We are exploring connecting in motion Nature

Grounded in this core, we support people and teams on their journey of growth—fostering connection with themselves, with each other, and with the greater ecosystem we are all part of.

The Survital Promise

These promises capture the essence of who we are and how we work. They guide the way we design and deliver our programs, and the way we connect with people, teams, and nature.

Nature as Guide and Partner: Professional coaches, guides, and experts work with nature as our guiding inspiration—and as an equal partner.

Accessible Offerings: From short workshops to multi-day expeditions—with flexible options when a longer journey isn’t feasible or affordable.

We bring our whole selves: We all bring our talents, stories and vulnerability. That’s how genuine connection unfolds.

Experiential Learning: Rooted in experiential learning, biomimicry, and Theory U—so new insights don’t just inspire but translate into lasting behavior change.

The Power of Simplicity: No unnecessary luxury. No overstuffed, rigid schedules. The most valuable insights often emerge along the side paths and in open spaces.

Giving More Than We Take: We pay a “guide fee” to nature that supports rewilding projects and ensures a positive local contribution.

Movement and Fun: Whenever possible, we get outside—keeping the vital spark alive. Development, experimentation, and laughter often go hand in hand.

Unique Experiences: We work with the elements—fire, water, air, and earth—through navigation, solo time, hikes, and immersive simulations. We blend learning with adventure, creating space for reflection and growth.

Healthy Growth: We foster growth in an ecological way—not always higher, faster, or more, but through grounded choices that stay in balance with nature and stand the test of time.

Good Coffee (or Tea): We enjoy good coffee—or tea—in the most beautiful places.

Where it began

Michelle Hendrikx–van der Linden is the driving force behind SURVITAL. With more than fifteen years of experience in leadership development and as a certified coach, she has specialized in vitality and energy management. She believes that true transformation takes place outdoors—beyond the four walls and systems where beliefs often get stuck. As a trained wilderness guide, she is uniquely equipped to design and lead programs where leadership, vitality, and nature come together.

Alongside her work as a facilitator and coach, she has consciously chosen several times to embark on extended adventures with her husband and their two children. She started a social coffee business in Guatemala, traversed Patagonia in a Land Cruiser with rooftop tent, and lived in a community in Canada—always choosing the dirt roads, both literal and metaphorical. Along the way she developed skills in navigating remote landscapes, building communities, and creating space for connection and growth. First with a child on her back, then holding small hands, and now at a respectful distance behind.

These experiences shaped her conviction that leadership and vitality grow strongest when rooted in nature.
Out of that conviction, Survital was born.

Certified Coach Wilderness Guide (WG1) Leadership Development Facilitation

Human Movement Sciences Health Policy, Economics & Management

Insights Discovery Vitality & Energy Management Adventurer

A hike or digital coffee with Michelle?
Let’s meet!

Survital framework

The Survital framework is rooted in Theory U and biomimicry, guided by the natural elements and the four core values of Survital. It provides the foundation for all our programs.