Our story

Mind ‘N’ Soul Retreat began with a simple belief: everyone deserves time to step away from the pressures of everyday life and focus on their own wellbeing.

Inspired by our own personal journeys and our shared passion for health, movement and mindfulness, we created a retreat that brings together gentle activity, relaxation and genuine hospitality in the beautiful surroundings of Northern Cyprus.

Every retreat is personally hosted by us, and we’re delighted to share this experience with you.

Adile

Co-Founder & Retreat Host

I was born in London to Turkish Cypriot parents and grew up during the vibrant 1970s and 1980s. Every summer, I looked forward to spending time with my grandparents and extended family in the beautiful surroundings of Northern Cyprus. Those holidays created a lifelong connection with the island and the peaceful way of life that has always felt like home.

After beginning my career in the 1990s, I went on to build a successful business and in 2005, became a company director. While my career was rewarding, my greatest challenge came much earlier than I expected.

Almost 30 years ago, at just 28 years old, I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, a chronic condition that was still relatively unknown at the time. After seeing several specialists, I was often told that the pain was “all in my mind”. It was both frustrating and disheartening.

Everything changed when a therapist explained that, without regular stretching and Pilates, my condition could have life-changing consequences. That conversation became the turning point in my life.

For more than ten years, I’ve been committed to my own wellness journey. Pilates has played a central role in improving my strength, mobility and overall wellbeing, while becoming more mindful of my nutrition and lifestyle has transformed the way I feel every day.

Today, I find my greatest happiness in the simple things: warm sunshine, peaceful surroundings, gentle movement and taking time to care for both body and mind.

For me, there is no better place to experience all of that than Northern Cyprus, and it’s a privilege to share that experience with every guest who joins us at Mind ‘N’ Soul Retreat.

Emma

Emma

Co-Founder & Retreat Host

Growing up, sport and keeping active were a big part of my life. As the years passed, however, family, raising children, work and the demands of everyday life gradually took priority over my own wellbeing.

In 2005, my family and I made the exciting decision to move to the beautiful island of Northern Cyprus. Together with my husband, I now run a successful business within the hospitality industry, where we enjoy welcoming guests and organising special events throughout the year. Whenever possible, we’re also proud to support local charities by helping to organise fundraising events that bring people together for a good cause.

Like so many people, I eventually realised that self-care had quietly slipped to the bottom of my list. The combination of a demanding workload, raising teenage daughters and navigating perimenopause took its toll, leaving little time to focus on myself.

That realisation became the turning point. I began making time for my own wellbeing, learning to restore balance between my body, mind and soul. Through gentle exercise, mindfulness and embracing a healthier lifestyle, I discovered renewed confidence, reduced stress and a greater appreciation for the importance of looking after myself.

Living in the peaceful surroundings of Northern Cyprus has been a constant source of inspiration. It has reminded me how powerful it can be to slow down, reconnect with nature and simply enjoy life’s quieter moments.

It is a privilege to welcome guests to the island I now proudly call home. Together with Adile, I look forward to sharing its warmth, beauty and hospitality, while helping you leave Mind ‘N’ Soul Retreat feeling relaxed, refreshed and truly cared for.

Meet our wellness team

We’re delighted to work alongside a carefully selected team of experienced wellness professionals who share our passion for helping people feel healthier, happier and more balanced.

Having experienced their teaching first-hand, we know the knowledge, encouragement and genuine care they bring to every class and workshop. Together, we’re committed to creating a welcoming and supportive retreat where guests of all ages and abilities feel comfortable, inspired and cared for.

Suzie Pilates Instructor

Suzie

Yoga/Pilates/Sound Meditation.

With over 35 years of experience, Suzie has dedicated her career to helping people improve their strength, flexibility and overall wellbeing through movement and mindfulness.

Her journey has taken her from dance, aerobics and body sculpting to specialising in Vinyasa Flow, Grounding Yin, Aerial and Somatic Yoga. She also leads deeply relaxing guided meditation, singing bowl and gong meditation sessions, creating peaceful spaces where guests can unwind, reconnect and restore balance.

Suzie’s warm, encouraging approach helps people of all ages and abilities feel comfortable and supported, making every session an enjoyable and uplifting part of the Mind ‘N’ Soul Retreat experience.

Vashti

Reiki Master.

Originally from London, Vashti has called Northern Cyprus home since 1999. What began as a summer teaching scuba diving soon became a new chapter in her life.

Spirituality has always been an important part of her journey, inspired from an early age by her father. During pregnancy, she experienced her first Reiki treatment and discovered the positive impact it had on her wellbeing. Although family life and running a successful wedding planning business kept her busy for many years, her passion for Reiki never faded.

In 2018, Vashti began her formal Reiki training, progressing through each level before qualifying as a Reiki Master. Two years later, she chose to leave the wedding industry and devote herself entirely to helping others through Reiki.

With her calm, caring nature, Vashti creates a peaceful and nurturing environment where guests can relax, restore their energy and enjoy a deeper sense of balance and wellbeing.

Supporting your wellness journey

Every Mind ‘N’ Soul Retreat in Northern Cyprus is unique, and from time to time we’re joined by carefully selected guest instructors and local specialists who bring their own knowledge, experience and expertise to the programme. This allows us to offer a varied and enriching retreat experience while ensuring every stay remains fresh, personal and thoughtfully tailored to our guests.

“Only I am in control of my life… I am truly in a fabulous place!” – Adile

Take control of your life, and we look forward to welcoming you to Mind ‘N’ Soul Retreat in Northern Cyprus.