About me

Helping international schools and expats thrive.

Hi, I'm Kirsten Pontius.

International Wellbeing specialist and Certified Integrative Health Coach

My experience and qualifications in holistic health and nutrition, yoga, mindfulness and stress, and behavioral sciences prepare me for supporting the unique challenges of living life abroad.

I'm deeply committed to helping exhausted expats who often neglect their own wellbeing. I have a passion for aiding international schools that work tirelessly to bolster the health of their community but may fall short due to limited perspectives and a lack of holistic strategies.

When you turn the challenges of international life into wellbeing wins, life abroad can be amazing!

I find great joy in collaborating with individuals, groups, and international schools, introducing innovative wellbeing strategies that bring about tangible, lasting change. My approach revolves around real-life solutions and honest feedback, aiming to reshape the wellbeing narrative with a focus on sustainable, impactful transformation.

I've traveled across 30 countries and set up camp in 6 different places. My travels have completely shaped how I see what it takes for folks to really flourish. Experiencing life in all sorts of cultures has opened my eyes to the unique struggles people deal with, as they live and travel around the world. And while the challenges are unique, the opportunity for personal growth and health are immense!

Let’s work together to initiate wellbeing changes that truly make a difference.

Professional Collaborations

  • Association of International Schools in Africa (AISA)

  • International School Counselors Association (ISCA)

  • International Community School of Addis Ababa

  • International Community School of Abidjan

  • The American International School of Vilnius

  • The US Embassy, Bucharest

  • The Malaysian Embassy, Phnom Penh

  • Military Family Services Europe

  • The US Embassy, Abidjan

  • IPS Hilversum, Netherlands

  • Baldwin International School of Puerto Rico

  • International School of Phnom Penh

  • American International School of Bucharest

  • New School, Tbilisi, Georgia

  • Central & Eastern European Schools Association (CEESA)

Professional Training

    • Certified Integrative Health Coach promoting holistic wellbeing.

    • Yoga Alliance Teacher Certification, bringing the perfect balance of mind and body.

    • Certification in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction to assist people with stress, anxiety, depression, and overwhelm.

    • Approved by the International Association for Health Coaches (IAHC), ensuring high standards in the work I do.

    • Yale School of Public Health studies in behavioral science.

    • Bachelor's in Communications and Master's in Not-for-Profit Administration.

    • Human Resources, Employee Experience coursework.

    • Learn More

    • Lived around the world on five continents, and have a solid grasp on connecting with people from all walks of life.

    • Over 20 years of experience in Communications, including at 5 international schools in 4 different countries.

    • On a mission to support the health of the expat community for nearly 15 years.

    • Both children born and raised third culture kids.

    • Continual studies to keep up my commitment to staying ahead of the game with all the latest and greatest evidence-based practices.