Meet our Wellness Champions

Married with three sisters. I love personal growth, developing a positive mindset, and becoming better daily. At 27 I searched for guidance, Wholelife felt real, supportive, and helped me to grow deeply. I have learned to develop a positive daily routine including such as WholeLife’s Miracle Morning, mindfulness evenings, and value the community connection which is welcoming and lovely. The retreats, suppers, and mindful living clubs have also been so special, giving me space to explore new things and connect with others. WholeLife has helped me slow down and really listen to myself. It’s given me the tools to stay present during difficult moments, whether that’s through breathing, routine, or simply allowing myself to pause. This has resulted in better sleep and I am calmer in life. My words of inspiration: “Being different isn’t random, it’s your path to purpose.”

I am a busy professional and a parent, balancing work, family, health and personal growth. I love going for walks and gardening. I was feeling overwhelmed and low on energy, needing more balance and space. Mind&Body Flow classes, the Wellness Retreat in Montenegro and other wellness activities including the Mindful Living Club, have helped me slow down and grow into a new, calmer, stronger and more energised me. My words of inspiration: “Small everyday steps can truly change how you feel. Keep taking gentle steps forward, and trust that each one is quietly leading you to the results you’re hoping for”.

I'm 24 years old, living in Manchester. I love food, music, and my friends and family. I came to the retreat when I was 23 and in a place where I didn’t know who I was or feel connected with myself. I hadn’t realised how much I needed it. WholeLife/Wellness has helped me understand and accept who I am, what my strengths are and what truly resonates with me in life. I found being away from the busy every day life of the UK and seeing how beautiful and simple life can be is what impacted me the most. I’ve now deleted all social media for a year and the change it’s had on my life is huge. Being in the Monastery was the most impactful for this sensation, watching the nuns living sustainably with such strong faith, kindness and sense of peace was inspiring. It also gives you quiet, uninterrupted time for reflection, which doesn’t happen often these days! Starting this journey at my age is one of the best things I have done, I have already learnt so much on how to fuel my body and soul. Being able to view the world in a different, brighter lens and appreciate what is around you is something that will stay with you every day. I look forward to where the journey takes me.

Hi, I’m Nadine, a working professional, a curious learner who enjoys baking, travel and trying new wellbeing initiatives. I met Tanja about 9 years ago at a time where I needed balance, energy and a full reset and I embarked on the wholeLife Wellbeing journey which ticked all the boxes. Other than the lovely positive community who share useful and inspirational tips, The 30 Day Reset Programme was amazing to instil positive habits, and the coaching was really great. I also found the retreat really good at helping to embed those habits whether through nutritional food, daily movement, mindfulness practices and supportive community conversations. I felt my wellbeing improved overall with a calmer mindset and a renewed motivation My words of inspiration: “Small, consistent steps truly create lasting change!”

I am a mum to three girls, one who is sadly no longer with us. When I lost my daughter, I also felt like I lost who I was, but with lots of help and patience Tanja has helped find the new me! I have found all aspects of WholeLife helpful but the things that stand out to me the most are the nutrition programmes and mindful gratitude activities and as a result I include gratitude in my daily routine and plan balanced meals for the week ahead. I now notice the small beautiful things in life, which I never noticed before. I feel happier, calmer and have more energy throughout the day. I have also found a new love for soup, discovering easy ways to include healthy foods into my daily routine despite some initial challenges with texture and taste, it's a really positive achievement! I will always miss my daughter, but I feel like I am progressing forward my journey of healing and I have learnt that through the experiences and challenges, I can help others which makes me happy! My words of inspiration: “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change” - Wayne Dyer.

Hi I’m Sandra. WholeLife has supported my health and wellness as a mum to 3 adult children, a wife and a working full time. I love travelling, learning about all life has to offer and looking after my health to support my life goals. I needed to make changes to my physical and mental health. I felt I was on a hamster wheel and thinking negatively which resulted in two major illnesses. I have completed the 30 Day Reset Programme and continued to improve my nutrition which has now reduced the main cause of illness - inflammation. I walk, do exercise classes and meditate which have all brought about a positive impact on my mind and body. I also participate in the Wellness Supper Clubs and Wellness Retreats in Montenegro I now have a better approach to life. I think more positively, embracing all the beauty around me, nourishing the body with healthy food, strengthening the mind and body with exercise. Life is precious, and it's never too late to make a new beginning. Just start and keep taking positive steps. My words of inspiration: “There is nothing more important than your health. What you do today to protect this, will create a better future. Make your wellness a priority and create the life you dream of."

