Founder of Singita Wellness – Michelle Wheatley
The beginning…
Michelle was born in South Africa, with an idyllic childhood in the 60’s and 70’s, into a loving, fun, active family. The harsh reality of apartheid only truly hit whilst at University, protesting and playing in an all-girl rock band were some of the creative expressions at the time. In response to a society built on injustice and growing turmoil, Michelle emigrated to Canada in the late 80’s. South Africa has always remained close to her heart.
Her work experience started in South Africa in the fast-paced film production industry. After moving to Canada, Michelle embarked on her journey of education and knowledge in the health and fitness industry. Michelle’s passion has always been movement, she studied Dance as a young child into teens, as well as a passion for music and creativity.
Fitness journey begins…
With young children it was the ideal part time career – Fitness instructor certifying in many class types along with Nutritional education and coaching. Subsequently certifying as a Personal Trainer and moving on to ownership in a health club in Oakville, Ontario, Canada.
The big box health club in Canada was a wonderful success and great experience, however with a large operation, Michelle’s time was spent more in Management than doing what she loved most, to teach, train, coach and work with people in this capacity.
Barbados bound… (or Finding Theta)
After moving to Barbados in 2012 and not having a work permit, Michelle spent her time delving into spiritual growth fueled by the realization that work needed to be done on herself to evolve from her “people pleasing” archetype after two failed marriages and the desire to evolve to an enlightened state of being. This is still a work in progress today. Michelle used this time to certify as a Theta Healing Practitioner, and this is when a vision of an all-encompassing wellness centre started to manifest.
Vision realized…
In 2018, this vision took root when she developed and founded the Singita Wellness space at Mullins, Barbados. The first of it’s kind in Barbados – a beautiful studio with a variety of fitness classes, a gym, spa treatments, healing treatments, meditation as well as a health café. A spiritually enlightened community of like-minded people who gathered together and shared a vibrational connection of nonjudgement, authenticity, encouragement, upliftment and harmonious connection.
After launching the business just before Covid (and surviving the challenges that it brought), Michelle and her team worked to bring about an incredible reputation for quality and success.
Going global…
Singita Online Club was launched to keep the movement going during Covid, and has been one of the mainstays that keeps the cohesion of our entire community. Most people heading back home to the UK or Canada (and beyond) were hard pressed to find any other classes that gave the same results whilst having the most fun participating in them. A lot of our clients then became Online members to keep the consistency and continuity of this amazing group of souls with likeminded positivity and openness to a spiritual wellness evolution. It is a very simple click on our website to join, and not only includes live streamed classes each weekday, but over 100 on demand classes to choose from.
Inner wellbeing has also always been an integral part of Michelle’s wellness philosophy and as a certified Theta Healer, she has infused this healing modality into her unique style of Meditation classes, and also offers private healing sessions.
Fitness Philosophy
Michelle teaches Barre, Pilates, Yoga, HIIT, Dance, Bodysculpt, Core Conditioning, Athletic Circuits. Her philosophy to mix things up and ensure each component of fitness is catered to in classes. Cardio, Strength and Flexibility. Michelle’s unique style honed after over 35 years of teaching comes from her experience, education, also having trained in Ballet and Dance. So a whole lot of heart, intuition and musicality are mingled to get the most amazing results. Beginners are welcomed, any level can attend these classes as everything is can be modified. The only prerequisite is your attitude. Attitude is everything, we are here to become healthier, stronger, fitter and more evolved positive beings. At Singita Wellness our classes are designed to get results.
New vision incoming…
Michelle relinquished the space in May 2025, having achieved her initial dream and realizing that a new vision was beginning to unfold (watch this space), and of course leaving the space in an elevated state – with a reputation, and business ‘blue-print’ ready for the incoming tenants.
The move from Mullins allowed more opportunity to evolve and life lessons to learn about boundaries and over giving, and Michelle is now pausing, and allowing the possibility of what could come next to materialize.
The manifestation of Singita Wellness 2.0 is underway.
Michelle’s purest intention is to use her God given gifts of teaching and healing, to help as many people as possible. The excitement of the next chapter building.
We are on the move towards our new permanent location but in the meantime (as these things take time) give our Online Club a try if you’re not already a member.
“Keep Moving, Keep Smiling and do it all with love! Michelle xo
