The Team At Zihfit
J. Ben Bourgeois
Proprietor, Co-Owner, ZihFit
J. Ben Bourgeois is a celebrated event producer renowned for his creative genius in orchestrating unforgettable experiences for elite clients including the Getty Museum and luxury brands like Gucci and Armani. Marked by decades of success as the owner and president of J. Ben Bourgeois Productions, Inc., Ben is also an avid art collector since 1988 with a collection that boasts the works of Damian Hirst, Robert Therrian, Gilbert & George, Larry Bell, Tim Hawkinson, Mary Course, Murakami, and Cindy Sherman, reflecting his discerning eye and deep appreciation for modern artistic expressions.
Embarking on a personal transformation around his 60th birthday, Ben shifted his focus towards fitness, longevity, and the holistic well-being that would later inspire the creation of ZihFit, a wellness retreat that merges his expertise in creating memorable experiences with his dedication to health and spiritual growth.
His affinity for Zihuatanejo, sparked by its cultural richness and the community's authentic lifestyle, led him to not only build a home but also establish a sanctuary that reflects his journey towards wellness. ZihFit stands as a testament to Ben’s commitment to providing a space for others to explore personal growth and connection, set against the backdrop of Zihuatanejo’s serene landscapes and spiritual heritage.
Eduardo Penteado
Co-Owner and Program Director, ZihFit
Eduardo Penteado, a Brazilian-American who has seamlessly blended his multicultural background and diverse professional experiences into a rich tapestry of expertise in fitness and wellness, now serves as the Program Director of ZihFit in Mexico. Starting his career with a degree in International Business in Brazil, Eduardo ventured to the United States to expand his horizons, delving into language studies in Boston and the IT sector in Florida, before following his early dream of modeling in California. It was there, in 2018, he embraced a fervent dedication to fitness, setting the stage for his future in wellness.
At ZihFit, Eduardo leverages over 15 years of experience to offer a holistic wellness program that intertwines physical fitness, nutritional guidance, and spiritual growth, deeply influenced by the local culture and practices. Under his leadership, ZihFit incorporates unique elements such as collaboration with local nutritionists and shamans, introducing guests to the region’s rituals and traditions. This approach not only promotes physical well-being but also facilitates a profound spiritual and mental journey for each visitor.
Eduardo's philosophy centers on creating personalized, sustainable lifestyle changes that honor the balance between body, mind, and spirit, ensuring that the essence of ZihFit transcends conventional fitness retreats by nurturing a deeper, more meaningful connection with oneself and the natural world.
Pilar Madrazo
Yoga & Meditation Guide
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With years of experience guiding individuals on their journeys toward self-awareness and balance, Pilar Madrazo brings a unique blend of expertise in yoga and meditation, complemented by a warm and compassionate teaching style. Her sessions are thoughtfully crafted to reflect the serene beauty of Zihuatanejo, often incorporating the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean to inspire mindfulness and inner harmony.
Pilar’s approach is inclusive and adaptive, designed to empower participants of all levels—from beginners to seasoned practitioners—to deepen their practice and connect with their inner selves. Through her guidance, she creates a nurturing space where guests can cultivate physical strength, mental clarity, and emotional well-being, leaving them feeling refreshed and inspired.
Pilar’s dedication to holistic wellness and her ability to create transformative experiences make her an essential part of the ZihFit retreat, helping guests achieve a profound sense of balance and renewal.
Lupita - Shama
Shaman
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Lupita, our revered shaman, is a proud guardian of her ancestors’ legacies. Hailing from an indigenous family, she carries the profound responsibility of preserving and sharing her cultural heritage. At ZihFit, Lupita brings the sacred arts and the transformative Temazcal ceremony to life. These ceremonies are far more than rituals—they are deeply healing experiences designed to reconnect our guests with the Earth’s ancient wisdom and energy. Through her work, Lupita ensures that the spirit of her ancestors continues to thrive, offering a bridge to the past and a path to renewal for all who participate.
Adriana Gonzalez
Blue Mind Therapy
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Adriana Gonzalez, a talented musician, singer, and sound healer, guides our transformative Floating Sound Bath Healing Ceremony, an immersive experience rooted in the principles of Blue Mind Therapy. Against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, guests float in an infinity pool, enveloped by the soothing embrace of water, the gentle whisper of palm trees, the rhythmic melody of ocean waves, and the healing vibrations of sound.
Adriana shares, “The fusion of water and sound creates a profound pathway for transformation and healing.” Through her artistry and expertise, participants are able to release physical tension, reconnect with their inner selves, and experience deep emotional clarity. Adriana’s work offers a unique opportunity to harmonize mind, body, and spirit in a serene and unforgettable setting
Sara Nacach
Spiritual sound healer
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Sara is a renowned spiritual sound healer, bringing the ancient Mexican practice of medicinal chanting to the core of ZihFit’s transformative healing experiences. With a unique fusion of live music and resonant instruments, she creates a powerful symphony that reaches the most profound aspects of the human spirit. Her work invites profound self-exploration and healing, offering a sacred space for individuals to reconnect with their inner selves and embrace holistic well-being.
Verboonen
Nutritionist
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Verboonen is a passionate and accomplished nutritionist, proudly calling Zihuatanejo home. With a Bachelor’s degree in Human Nutrition and a Master’s in Clinical Nutrition, she has dedicated her career to transforming lives through mindful eating and holistic health. Sara specializes in diabetes education, weight management, and detoxification, empowering individuals to thrive and embrace vibrant, fulfilling lives—even while managing chronic conditions.
Beyond her clinical practice, Sara is a dedicated educator, teaching nutrition at the undergraduate level. She believes that sharing knowledge is not only the best way to learn but also a profound opportunity to inspire future generations of health professionals.
