Our Team

Melissa Stonehill-Caiyem 

Melissa Stonehill Caiyem is a true Renaissance woman in the realm of Healing Arts, boasting a rich tapestry of expertise ranging from Health and Fitness to Holistic Nutrition, and Event Production in the bustling landscapes of NYC and L.A. With over two decades of experience orchestrating both grandiose and intimate gatherings, Melissa's journey has led her to helm Healing Wheel Holistic & Retreats, LLC. She has also opened up the Wellness Travel division for The Island Life Travel Agency, where she seamlessly blends her diverse skill set into transformative wellness travel experiences.

Melissa is currently spearheading change in the Wellness Retreat Industry, guiding and mentoring other Retreat Leaders and Entrepreneurs towards a lower risk and sustainable business model.

Her holistic voyage began with a deep dive into the realm of Holistic Wellness, with a profound focus on the transformative power of Nutrition – viewing FOOD AS MEDICINE. As the CEO of Healing Wheel Retreats, LLC, Melissa wears many hats, including Certified Complementary Alternative Health Practitioner, Sports Nutritionist, Wellness Retreat Director, Travel Agent for Island Life Travel Agency-Wellness Division, Published Author., and Producer of Medicine Music Project and local community festivals.

Throughout her illustrious career, Melissa has left an indelible mark on the health and fitness landscapes of major metropolises, guiding individuals through a myriad of health challenges, from weight loss to cancer recovery, and everything in between. Her approach is rooted in fostering a joyful and nourishing relationship with food and lifestyle choices, crafting sustainable daily practices that resonate on a deeply personal level.

Melissa's journey has been shaped by luminaries in their respective fields, including the legendary Jack Lalanne, who mentored her in the intricacies of human functional movement and nutrition. She honed her craft further at Cal Arts and the Kushi Institute, delving into Technical Theater, Stage Management, Dance, and Macrobiotic eating under the tutelage of Mishio and Avlene Kushi.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Melissa finds fulfillment in her roles as a mother of four, grandmother, wife, dog rescuer, and dog mom, sister, daughter, and friend – with her greatest pride lying in the nurturing of her family.

Melissa's offerings are as diverse as her skill set, ranging from Wellness Evaluation and Life Coaching to Reiki, Intuitive Nutrition Scans, Meditation Guide, Vegan Catering, Meal Planning, and Lab Testing. As the CEO of Healing Wheel Holistic and Retreats, LLC, she continues to inspire and empower individuals on their journey to holistic well-being.

Russ Crouch, CPT

Meet Russ, the Co-Founder and Vice President of Healing Wheel Holistic & Retreats. With credentials from NASM as a Certified Personal Trainer and a background as a Qi Gong/Mobility Instructor, and Meditation/Breathwork Guide, Russ brings a unique blend of expertise to our team.

As a Plant-Based Organic Chef, Russ not only nourishes bodies but also nurtures souls through the power of wholesome, mindful eating. Additionally, he's a talented singer/songwriter, and musician, contributing his skills to the Medicine Music Project.

Russ's journey to holistic wellness is deeply personal. Following a traumatic car accident, he embarked on a path of self-rehabilitation through Qi Gong and Meditation. Through years of dedicated practice, Russ not only healed himself but also developed his own Qi Gong and Meditation routine. In 2023, he took his expertise to new heights by selling his program to a mid-sized company in Colorado, marking a significant milestone in his healing journey.

As a co-author of the "Daily Practices: A Mindfulness Companion" book and the Vice President of Healing Wheel Holistic and Retreats, Russ continues to inspire others with his story and expertise. His innovative mobility program, featured in "Daily Practices," reflects his commitment to sharing the transformative power of holistic practices with the world.

Joshua Caiyem,ONC, MSN, BSN,RN

Co-Founder of Healing Wheel LLC, Music Director, ONC, MSN, BSN

We are incredibly fortunate to welcome Joshua "Shua" Caiyem, ONC, MSN, BSN, to our team. With Shua's expertise and compassionate care, we have the privilege to extend a heartfelt invitation to a cancer survivor on each of our retreats. This initiative underscores our commitment to providing a nurturing environment focused on healing and embracing the joy of life. Shua's presence enriches our retreats, ensuring that every participant experiences the transformative power of holistic wellness.

Healing Wheel Affiliates

Julie Speetjens  B.Sc, RMT, KRMT, ARP, LRM, CMRM

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Registered Karuna Reiki Master Teacher

Certified Medical Reiki Master
Angelic Reiki Practitioner

Lightarian Reiki Master

Psychic Medium

www.soaringheartenergies.com

(719)660-7924