Our work is grounded in evidence-based science and built on the most current research in human optimisation, mental resilience, and healthspan. The Pausa Method synthesises insights from leading global specialists whose contributions have shaped the modern understanding of sleep, stress, cognition, metabolism, emotional health, and long-term performance.

We draw directly from the work of neuroscientists such as Dr. Matthew Walker (PhD) and Dr. Tara Swart Bieber (PhD), whose research illuminates the mechanisms behind sleep, cognitive load, and neuroplasticity. Our approach to longevity and metabolic health is informed by the clinical frameworks of Dr. Peter Attia (MD) and Dr. Rhonda Patrick (PhD), while our understanding of emotional well-being and brain health is influenced by psychiatrists including Dr. Daniel Amen (MD) and Dr. Robert Waldinger (MD), director of the world’s longest-running study on human flourishing. We also integrate evidence presented by Dr. Tim Spector (MD), whose epidemiological work reframes how nutrition and personalised biology shape long-term health.

At the foundation of Pausa lies an integrated three-pillar scientific framework: Neuroscience, Behavioural Science, and Clinical Mental Health.
Together, these disciplines inform every protocol we use - from circadian regulation and autonomic nervous system training to group-based psychological safety and long-term habit formation.

Our structure is also aligned with the World Health Organization (WHO) and World Psychiatric Association (WPA) frameworks on lifestyle medicine, which identify five core lifestyle pillars essential for health and mental well-being. These pillars form the backbone of the Pausa Circle, our 12-month integration program. Additionally, our organisational well-being philosophy is guided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Surgeon General’s Framework for Workplace Mental Health & Well-Being, emphasising prevention, community, and sustainable performance.

Pausa exists to translate this global body of scientific knowledge into a practical, structured method that supports leaders in operating with clarity, resilience, and long-term health - before burnout takes hold.

About us

Pausa was born from a personal story.

For over a decade, Yaroslav Derevianko built companies, led teams across Europe, and carried the weight that every founder knows too well - constant pressure, endless decisions, the quiet responsibility of holding everything together. From the outside it looked like success. Inside, it felt like operating at the edge.

Yaroslav learned something the hard way: leaders rarely burn out because they are weak - they burn out because they are responsible. Because they care. Because they keep going long after the system gives warning signs.

Pausa began as his attempt to solve a problem he saw in himself and in others:

How do you stay clear, strong, and mentally grounded before stress becomes damage?

To find the answer, he brought together a team of mental wellbeing experts, clinical psychologists, nutritionists, and behavioural scientists. What united them was a simple belief: proactive approach is smarter than recovery.

Personal story

Today, Pausa delivers a science-based, two-phases solution: nature-immersive 3-day Reset + 12-month integration program designed for leaders who want to protect their sharpest asset - their mind - long before it reaches overload. Our approach combines environmental neuroscience, micro-habit formation, and deep rest, transforming clarity and resilience into a reproducible system.

Zuzanna
Pausa Reset Facilitator
HR & Wellbeing Expert

Our Team

João
Pausa Mindfulness Guide

Neuroscience Researcher

Maria
Pausa Meditation & Yoga Guide
Plant Medicine Guide

Andrii
Pausa Sports Guide
Kettlebell Polish Champion

Martin
Pausa Nutrition Guide / Chef

Certified Holistic Health & Lifestyle Practitioner

Pilar
Pausa Location Guru
Architect / Creator of Tiny Cabins

Albert & Yaro
Pausa Co-founders

Felix
Pausa Resilience Guide

CEO and CTO at Wohnen im Alter Internet GmbH

• Andreas Jaritz & Sarah Posch
  People behind Emma Wanderer, a company focused on remote work, van life, and midterm housing.

• Goof Lukken
  Leisure & tourism strategist with 30+ years of industry experience. Senior lecturer at Breda University.

• Marijke Lap-Heijer
  Managing Partner MIG Inc. International hospitality strategist with deep expertise in brand, concept, and leadership development.

• Wilfred Kiekebelt
  Seasoned commercial leader with 20+ years in sales, marketing, and business transformation.

• Marco Moutinho
  Expert in Exercise Physiologist, Personal Training and Wellbeing Programs. Sports Director at Jerónimo Martins.

Pausa Strategic Advisors

Jumanji.studio is a global innovation group dedicated to building regenerative, mission-driven companies.

Jumanji.studio is guiding Pausa in becoming one of Portugal’s first steward-owned hospitality brands, ensuring our mission remains purpose-driven and independent over the long term.

Pausa Strategic Partners

Pillow is an AI-powered, lifestyle-first mental health platform that matches individuals with the therapeutic or healing approach best suited to their needs.

Pausa participants receive tailor-made post-program guidance through Pillow’s ecosystem of therapists, coaches and nature-based practices.

Unicorn Factory Lisbon is one of Portugal’s leading innovation hubs, supporting early-stage companies with mentorship, business development and strategic guidance.

Pausa is incubated within their ecosystem, benefiting from access to experienced mentors, strategic frameworks and a community of founders building impactful, human-centred ventures.