I am a french professional and mother of two amazing young adults. I love travelling, discovering new things and taking walks with my dog. I had lost my sense of purpose finding myself in a downward negative spiral full of self-doubt. The 30 Day Reset, 30 Days to Thrive and 30 Days to Flourish, 121 Wellness Coaching Sessions, and the Wellness Retreat in Montenegro all have given me a goal to reset my gut and mental health. I now have abundant energy and positivity. I feel more grateful for everyday focussing on all the good things and I feel empowered to make the right choices helping me to live a life of meaning and purpose. The brain fog has totally gone, and I feel much sharper which has improved my productivity both at home and in the workplace. I feel more centred, in control and confident in my decision-making. My words of inspiration: “Give yourself permission to slow down, to nourish your mind and body with goodness and kindness. This will give you the clarity, gratitude and joy to make the very most of your life and help others to do the same”.

I’m Vicky, a wife, mum, and full-time carer to my dad. At first, I didn’t realise how much I needed WholeLife, but I really did! I joined in 2019 with the Mind&Body Flow class, and it quickly became something much deeper than exercise. The blend of movement was beautiful, but it was the mindfulness that really touched me. It opened up emotions I’d often kept tucked away. Over time, I found connection, not just within myself, but with others too. The friendships became meaningful, and it soon became a special part of my week. When Covid came, that sense of connection continued online, which meant more than I could ever have imagined. The weekly classes are always a highlight for me, but the Montenegro retreat holds a special place in my heart. I’ve been twice, and each time has felt like a reset. Being surrounded by nature, nourishing food, and a sense of calm gave me the space to breathe, reflect, and just be. I feel stronger in my body, but also softer within myself. I’m more connected emotionally and spiritually, with a deeper understanding of who I am, my purpose and the path I want to follow. Wellness has become an integrated part of my life with lots of mindful walks with my dog buddy, bags of healthy recipes, treats and gardening, being just a few of the many activities. The lifestyle has helped me sustain my family and enhance my connection with people I support through my business. My words of inspiration: “Sometimes the smallest step towards yourself can lead to the biggest changes and the WholeLife Wellbeing Community can help you achieve this”.

I'm a full time worker, have a family and try to maintain health and fitness. My WholeLife journey has provided me with opportunities to find new ways to achieve a healthy active lifestyle, develop a positive attitude and connect with like-minded people. The Wellness Supper Clubs, 121 Wellness Coaching, Miracle Morning, all of which helped me to build a positive mindset and positive energy for life. I have loved trying new foods and activities that I would never have tried before Positivity, maintaining a calmness and self awareness to achieve and accomplish a healthy lifestyle and building the courage to take bold steps for growth and new adventures My words of inspiration: “Keep believing in yourself - you're capable of amazing things. Your potential is endless!”

I am a mum to two teenagers, teacher to 4 year olds and 6 times marathon runner. I needed WholeLife as everyone always came first, leaving the only time I had to myself was to run (which I love but never any down time). So learning to integrate wellness for me was a big positive step Attending the Mind&Body Flow Classes gave me time to stop, be mindful, giggle and challenge myself. The second highlight was the Wellness Retreat in Montenegro which gave me time for me with no “mum guilt”. I loved every aspect of the experience including; breathing in the fresh air, the wellness activities and positive social connection with like-minded people My words of inspiration: “Believe in yourself and anything is possible”.

I needed a place where I could clear my mind and feel still and calm, which is so hard to get in day to day life. It’s a route that most 25 year olds don’t invest in because it’s deemed not as fun or as cool as going to the pub with your friends, but one which will actually help me the most as I navigate my 20s. Visiting the Monastery Zdrebaonik on the Wellness Retreat in Montenegro affected me the most, the stillness, peace, and clarity I felt within those walls was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. The experience made me feel so much better physically and mentally. It also made me look at my life & habits and start to change them. For example, instead of ordering another takeaway (something so easy) I cooked a whole food meal which made me feel so much better than the takeaway would have done. My words of Inspiration: “If you’re feeling lost or unsure about your life, navigating your 20s, and you’re wanting to create healthy habits, this is something you need to do. It may be hard to take that first step, but once you do you will not regret it. The wellness retreat allows you to make time for yourself physically and mentally, clear your mind, and feel still, no matter what else is going on!”

