British backpacker, 30, ‘brainwashed’ by New Age gurus on spiritual retreat in Bali found dead in hotel room, inquest hears

British businesswoman Josephine Tabor, 30, was tragically found dead in a hotel room in Bali following a spiritual retreat. An inquest revealed her diary entries suggesting the influence of New Age gurus and a potential ‘brainwashing’ effect. Her family voiced concerns about these cult-like groups and their practices, sparking debate about the safety of such retreats.

Josephine Tabor, a 30-year-old businesswoman from the UK, was found lifeless by a hotel cleaner on the morning of December 30, 2021. She had spent over two years travelling the world before her untimely death. Notably, she had been attending spiritual retreats in the Indonesian province of Bali, which her family believes had a significant influence on her.

Ms. Tabor’s family told the court about diary entries they discovered after her death. These entries detailed her experiences at these retreats, including being administered a so-called ‘truth serum’. The family described the practices of these retreats as cult-like and voiced concern about their potential to brainwash attendees.

The British national had developed an interest in spiritualism after meeting her then-boyfriend from America. He was heavily interested in star signs, tarot readings, and other new age practices. This interest led her to attend various retreats around the world.

In one of her final diary entries, Ms. Tabor wrote, “I have tried everything except suicide. It is my final roll of the dice.” This statement underscores the extent to which she felt trapped and desperate in her final days.

Ms. Tabor was a highly educated woman with a degree in psychology from Cardiff University. She had also qualified as a yoga teacher and ran a successful online marketing and branding business with over 15,000 followers on social media.

Despite her apparent success and lack of financial troubles, Ms. Tabor’s family stated that they had been concerned for years about her involvement in the spiritual world. However, they did not wish to criticize her lifestyle choices.

Her family’s statement to Taunton Coroner’s Court highlighted concerns about these spiritual retreats. They argued that while these retreats have thousands of followers, it doesn’t mean they are qualified or altruistic in their practices.

The family emphasized their belief that Josephine had been victimised by these retreats, a sentiment that they felt was echoed in her diary entries. They believe their daughter attended a further retreat in Turkey before her death, but could not confirm this.

The Turkish authorities who investigated Ms. Tabor’s death found no evidence of alcohol or drug use and her GP in Somerset attested that she had no known mental health or physical health issues that could have led to her suicide.

The Assistant Coroner, Steve Cavell, noted that her journals reflected a “pseudo mystic religious theme throughout”, with mentions of past lives and discussions of suicide as a form of freedom.

This tragic case of Josephine Tabor, a successful young businesswoman who was seemingly led down a dark path by the influence of New Age gurus, highlights the potential dangers of unregulated spiritual retreats and the self-styled gurus who often lead them. It brings to the forefront the need for increased scrutiny and regulation in this sphere.

While spiritual retreats can undoubtedly offer solace and a path to self-discovery for many, the lack of oversight and regulation could pose significant risks. Tabor’s family’s belief that she was ‘brainwashed’ during her retreats raises critical concerns about mental manipulation and exploitation of vulnerable individuals seeking solace or answers.

In an age where alternative spirituality is gaining popularity, this incident serves as a cautionary tale. It underscores the need for individuals to approach such practices with a degree of skepticism and caution, ensuring that they are engaging with reputable, ethical practitioners.

Moreover, it emphasises the importance of mental health awareness and support, particularly for those who might be going through personal crises or seeking meaning in their lives. Despite having no known mental health issues according to her GP, Tabor’s tragic suicide shows that outward success and seeming normality can often mask deep internal struggles.

Tabor’s tragic end further underscores the potential pitfalls of global connectivity. In today’s interconnected world, people can easily access beliefs and practices from different cultures. However, without proper understanding or guidance, these practices could potentially be misinterpreted or misused, leading to harmful consequences.

As the world continues to grapple with mental health issues and seeks solutions in various forms – traditional or alternative – it’s essential that safeguards are put in place to protect vulnerable individuals from potential exploitation or harm. The incident serves as a stark reminder that while seeking spiritual enlightenment is a personal journey, it should never come at the cost of one’s safety or life.

The story of Josephine Tabor serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with unregulated spiritual retreats and the influence of self-proclaimed gurus. It also underscores the importance of mental health awareness and support, even for those who outwardly appear successful and contented.

As we navigate an era of increased digital connectivity and global access to diverse beliefs and practices, it’s imperative that we remain conscious of the potential risks. While spiritual exploration can undoubtedly offer solace and self-discovery, it’s crucial that such journeys are undertaken with caution, skepticism, and a commitment to personal safety.

Looking ahead, this tragic incident could potentially serve as a catalyst for change. It highlights the urgent need for increased regulation and oversight in the realm of spiritual retreats. It also calls for a broader societal conversation on mental health support and the potential psychological impact of intense spiritual practices.

As we continue to explore alternative forms of spirituality and self-improvement, we must remember to prioritize safety and mental wellbeing. After all, true enlightenment should never come at the cost of one’s life. Josephine Tabor’s tragic end asks us all to consider: how can we ensure that those seeking spiritual growth are protected from potential harm?