been practicing Haṭha Yoga for 15 years. Also, being aware of the limited scope of action of pharmacological treatments, my interest in integrative approaches grew over time. In my opinion, the healthcare system would be more effective with the integration of non-invasive, cost-saving and holistic approaches. As, for instance, Yoga and Yoga Therapy.

That’s why in 2018 I decided to found Yoga in Healthcare: to make yoga affordable and accessible for patients. How can you do that? Through the health institutions and by building a Belgian network of stakeholders. All of whom shares the vision of an integrated healthcare system.

Lieve is a general practitioner specialized in tropical medicine & public health.

Lieve Goeman

Co-founder

For many years, I worked as a physician in primary healthcare settings in Belgium as well as abroad. For instance, in Africa and Southeast Asia as part of health development programs. Thanks to my education and work experience, I gain a broad insight into different kinds of health systems worldwide, both at macro and micro levels. Hence, I strongly believe in the initiative to integrate Yoga and Yoga Therapy in the Belgian health system. Definitely, this approach can contribute to healthier and happier people. 

Overall, I learnt that, the access to conventional medicine and the control of the standard health determinants are not enough. For a human being to be healthy and happy more is needed, indeed. Starting by a shelter, peace, food and water. Additionally, people can gain great benefit from the availability of integrative therapies such as Yoga and Yoga Therapy.

Sarah is a general practitioner specialised in tropical medicine.

Sarah Swannet

Co-founder

I am a doctor and a mother. I graduated in 2003 and I worked for several years in Africa with Doctors without Borders. Nowadays, I’ve been working in different areas of primary healthcare medicine. I am still in contact with a particularly vulnerable population in a medical house in Brussels. Besides that, I also work in a center for HIV/STI screening and another one for vaccination of small children. I believe that Yoga is a useful contribution to conventional medicine practice, since not all can be cured with a ‘magic pill’ or intervention. 

Medicine is being challenged in this new era where a more holistic approach to the patient is key. I think that raising resilience and self-confidence through the ancient practice of Yoga should be made accessible to all.

Emily is a Yoga therapist and teacher, doula and public health specialist.

emily gold

Yoga and yoga therapy consultant

I was born in New York and I’ve been practicing Yoga since 2003. After completing my university degree in 2006, I travelled to Thailand where I discovered the joys of meditation. I truly believe that there is a Yoga practice out there for everyone. I weave between different yogic modalities to create practices and teachings that are gentle and accessible, focusing on acceptance, growth and healing. 

Faced with seizures from a benign brain tumor in 2008, I learned of the healing power of Yoga, turning to my regular practice as a relief for the physical and mental pain I was experiencing. This healing path led me to pursue Yoga teacher training, beginning in 2013 and I became a Yoga therapist in 2017. I am currently completing a Master’s Degree in Spiritual Psychology.

Veronica is a linguists and communications professional.

veronica voltolini

Communications and Administrative officer

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