I am a mum of three, passionate about learning and reducing my footprint on our planet. I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease in 2011 and have had multiple relapses ever since. This condition makes me deeply anaemic and life can become a challenge. After witnessing my Dad spiraling with addiction to his ill health and death, I decided to take back control of my life and radically change my lifestyle. One-to-one wellness coaching sessions with Tanja and the exchange during group activities. I also love the mind&body flow classes and the relaxation sessions Most of my symptoms have been reversed by moving onto a wholefood, plantbased diet. Despite being initially resistant - the daily meditation and journaling has significantly reduced my anxiety and stress levels. My words of inspiration: “If you want something to change - be the changemaker and just do it! A better life all starts with the first step.”

Hi, I’m Julie, I connected with WholeLife Wellbeing initially through the Mind & Body Classes and support with the Nutrition Programmes. I have a background in the busy corporate world, running the marketing for a large global brand, and I am a mum of two fabulous adult children, James, who is 32, a Captain in the Army, and Georgia, who is 28 and living her best life in Canada. I am now retired and focusing on making the very best of life, which includes travel and taking care of my Tibetan Terrier, Betsy. Regarding my health, which is why I need WholeLife Wellbeing, I have been diagnosed with an ultra-rare brain disease, cerebellar ataxia. In short, my DNA is not functioning properly, which affects my movement and balance. My illness is degenerative, which is something I have to learn to live with. There are no medications on the market. I have learned to practice holistic wellness as a lifestyle, with plant based nutrition, increased daily hydration and a positive daily routine. I also go to church, which definitely helps. I chose to invest in the WholeLife Wellbeing retreat in Montenegro to optimise my wellness and to experience the excursion to visit the Monastery Ostrog. Saint Basil's relics are protected here, and I had the opportunity to visit. This experience really touched my heart and brought me a sense of peace, which has been truly inspirational, giving me hope in a very challenging situation. I love spending time with Tanja and the girls at the Supper Clubs and Wellbeing Events. The social connection with like minded people is super positive and a real enhancement to my wellness. My words of inspiration: “No matter what the challenges are or how difficult things may seem, we are never alone. Help is there when you reach out for it. Have faith, choose to be grateful for what you have”.

Hi, I’m Jane, a retired headteacher, happily married great granny and founder of the “Old Contemptibles Fellowship”. Life stresses led to searching for personal wellness. I chose WholeLife because I loved the ethos, knowledge and comradeship. I have loved learning about plant based nutrition and trying the range of food and recipes which has positively impacted my cooking and eating habits Some of my highlights include cooking together, sharing positive experiences and adventures in Montenegro - jumping off a boat into the sea, walking up the mountain to the Monastery Ostrog Being part of a community of such lovely, caring, like-minded women, has helped me to regain my personal confidence and positive nature which has led to being reassured in my Purpose - Helping to perpetuate the memory of service to others. My words of inspiration: “Everyone suddenly burst out singing and I was filled with such delight… and the singing will never be done” Sassoon 1919.”

A caring, compassionate cheerleader for friends, family and people I meet along the way, and a love of musicals, nature and wild swimming. I wanted joyful support to prioritise myself and build uplifting, healthy routines. Laughing with likeminded people, mindful adventures, and learning to integrate simple daily wellness habits made everything feel lighter. As a result I feel brighter, more balanced, and empowered showing small steps taken with kindness and a sense of fun can transform your whole life. Now I prioritise what nourishes me My words of inspiration: “Say yes to what brings you joy, so that you have the energy to support others with compassion and care.”

Hi I’m Jackie, a dancer, choreographer, teacher, coach, mentor & examiner in the dance world and a wife for 47 years. When I initially connected with WholeLife,I was interested to learn more and joined, not realising how much I needed it! I thought I was coping with my life, but I was in a sad place, little contact with my dance world, caring for my husband, feeling isolated. Inspiring confidence in others, I had little in myself. The wonderful retreats in Montenegro gave me time and space to grieve, reset, reflect in beautiful surroundings. Being nourished by nature, food, spring water, visits to Monasteries, and more - feeding mind, body, & soul. Experiencing new and exciting wellness experiences including; The Wellness Supper Clubs and WholeLife Online with wonderful inspiring likeminded women is also incredibly supportive and fun. I can now move forward in life with confidence and self-belief, enjoying every moment of every day filled with joy and excitement. My words of inspiration: “Learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all” It radiates out into the world and inspires others."

