The world of wellness has grown increasingly popular in recent years, as people become more interested in taking a holistic approach to their health and well-being.
We had the chance to chat with Kimberly Rose Kneier, who recently joined COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali as their Director of Wellness, bringing her expertise in herbal, acupuncture, and Chinese medicine to assist guests to achieve holistic wellness.
What's New Bali (WNB): Hi, Kimberly! So nice to meet you. Can you tell us a bit about your background in the wellness industry and how you came to be the Director of Wellness at COMO Shambhala Estate?
Kimberly Rose Kneier (KIM): I've been in the wellness industry for over 20 years, starting as an herbalist and natural medicine consultant before pursuing my master's in acupuncture and oriental medicine. I worked as a resident acupuncturist on cruise ships for about 4 years, witnessing firsthand the body's incredible ability to heal with regular acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary changes. After a friend encouraged me to apply, I got accepted and then moved to Thailand to work as the wellness manager for the famous Amanpuri! After more than a year, unfortunately, like many, I was let go due to the pandemic.
When the world was recovering, a friend shared a vacancy for the Director of Wellness position at a luxury resort in Bali, and I started in July 2021. I took a break to visit my family back in Hawaii and Canada in September 2022 whom I hadn't seen in a while, before I left Bali I met the Global Director of Wellness for the COMO Group and was thrilled to be offered the position of Director of Wellness for the COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali.
WNB: What drew you to Bali, and what do you enjoy most about living and working here?
KIM: Despite having traveled to over 60 countries, I found it difficult to choose a place to settle down, so I chose not to. Although I enjoyed living in Thailand, I've fallen in love with Bali. This island has a special magic that makes me feel at home. It's hard to explain, but it's a combination of genuine and loving people, rich culture, vibrant energy, breathtaking rice fields, majestic mountains, and spiritual ceremonies that make Bali so special to me.
WNB: Can you tell us about how you first became interested in studying herbal, acupuncture, and oriental medicine?
KIM: I guess you could say I was a bit of a hippy growing up! I was introduced to the world of herbal medicine through an ex-boyfriend whose family were herbalists and did my first herbal detox when I was 16. Intrigued by the healing power of plants, I started self-studying and learning the healing power of plants. I realized then that I wanted to pursue a career in medicine to help people in a more holistic way than just prescribing drugs or performing surgery. Don’t get me wrong, thank goodness we have certain drugs and can perform surgery, but I think these should be used and done as a last resort.
During my herbal medicine school practicum, a Chinese doctor encouraged me to study acupuncture. I doubted my ability as a non-Chinese practitioner at first, but I was proven wrong. Then in Maui, I finally began learning more and more about this incredible medicine, I couldn’t resist anymore. Acupuncture and oriental medicine I guess just felt like the natural next progression for me.
WNB: What is your favorite wellness practice or treatment, and why?
KIM: As you can probably tell by now, I love acupuncture, of course. I often treat myself and go for treatments from reputable practitioners when I can find them. But I’d have to say one of my all-time favorite wellness treatments is an Ayurveda treatment called Shirodhara. This involves the pouring of warm, herb-infused oil, over the third eye. For me, this treatment puts me in the void. It forces me to a place of deep mediation- I love it! It balances the pineal gland and always leaves me feeling blissful.
WNB: What do you think sets COMO Shambhala Estate apart from other wellness retreats and resorts?
KIM: Everything we offer here at COMO Shambhala Estate is truly exceptional. Firstly, the property itself is truly enchanting and one of the most magical places you will ever visit. From the moment you arrive, you can sense the energy of this special land. Our wellness cuisine is unparalleled, and I can confidently say it's the best I've tasted anywhere. Our treatments are simply exquisite, and our team members feel like long-lost families. Additionally, our guests have the privilege of accessing both Chinese and Ayurveda consultations on the property, a unique and remarkable service that allows them to achieve their wellness objectives and get the most out of their stay.
WNB: When creating wellness programs and experiences for guests, what kind of approach do you use?
KIM: All of our wellness program guests get a one-hour consultation with either myself or our Ayurveda Consultant. Because everyone is different with different wellness goals and needs, we tailor-make all of the programs for the individual. This is by far the best approach because what works for one person may not work for the next.
WNB: How do you plan to incorporate traditional Chinese medicine principles into the wellness programs and treatments at COMO Shambhala Estate?
KIM: Because Chinese medicine principles are based on nature and on restoring balance in the body, it lends itself exceedingly well to our integrated wellness program. I also provide guests, in their consultation, with an overview of the five elements of Chinese medicine and how they can relate this to their own health. I will oftentimes also treat wellness program guests with acupuncture, moxibustion, and/or cupping, depending on presenting symptoms and what the guest is looking to achieve. Furthermore, I teach two meridian stretches Qi Gong classes each week that all wellness program guests are encouraged to attend.
WNB: Can you talk about any particular challenges you have faced as an herbal practitioner, and how you overcame them?
KIM: I always find this very fascinating because before modern medicine, all of our medicine came in the form of plants, but many people are unsure about herbal medicine's efficacy and safety. I am constantly explaining to people that modern pharmacology is actually based on herbal medicines and other compounds found in nature. If anything, herbal medicine is so much safer compared to prescription medications. Yes, herbs are powerful medicines, but when taken for the right reason and in the right dose, they are much easier on the body and don’t come along with harsh side effects.
WNB: How do you see the wellness industry evolving in the next 5-10 years, and how do you plan to adapt to these changes?
KIM: I think we all need to get used to the idea that technology, in all areas of life, not only wellness, is here to stay. COMO Shambhala Estate remains at the forefront of wellness because we are always looking forward. As such, we will be offering different wellness technologies to be introduced in the coming year which is very exciting.
WNB: We can't wait to see the new wellness technologies coming to COMO Shambhala Estate! What advice would you give to someone who is looking to make positive changes in their health and lifestyle?
KIM: Keep it simple and stop taking advice from everyone on social media. I think there is so much information out there that it is easy to get overwhelmed. I would suggest finding a professional who you have researched and trust and don’t try to change too many things at once.
WNB: It's been fun chatting with you and thank you for sharing your insights. Can you share a favorite quote or mantra that you live by?
KIM: “When I let go of who I am, I become what I might be”, by Lao Tzu.
Every aspect of Kimberly's work reflects her commitment to individualized wellness experiences and her love for holistic healthcare. We hope this interview provided valuable insights and be an inspiration to incorporate holistic principles.