On December 30, 2021, Josephine Tabor, a 30-year-old Cardiff University graduate, was found dead in a Turkish hotel room. Tabor, who had been travelling the world and exploring spiritualism, died by suicide, with her final diary entry reading: “I have tried everything except suicide. It is my final roll of the dice”. An inquest into her death was held, with her family stating that they believe she was influenced by “cult-like” groups during her travels.
Evidence from her journals suggested that these groups administered her a so-called “truth serum” and encouraged teachings centred around mysticism, past lives, and self-fulfilment. Turkish authorities found no evidence of alcohol or drug use, and her GP in Somerset confirmed she had no diagnosed mental or physical health issues. Despite her family’s concerns, there was no direct evidence linking her death to these groups. Tabor had a degree in Psychology from Cardiff University and was a qualified yoga instructor who often shared her teachings on social media.
Her spiritual interests deepened after meeting an American man passionate about retreats, tarot readings, and New Age practices, who eventually became her boyfriend. She later attended a three-week retreat in Indonesia shortly before her death and is believed to have visited another in Türkiye. Described in court as an “independent and able woman”, Tabor ran a thriving online marketing business, amassing a social media following of over 15,000 people. Despite her outward success, her journals revealed a darker side to her experiences, hinting at disillusionment and despair.
In a statement given to Taunton Coroner’s Court, her family expressed their concerns about the unregulated nature of some spiritual retreats: “These retreats claimed to offer answers. They have thousands of followers, but this does not make them qualified or altruistic.” They described how such groups often isolate individuals from their loved ones: “When a vulnerable person is told a higher force can help them and that the universe is looking out for them, not friends or family, they have no one to turn to as they have been brainwashed into believing the answers lie elsewhere.”
The assistant coroner acknowledged the family’s concerns but noted there was insufficient evidence to link these retreats to Tabor’s death. While her journals reflect her growing disillusionment and struggle with relationships, many questions stay unanswered about her movements and experiences leading up to her death. Tabor’s tragic story underscores the need for greater awareness of the risks of unregulated spiritual practices, particularly for those seeking solace or answers in times of vulnerability. Her family hopes her story serves as a cautionary tale for others navigating similar paths.