We are honoured to shine a light on women who not only embody a holistic approach to wellness but empower and guide others along their journey.
In February this year, we had the pleasure of meeting with Estefa Pastor at the Matcha Club in Dubai. A devoted yoga teacher, soulful retreat host, and valued member of our Affiliate Partner community, Estefa gracefully weaves her values into the way she lives, teaches, and holds space for others. Through her transformative retreats she offers sacred sanctuaries for rest, reconnection, and personal awakening, grounded in the healing power of yoga, meditation and nature.
Living intentionally, for me, means being present and aware in each moment. It’s believing in myself, even when I don’t fully, and continuing to show up and do the work. —Estefa Pastor
1. How has yoga shaped or influenced your personal journey?
Where do I start ? There’s so much I’d like to say. The most obvious is that yoga and the path of teaching completely changed my life. I left a corporate job in the beauty industry where I had built a strong career for over 10 years. I took a leap of faith. Funny enough, I was talking about the Hanuman story in class today. How to tap into your inner wisdom, potential and self-belief, and step into the unknown despite the fear and crippling self-doubt. That’s what I did. I chose to take a risk to get closer to something that felt aligned with my values and my purpose: serving others and guiding them back to their roots and toward a spiritual path.
I see people burning out too often, craving connection healing and self- discovery. And I hope I can assist those who feel ready and resonate with my energy.
2. What values guide the way you live, work, and connect with others?
That is a great question, I actually worked with a coach when I was transitioned to a full-time yoga teacher. The values that guide me are :
Follow your Purpose, Trust your intuition, be Love and Loved, seek Spirituality and connect with a Community that gives you a sense of belonging, support and friendship.
3. Can you tell us about your upcoming retreats and what you love most about hosting retreats?
Retreats are magical journeys in breathtaking destinations. They are sacred spaces that invite you to deepen, heal, reconnect with your inner strength and often-forgotten potential. I carefully curate each retreat to make sure every participant feels safe and supported. What I love the most is holding space, honouring them where they are, and guiding them along the path of transformation and light.
I invest a lot of time and effort in every retreat, from finding the perfect venue to crafting the theme and the program. And I actually have some exciting news! After successfully hosting over 11 retreats (and counting!), and being asked time and time again, I’m soon releasing an eBook to help other yoga teachers plan and launch their first retreats.
My next retreat is happening in early August on the island of Koh Samui, Thailand, and I’m currently finalising exciting destinations for 2026.
4. Who are your retreats best suited for, and what can participants expect?
We’re expected to be present, responsive, and connected at all times. But that pace is not sustainable. Our bodies, minds, and souls need moments to rest and recharge. My retreats offer exactly that, a space to step away, reset and nourish yourself. Through yoga, meditation, immersion in nature, and holistic practices, participants experience deep restoration and often, inspiring transformations.
5. What daily rituals or practices help keep you grounded?
“Discipline is the strongest form of self-love”, that’s a quote I really resonate with. I have a few morning rituals, many of them rooted in Ayurvedic tradition: coconut oil pulling, gua sha, breath work, meditation, and a shot of “rinse elixir” (a mix of lemon, ginger, black pepper, cayenne, sea moss, apple cider vinegar, salt and maple syrup).
Some days I can take my time; others I rush through, regardless, I try to stick to them as much as I can.
6. What advice or words of wisdom would you share with someone just beginning their wellness journey?
Be open and curious. Let go of self-limiting beliefs, and go where you feel naturally drawn. Find a teacher or a community that you genuinely connect with.
7. What do you love most about living in Dubai, and how does the city inspire you?
Safety is definitely at the top of the list. Right after that, I’d say the chance to live among people from so many diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Dubai is an ever-evolving city, where you can choose your own lifestyle. I’m constantly inspired by how many people are interested in wellness and movement in some form.
8. What does living with intention look like for you right now?
Living intentionally, for me, means being present and aware in each moment. It’s believing in myself, even when I don’t fully, and continuing to show up and do the work. It’s constantly seeking ways to move closer to my purpose: to serve and guide others on their journeys.
