By Manuel Benages

Looking back, I realize that the creation of SOHA Retreats was not just a business idea or a new venture—it was the culmination of my personal journey through darkness and my relentless pursuit to help others find their own light. My life, like many of the people I now work with, has been full of challenges, struggles, and hardships. But after overcoming those obstacles and experiencing transformation myself, I felt an unwavering desire to share what I had learned and help others do the same.

The Beginnings: Turning Pain into Purpose

There was a time when I was standing in the shadows, unsure of what direction my life would take. The struggles I faced were profound, but they shaped me into the person I am today. I understood, deeply, what it felt like to be in that dark place, feeling lost, broken, and uncertain. When I finally emerged on the other side, I didn’t just want to move forward with my life—I wanted to reach back and help others rise out of their own darkness too.

This drive is what led me to establish my first major endeavor: a national mental health charity. I had no money, no savings, no formal education in running a charity, and not a shred of experience in the sector. But what I did have was an intense passion to make a difference. It didn’t matter that I was starting from zero—what mattered was that I had a vision of what could be.

Expanding the Mission: Beyond Charity to Life-Changing Experiences

Once I saw the profound impact that the charity I founded, Athletic Minds Foundation, had on people’s lives, I knew my mission wasn’t limited to just one avenue. Life is multi-dimensional, and so are our struggles and triumphs. The transformation I experienced wasn’t just about mental or emotional health—it was about every aspect of life, from physical wellbeing to finding peace and purpose.

That’s when SOHA Retreats was born. I wanted to create a space where people could step away from the chaos of their everyday lives and focus on themselves—truly focus. The idea was to offer something beyond the typical holiday or wellness retreat. It wasn’t just about relaxation, but about personal transformation. I envisioned these retreats as journeys where people could realign their mental, emotional, and physical health in a truly holistic way.

Our retreat locations, such as the lush natural landscapes of Thailand, also play an essential role. I know from experience the transformative power of being in an environment that feels like a sanctuary, a place where you can genuinely disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself. That’s why we put so much energy into uncovering the most idyllic resorts and locations right across the world.

One of the important lessons I’ve learned on my journey is that true success isn’t measured by fame or wealth; it’s measured by how you overcome adversity and grow from it. That lesson has been one of the cornerstones of SOHA Retreats. I bring that same mindset to our programs, encouraging each person who attends to tap into their inner strength and unlock their true potential.

Moving Forward: The Next Chapter

The success of Athletic Minds Foundation and SOHA Retreats, and the incredible feedback we received from our participants and guests, made me realise that the principles of transformation and wellbeing shouldn’t be confined to holidays or retreats—they needed to be introduced into the workplace as well. Too many people spend their lives in high-stress environments, losing touch with their wellbeing, purpose, and joy.

By expanding our work into the workplace, we aim to bring the transformative power of these retreats into everyday professional life. When people are healthy, balanced, and fulfilled in their work, they’re more productive, more engaged, and ultimately, happier.

Why not come and experience the transformation for yourself at SOHA Retreats—your own journey starts here.