Pause, Breathe and Reset Yourself at Marpole Retreats in Leith

Words: Nicola Campbell

Marpole Retreats - a new centre for wellness and community in Edinburgh’s Leith

On Saturday afternoon, I took a little step off my world to enjoy some long-overdue just-for-me-time (it’s been a tricky old year). Nestled in a former architect’s office towards the foot of Leith Walk sits Marpole Retreats, a beautiful new wellness hub designed to bring calm, connection, and community to Edinburgh’s increasingly busy hearts and minds.

Spread across two serene floors, the space is as thoughtful as it is welcoming. There’s a bright studio for yoga, pilates and candlelit meditation; a cosy Reformer Pilates room; a co-working space that’s open all day; and an event room that plays host to everything from Paint & Sip evenings to creative workshops. At its core, Marpole centres around Paul J. Meyer’s Wheel of Life – a mural of which greets you as you arrive, reminding you why you’re there: to find a little more balance in the chaos.

Owner Marie Helen Fryman Kunert created Marpole Retreats as a place where wellness isn’t just about fitness but community — a place to work, move, rest and connect. Her dream? That this is just the first of many Marpole spaces, with plans already underway for wellness escapes in 2026.

Meditation with Kelly – A Soft Reset

My first stop was a blissful Meditation class with Kelly, founder of Leela Wellness. Kelly’s approach is grounded and soulful, blending breath, body, and mind through meditation, yin yoga and yoga nidra. Before we even began, we took a quiet moment to reflect on our own Wheel of Life — rating how balanced we feel across areas like family, health, relationships, and personal growth.

When do you ever stop and think about that? For me, the answer was never. And while I expected the exercise to confirm how chaotic my world has been lately, my tree was surprisingly balanced — except for one area: personal growth. Which made being there feel exactly right.

Then came the true switch-off. With bolster, blanket and blackout eye mask in place, Kelly’s voice softened the edges of the day. My limbs felt heavy, my thoughts quiet. For 45 precious minutes, I was completely still — and when she gently coached us back into awareness, I realised just how much I needed that pause.

Pilates Fusion with Fiona – Finding Strength

Next up was Pilates Fusion with Fiona Diack, and I’ll admit I felt slightly nervous. My previous Pilates experience involved my mum (whose core is non-existent) and a rogue Pilates ball ricocheting across the studio. This time, thankfully, it was just a mat and a pilates ring — and not a ball in sight.

Fiona is a brilliant teacher: calm, clear and incredibly precise. She guided us into the right positions without fuss, making sure no one was straining their back or holding tension. It was surprisingly tough — my stomach muscles reminded me of it the next day — but I left feeling strong and balanced.

Paint & Sip – Creativity Meets Connection

Finally, the bit I’d been most looking forward to: the Paint & Sip session, led by artist Susan Beveridge. With a glass of wine in one hand and a paintbrush in the other, this class is all about relaxed creativity and good company. Under Susan’s gentle guidance, even the self-proclaimed “can’t-draw” crowd will find themselves immersed in colour and laughter.

Sadly, just as the first brushstrokes hit the canvas, my phone pinged — mum duties calling. Eldest daughter, a lift required, and my bliss bubble burst. But I’ll be back.

For those luckier than me, Paint & Sip is the perfect mix of play and mindfulness — no experience needed, just a willingness to unwind and let go.

Community at the Core

What really sets Marpole apart is its sense of community. Already, “The Miss Marpoles” — a WhatsApp group of regulars — have formed, meeting up for “Pilates & Pints” and swapping recommendations for classes and events. Marie’s vision is to see these connections grow into something truly special — a space where people come to belong as much as to breathe.

If you’re curious, there’s a great intro offer for new customers — three classes and one event for £50, giving you a taste of everything from sound baths and meditation to creative workshops.