I was physically unwell with obesity, diabetes and associated conditions. I was depressed and overwhelmed. I needed to make changes because I was unhappy and unhealthy - physically and mentally. Creating a healthy mindset through gratitude, journalling and mindfulness, and balancing my gut health through; The 30 day Reset Programme and plant-based nutrition, was key to making positive changes to my physical and mental well being. My WholeLife highlight was travelling to Montenegro and the walk to the Monastery Ostrog, something I never would have been able to do before incorporating the wholelife lifestyle, as well as spending time with other Wholelifers. Wholelife helped me to make sustainable changes and to build a lifestyle that enabled me to be the person I wanted to be, to accomplish the things I wanted to do. It taught me how to start making positive changes by changing mindset and believing in myself, everything from there fell into place. My words of inspiration: “Life is yours to live. Own it, address what’s in your control and watch your aspirations transpire into reality”.

Hi, I’m Cath. I’m a wife, a mother to two grown up boys, a midwife and senior manager in the NHS. I joined Mind and Body flow classes in January 2022 after seeing a link on Facebook and thought the classes looked different! I enjoy attending them as they are a little bit of ‘me time’ in the week to focus, breathe and reflect on what’s happening at that point in my life. My boys have flown the nest and I have found myself working longer hours each day. Leaving less time for myself and my husband. We all have challenges in our lives. WholeLife and wellness keeps me focused. I need to ensure I carve time out each day for me! To focus and reflect on what’s important, what are my challenges and how I will work to overcome them. Along with this is ensuring I have good nutrition to help with my mental health, my mobility and weight to keep overall be a better me. By attending the mindfulness evening, supper clubs, book clubs I gain more knowledge and ideas to improve my overall wellbeing, whilst listening to others experiences and ideas. I will be attending the retreat for the third time. I am looking forward to finding out something more about myself and pushing myself to go outside my comfort zone! My words of Inspiration: “You can’t change everything at the same time. Start with a simple challenge or change. If you fall off the path or fall down or find you are on a different path, that’s ok! Reroute your internal satnav and reset your destination and just keep going!”

I am a busy Mum but can always find time to gaze at the stars! WholeLife started as an exercise class and grew from there - classes, coaching, activities and the retreat in Montenegro have provided an increased awareness helping me to make positive life choices As a result, I am fitter, healthier and have the skills to lead a better life which is in turn positively impacted my home and professional life My words of inspiration: “I have learnt to appreciate the joy in every moment and that every small step forward is progress. So keep taking them and move closer to fulfilling your true potential."

Hi! I am Flo, a hospice nurse mum of five and homeopath in the making. The wellness retreat in Montenegro was a slice of heaven and everything I needed, connection and comfort through movement and delicious food. I felt so welcomed, present and a part of something so real. Since the retreat my mindset has changed regarding how I look after myself. My eating habits and my mindset. Life has become happier . My words of inspiration: “Mum guilt is the worst with the mountains of responsibility, but never feel guilty for wanting to become the best version of yourself. A better you, means that you can be better for others and that can only be a good thing. You and they deserve it.”

I’m a mother and wife to Jack and Paul who are my most precious achievements. I work full time and run our home. I escaped the political turmoil of South Africa and found this to be an exceptionally difficult challenge. But it made me a stronger person. I knew something was missing in my life and healthy living is an intuitive reaction for me. Spending time on my grandmother’s farm as a kid meant picking fresh fruit and veg and eating them raw while reading books. Sunny days in Africa turn avocados and tomatoes into the most intrinsically healthy foods on the plant. Eating a plant-based diet and declining alcohol had a huge impact on my mind set, weight and blood pressure readings. I lost my puffy cheeks and gained a renewed confidence in my ability to shape my future by making good decisions. In the past 9 months I have been through 4 stressful life experiences and without the armoury of clean living I would have drowned in an abyss of sweat, tears and self-pity. But I have worked hard to maintain my focus and intend to continue to make a concerted effort to put my energy into my health and well-being. My words of inspiration: "Many people who embark on their wellness challenge only start later in life, once they have matured. Changing a lifetime of bad habits takes time. Be kind to yourself as you begin your new journey and forgive yourself for not knowing earlier what only time could teach."