In conversation with Nikki Heyder
We were invited into Nikki Heyder’s family home in Sanur for a conversation shaped by presence, mindfulness, and the realities of building a meaningful life without losing yourself in the process.
A psychotherapist, business mentor, mother and founder, Nikki works closely with legacy-driven entrepreneurs, supporting them in creating businesses that feel sustainable both professionally and personally. Her approach is grounded less in hustle and performance, and more in nervous system regulation, self-awareness, and the ability to move through life consciously.
Her path into mentorship happened organically. Through her work as a therapist, fellow wellness practitioners, yoga teachers, and entrepreneurs began reaching out for guidance around building businesses that protected their mental health rather than compromising it. Over time, that support naturally evolved into a wider practice centred around sustainability, longevity, and emotional wellbeing within entrepreneurship.
Having taught yoga for over twelve years, Nikki speaks often about presence and observation — particularly the importance of recognising that not every thought needs to be believed. Instead, she encourages cultivating the ability to pause, observe, and respond intentionally.
“Not all of your thoughts are real,” she explains. “When you learn to observe them instead of immediately believing them, you start to realise you have a choice in how you respond to your life.”
Throughout the conversation, Nikki reflects on ambition from a perspective that feels quieter and more grounded than the culture surrounding it. Rather than glorifying burnout, she speaks about building slowly, sustainably, and in a way that allows people to remain connected to themselves throughout the process.
“Through my work, I hope people feel empowered, capable, and inspired.”
Friends of Arlo is an ongoing series exploring the inner worlds, practices, and perspectives of individuals shaping thoughtful and intentional lives across creative, wellness, and cultural spaces.
