Nine years ago, Afke Reijenga (48) left her wild party lifestyle behind. Today, as a yoga teacher, she's happier than ever: "I let go of everything to rediscover myself."
Afke Reijenga rose to fame as a model and actress, starring in TV series like Baantjes and On the Way to Tomorrow. She thrived in Amsterdam's art and club scene for years until a turning point in 2009. Now a yoga instructor and chair of Because We Carry and Yogivism—organizations aiding people and animals—she lives with her partner in Amsterdam.
You loved partying, but now you're a yoga teacher. Why the change?
'I used drugs, smoked, and partied nonstop. I worked around the clock. I realized my choices were unhealthy, and life grew darker. One day, I decided: I don't want this anymore. My only option was to leave it all. I ended my relationship and moved from Amsterdam to Bali.'
A bold decision.
'Yes. That life no longer reflected my true self—I'd lost myself. Rediscovery meant releasing all fixed patterns. I urge everyone with the courage to start fresh—sans house, job, or relationship—to experience the freedom. In yoga, it's a 'spiritual striptease': shedding every layer.'
Read the full interview with Afke on page 22 in Santé's May issue.
Afke.org
Behind the scenes from Afke's photo shoot.
