Isabella Vieira is an advocate for the rich heritage of the Huni Kuin people, a group deeply connected to their land and culture. Living in Monaco, she promotes their traditions and shares her passion for traditional healing. Inspired by her background, Isabella has created a unique approach to wellness.
Isabella’s father, a naturopath with deep ancestral wisdom, shared valuable knowledge with his daughter throughout her life, encouraging her interest in holistic therapy. From her family, she learned the secrets of healing practices that draw inspiration from the Amazon rainforest. “The trees, leaves, and plants of the Amazon are filled with amazing healing qualities,” she explains warmly. Isabella comes from a family with a strong shamanic lineage, further enriched by her connection to the spiritual leader of the Huni Kuin people, Chief Ninawa, who continues to guide her on this path.
Before settling in Monaco, Isabella spent time in Corsica, working with elite athletes and helping them reconnect with nature through her holistic methods. Her wellness line, developed with partners in France, used local practices and resources. “I’ve always believed that my work should honour the land and its gifts,” she shares. “That’s why I’m excited to announce that the next line will be produced entirely in the Amazon using the rich resources from the forest itself.”
The idea for Isabella’s documentary, “Nawa Sia – The Secrets of Amazonia,” came to her in dreams. “I often have strong visions that guide my path,” she says. “The forest speaks to me, and I feel a deep responsibility to share its stories.”
When Isabella and her production team travelled to the Amazon, they adopted a spontaneous and natural creative process—there was no written script. “We let the story reveal itself as we engaged with the environment,” Isabella explains. “It was a powerful experience, allowing the essence of the Amazon to flow through the film.”
Now, Isabella continues to blend her cultural knowledge into her work, guiding others toward wellness and harmony with nature.
HM: Can you share a bit about your background and how your upbringing has shaped your journey as a filmmaker and holistic therapist?
Isabella Vieira: Growing up in Brazil, I was surrounded by my family’s deep spiritual connection to the Amazon. My father was a naturopath with deep ancestral wisdom, and he shared his healing knowledge with me, as did my grandparents. They taught me a deep understanding of the earth’s healing gifts, which has shaped my approach to wellness and storytelling.
HM: What inspired you to move to Monaco, and how has living here influenced your work and personal life?
Isabella: I moved to Monaco to connect with my many clients here. Initially, I found it challenging to be away from nature, but I soon realized the importance of bringing that connection to this beautiful place. I wanted to create a space where wellness and nature could coexist, so I opened my holistic spa and began offering therapies that honour my roots.
HM: Your documentary, “Nawa Sia – The Secrets of Amazonia,” is incredibly powerful. What led you to create this film, and how did your connection with the Huni Kuin people shape its message?
Isabella: This documentary reflects my commitment to sharing the wisdom of the Huni Kuin people. The inspiration came to me in dreams, where I felt a strong calling to convey the importance of the Amazon. My relationship with the Huni Kuin people shaped every aspect of the film, as I wanted to honour their culture and the unique bond they have with the forest.
HM: While filming in the Amazon rainforest, were there any memorable experiences or challenges that stood out to you?
Isabella: Yes, every moment in the Amazon was memorable. We approached the filming process without a written script, allowing the story to develop naturally. It was beautiful to connect with the landscape and trust our instincts—letting the forest guide us.
HM: How does your holistic approach to wellness tie into your filmmaking and the themes you explore in your documentary?
Isabella: My holistic approach is all about finding balance and harmony. In both my therapy practice and filmmaking, I encourage people to reconnect with their inner selves and nature. “Nawa Sia” reflects this philosophy, inviting viewers to reflect on their own relationships with the environment.
HM: You have a wellness line that includes unique products from the Amazon. What makes these products special, and how do they reflect your holistic philosophy?
Isabella: My wellness products are crafted from the amazing gifts sourced from the Amazon. My first line was developed in collaboration with partners in France, using local forest supplies. With the next line, I’m excited that we’ll use materials sourced directly from the Amazon rainforest, reflecting the healing qualities of the forest while honouring indigenous knowledge.
HM: For readers in Monaco interested in your wellness line, where can they find your products?
Isabella: While our first line sold out quickly, I am hard at work on a new line produced entirely in the Amazon. These will be available online and will feature partnerships with local artisans to ensure we honour their knowledge and the land.
HM: What do you hope viewers will take away from “Nawa Sia,” particularly regarding the importance of the Amazon and its indigenous cultures?
Isabella: I hope that viewers develop a deeper appreciation for the Amazon and its indigenous cultures. It’s important to understand our interconnectedness with nature and the significance of protecting these sacred lands for future generations.
HM: Can you talk about any specific messages your documentary delivers about our connection to nature and the need for its protection?
Isabella: “Nawa Sia” highlights that we are stewards of the earth. By honouring our connection to nature and supporting indigenous communities, we can create a more sustainable future. The film serves as a reminder that nature has incredible wisdom and healing potential.
HM: Looking ahead, do you have any exciting projects or goals you’d like to share with us?
Isabella: Yes, I’m thrilled about expanding my wellness line and continuing to work closely with indigenous communities in the Amazon. My mission is to ensure that every collaboration not only respects but helps preserve their rich cultural heritage while promoting truly sustainable practices.
Right now, I’m working hand in hand with Chief Ninawa to bring a powerful vision to life: the creation of the very first university dedicated to the transmission of ancestral Huni Kuin knowledge. This isn’t just a school—it’s a living sanctuary of wisdom, where elders become teachers and ancient practices are passed on to the next generations.
We’re also launching an exciting audiovisual training program designed specifically for the youth of the Huni Kuin community. Through this initiative, they’ll gain the tools and skills to become storytellers, filmmakers, and cultural guardians—able to share their worldview with the world, through their own voice and lens. It’s about empowerment, cultural pride, and giving them the stage on which they deserve to shine.
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Isabella Vieira’s journey reflects a unique blend of traditional wisdom, holistic healing, and respect for nature. Through her documentary “Nawa Sia – The Secrets of Amazonia,” which had its first screening in Monaco, she highlights the beauty and importance of indigenous cultures and their connection to the environment. As her wellness line focuses on sustainable production in the Amazon, Isabella inspires others to reconnect with nature and embrace its healing power. Her documentary offers a transformative experience for those seeking harmony with themselves and the natural world.
