Meet Our Team of Inspirers

Certified Level 3 Pilates Mat work Instructor.

Certified Studio Equipment Instructor (Cadilac/reformer/spine corrector/chair).

Lara, a certified Level 3 Pilates Mat Work and Studio Equipment Instructor with over 14 years of teaching experience, is passionate about sharing her knowledge and expertise to support individuals on their personal wellness journeys.

Lara’s holistic approach to wellness involves working with individuals or small groups to explore classic Pilates, equipment Pilates, movement, and breathwork. By empowering people to gain a deeper understanding of their bodies, Lara aims to help them become the best versions of themselves, not only for everyday life but also for future endeavours.

Level 2 ETM group exercise instructor and Level 3 Mat Pilates Instructor.

Gavin, an accomplished actor and former dancer, has graced the West End and international stages, television, and film. He infuses his work with care, professionalism, and unwavering commitment.

Gavin loves to encourage people to enjoy classes, bringing a sense of life and enjoyment into the studio. Classes can be hard work, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be fun and enjoyable!

Gavin thrives on collaborating closely with individuals to help them achieve their fitness goals, particularly in areas such as alignment, core stability, mobility, and flexibility.

He eagerly anticipates the opportunity to welcome you to Cyprus, where he can offer you exceptional classes during this incredible holiday.

Qualified Level 2 Fitness Instructor and has a Level 3 Diploma in Matt Pilates.

Lee has worked for ‘Virgin Active’ Mayfair, ‘David Lloyd’, ‘Better Gyms’ and also for boutique gyms in London.

“As a Pilates instructor, I like to use the original format, teaching the foundations of Pilates. You’ll learn how to understand your body in correct alignment, and in time (with regular practice), you’ll start to balance out the muscles and align the body whilst developing a stronger core and becoming supple throughout. I will teach you how to strengthen, tone, and lengthen the body without the use of equipment.”

Lee also applies the physical knowledge he has of being classically trained and a working professional dancer for over 25 years.

Yoga/Pilates/Sound Meditation.

Suzie, a seasoned yoga instructor with 35 years of experience, has honed her craft through dance, aerobics, and body sculpting techniques influenced by HIIT and interval training. Suzie embarked on her yoga journey with Vinyasa Flow and completed Grounding Yin, Aerial, and Somatic yoga certifications. As a leader in Guided Meditations, Singing Bowls, and Gong Relaxations, Suzie guides her students on transformative journeys of mindfulness and self-discovery.

Reiki Master.

Vashti, born in London, has resided in Northern Cyprus since 1999. Initially, she visited for a summer contract teaching scuba diving. Her Indian father instilled spirituality in her life, but it wasn’t until she became pregnant that she experienced her first reiki session and learned self-hypnosis. Despite regular reiki sessions and exploring alternative therapies, her busy life as a mother and owner of a wedding planning business prevented her from pursuing reiki until 2018. She began with level one, then completed the second and third levels to become a Reiki Master. In 2020, Vashti decided to leave wedding planning and dedicate herself fully to Reiki.

Retreat Host and Representative

I was born in London and raised in the vibrant era of the 1970s and 1980s to Turkish Cypriot parents. During the summer school holidays, I cherished my time visiting my grandparents and family in the picturesque and sunny Northern Cyprus.

In the 1990s, I embarked on my professional journey. In 2005, I took on the responsibility of becoming a responsible business proprietor, which ultimately led me to become a director within a successful company to this day.

At the dawn of my dream career and at the young age of 28, I was diagnosed with a chronic condition called Fibromyalgia. It was uncommon during that time, and I had to consult multiple doctors in London. Frustratingly, despite expressing my pain, some consultants dismissed it, claiming it was all in my mind.

A therapist had warned me that if I didn’t engage in physical activities like stretching and Pilates, it could have life-altering consequences. That was the wake-up call I needed. It was time for a change!

I embarked on my Self-Wellness journey over nine years ago, and Pilates has been a pivotal component of it. My physical fitness levels have improved significantly, and I’ve become much more mindful of my diet, particularly now.

There’s nothing I relish more than basking in the warmth of sunshine, finding myself in serene and tranquil surroundings, and engaging in physical exercise that nourishes my body, mind, and soul.

I couldn’t think of a better place than Northern Cyprus!

Having spent my childhood and early adult life being very sporty, my married life, relationships, children, and work took over. In 2005, my family and I made the leap and immigrated to this beautiful part of the island, Northern Cyprus.

My husband and I are entrepreneurs in the hospitality sector and are always busy, running the day-to-day business and organising specialised events throughout the year, which we absolutely love!

However, over the years, self-care and love became last on my list of demands! Perimenopause, teenage girls, and a demanding workload took their toll!

Finally, my mindset has shifted, and I am now trying to balance my mind, body, and soul, finding harmony to recover my equilibrium.

As the wellness trend seems to be gaining popularity, I have unlocked my hidden potential, reduced stress and anxiety, built positive mental and body awareness, alignment, and coordination. Living in such a beautiful, tranquil place has inspired me to promote relaxation, establish new routines, and engage in self-development.

We invite you to share this beautiful island I call home. In doing so, we will ensure that you feel pampered, rested, and rejuvenated with us at Mind ’N’ Soul Retreat.