Our Story
: The Birth of Wild Awake
It began in September 2020, Koh Phangan, Thailand, in the middle of COVID-19. Supariya had just completed her yoga teacher training at One Yoga, while Knina was on the cusp of beginning hers.
Our paths crossed serendipitously, and it was as if the universe had conspired to bring us together. We instantly connected over our shared favorite mantra, a little spark that ignited a great friendship.
Supariya had to return to Bangkok, but she couldn't shake the feeling that her story on this island wasn't quite finished. Trusting her intuition, she left a few bags with Knina, feeling deep in her soul that she would be back. And back she came - but this time, she never truly left.
Upon her return, Knina invited Supariya to join her for a Vipassana meditation retreat. Neither of us fully grasped what the experience would be like, but we embarked on the journey together. For ten days, we sat in silence, side by side, delving deep into our inner worlds. 100 hours of meditation passed. It was here, in the quietude of our shared silence, that our bond deepened, our spirits intertwining in a dance of introspection and revelation. As if we have done the practices in other lifetimes before #nunlife
Emerging from the silent retreat, we both felt a profound sense of love, presence, and joy, all enveloped in the serenity and simplicity of island life. It was a transformative experience that left us both wondering why the world only knew Koh Phangan for its party culture. There was so much more – this land holds each person in loving stillness and silence long enough for people to hear their heart’s calling again.
A few days later, Supariya turned to Knina, her eyes sparkling with a wild idea. "Why don’t we share this magic?” Let’s host a retreat to share the true essence of yoga that extends far beyond the mat, embodying a way of living in harmony. We can also help spread abundance to the kind-hearted locals who have welcomed us in like family, yet are struggling during this pandemic. “Let’s share this freedom we feel in living this simple island life from our heart’s centre, savoring every mouthful of jok and fresh tropical fruits, and being inspired by the community of people doing what they love and loving what they do here…”
Knina could see this vision immediately, felt a full-body YES to this new adventure and replied with excitement, "Let's do it!"
And so, with hearts full passion and purpose, we jumped wholeheartedly into this wild, new adventure, one that would allow us to share the hidden treasures of our new home in Koh Phangan with others!
The First Brave Soul:
With just one week left until our very first Wild Awake retreat, we found ourselves facing an unexpected twist—only one person had signed up. We could have panicked, but instead, we laughed under the stars of Koh Phangan and decided to go ahead for the sheer joy of it, even if it meant dipping into our pockets.
“Let’s do it for the fun of it,” we agreed.
Our solo adventurer was Lek, a spirited soul who jumped at the chance to join us, fully aware he’d be the only participant. From the get-go, his enthusiasm was infectious. He dove into every activity with childlike excitement, transforming our retreat into a delightful adventure. We meditated under palm trees, explored hidden trails, and shared countless laughs, all the while deepening our connection to the island and to each other.
When it was time for Lek to leave, he did so with a sparkle in his eyes and a newfound zest for life that everyone noticed. His friends and family couldn’t help but ask, “What happened to you, Lek?”
His transformation became a beacon, drawing others to our retreat through joyful whispers and heartfelt recommendations. Word spread, and soon our little retreat was buzzing with new faces eager to experience the magic that had touched Lek’s heart.
An Unforgettable Journey
“During that trip, I ventured into the external world, which opened my eyes wide and reflected deeply into my inner self. I encountered incredible people who I never imagined I would meet—individuals who genuinely believed in their values and lived the life they truly desired. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone once again and stepped into a world I had never experienced before.
I realized that peace doesn’t necessarily have to be found in a temple or through meditation alone. It can also arise when you immerse yourself in the water, watch the sunset, or dance wildly to music. I reconnected with a happiness that came from deep within, a genuine inner joy.
This experience allowed me to face my fears, learn to observe them, and gradually find ways to smile and coexist with them peacefully. It reignited my courage to love and to embrace life with greater zest. I came to understand that the concept of success might not be as rigid as what we’ve been taught or what we cling to from our upbringing. There are many other forms of success out there.
After that, a new, large door opened for me. I embarked on a journey, both outwardly and inwardly, once again. And what an enjoyable journey it has been! I’ve grown to love myself more, improved my physical and mental health, and truly enjoyed being myself while living in alignment with my beliefs. I’ve returned to giving time and opportunities for my own journey and growth, regaining faith in myself and in the path that lies ahead.”
—Lek
