Our Story
‘Ma'va’, spelt in the Farsi language, is deeply rooted in the Arabic word Al Ma’wa. It means more than refuge. It is a sacred return to the self, a stillness where the soul remembers its origin. In the Qur'an, Jannat al-Ma'wā is the ultimate abode for those who walked gently, sought the truth, and surrendered with sincerity.
Born from this sacred idea, Ma’va Retreats creates gentle pauses in a world that never stops, inviting women to step away from daily demands, breathe deeply, and realign with the best version of themselves.
Why Ma’va Retreats?
It facilitates women in techniques to detox, realign, and rise into power with purpose and clarity.
It guides women to discern depth from distraction, meaning from utility, amidst the noise of modern life and the pace of technological efficiency.
It evokes the idea of a place of sanctuary and divine closeness.
It emphasises safety, rest, and spiritual renewal.
It builds a support system of sisterhood, a much-needed platform for women to enhance their personal growth.
What we stand for
We believe rest is not a luxury but a divine trust. Our retreats weave together a strategic framework to rest, mindful contemplation, quiet nature, and sister-circle support so you can:
1.Pause the noise and listen to your inner wisdom.
Tafakkur (تفكر) Reflective contemplation
“Do they not reflect within themselves?” (Qur’an 30:8)
This invites women to engage in deep reflection, stepping away from worldly distractions to reconnect with the divine voice within.
Tafakkur is considered a form of worship quiet, personal, and deeply transformative.
2. Reset mind and body through restorative practices.
Sacred breath & rhythm
In Islamic tradition, taking care of one’s physical and emotional well-being is a spiritual duty. Rest and restoration are not luxuries. They are acts of ihsan (excellence). Practices that honour the body through movement, stillness, breath, or nourishment reflect the prophetic model of balance.
3. Realign with your spiritual compass and personal goals.
Niyyah (نية) Intention
“Actions are by intentions…” (Hadith, Bukhari & Muslim)
Niyyah is the compass of a believer. Realigning with purpose is a sacred act of recalibrating one’s path toward what matters both in dunya (this life) and akhirah (the hereafter). Your retreat becomes a sanctuary for that inner recalibration.
4. Rise in a community of like-hearted women who walk beside you long after the retreat ends.
Suhbah (صحبة) Spiritual companionship
The Prophet ﷺ emphasised the power of righteous companionship. A woman’s journey is strengthened when walked in noble company, where hearts are witnessed, uplifted, and remembered. Ma’va becomes more than a retreat it becomes a source of enduring sisterhood rooted in contentment Qana’ah (قناعة).