Tulisa's Health Wake-Up Call After Friend's Cancer Diagnosis
Singer Tulisa has publicly shared how her "soul mate's" breast cancer diagnosis has become a powerful catalyst for her own health transformation. The 37-year-old artist took to Instagram on Sunday to document her renewed commitment to self-care, posting emotional tributes alongside practical updates about lifestyle changes.
Emotional Support During Cancer Battle
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Tulisa shared photographs of her close friend Michelle McKenna, whom she described as both her sister and soul mate. "2025 has been a significant year for emotional and personal growth," Tulisa wrote. "There's been considerable chaos to navigate, particularly as my sister @michelleplatnum embraces her breast cancer diagnosis."
The singer expressed immense admiration for her friend's resilience: "Surgery has progressed well so far. What an absolute warrior. Her positive energy and ability to maintain laughter throughout this challenge have been truly remarkable and inspiring."
Tulisa's emotional tribute continued: "You are not just my sister. You are my soul mate. I don't know where I would be in this world without you. I love you sis. You're going nowhere! Her bravery inspires us all to check our own health. Family means everything!"
Quitting Smoking and Embracing Wellness
Motivated by her friend's health battle, Tulisa announced she has reached six weeks without cigarettes and one month completely nicotine-free. "I'm still using a zero-nicotine vape while withdrawal symptoms ease," she explained. "Massive thanks to @allencarrseasyway for their personalized home session and ongoing support."
The singer described the physical challenges of quitting: "My physical withdrawals have been particularly intense, but I've always been hypersensitive, so I anticipated a difficult cold-turkey experience. I cried like a baby during the initial weeks, but I've shown myself grace while maintaining focus on exercise and self-care. I'm feeling stronger with each passing day."
Ayahuasca Retreat in Peru
This health transformation follows Tulisa's recent "intense" seven-day ayahuasca retreat in Peru, where she participated in three ceremonies involving the psychoactive brew. Ayahuasca, a blend of the ayahuasca vine and chacruna shrub containing DMT, remains illegal in the UK, US, and numerous other countries.
Tulisa shared detailed insights from her experience: "I spent seven nights at @etnikas.ayahuasca.retreats and underwent three ayahuasca ceremonies, each presenting different experiences and more emotional work than anticipated. I now understand why the plant and process are considered sacred. Those who view it merely as a 'drug' require further research."
The singer emphasized the importance of preparation: "I witnessed two individuals who hadn't prepared adequately, and their experiences didn't proceed well. I personally prepared through three months of total abstinence from alcohol, dedicated meditation, and dietary adjustments prior to the retreat, though only two weeks are technically required."
Transformational Experiences and Insights
Tulisa described profound emotional and spiritual revelations during her ceremonies: "The primary message I received involved recognizing my own light and purpose, mostly through the perspectives of those who love me. It was profoundly emotional—I spent hours crying during the first ceremony."
She reported connecting with deceased loved ones, including her Uncle B, and experiencing what she described as higher consciousness connections. "My downloads were exceptionally intense," Tulisa noted. "I requested the death of my ego, only to realize my ego functioned as survival protection stemming from deep-seated fear of being misunderstood. I emerged feeling more assured and empowered on my path."
The third ceremony involved extensive physical purging: "I purged for approximately six hours, consistently vomiting to release old trauma and anxiety. I wouldn't say I feel like a new woman—rather, I better understand and remember who I truly am. I feel more balanced, grounded, calm, self-assured, and powerful."
Ongoing Personal Development
Just last month, Tulisa revealed her plans to travel to Peru for the ayahuasca experience, sharing photographs of herself reading "The Ayahuasca Test Pilots Handbook." She wrote about focusing on "creating joy, keeping my nervous system regulated, and being present."
"Meditation is working wonders," she added. "After just one month of establishing a consistent routine, I can genuinely say it has significantly improved my sleep. It has definitely become a new and essential component of my routine for long-term inner peace and happiness."
N-Dubz Dynamics and Personal Growth
These developments occur against the backdrop of reported tensions within N-Dubz. Tulisa and fellow member Dappy (Costadinos Contostavlos) have recently unfollowed each other on social media, suggesting another period of strained relations for the iconic group that first rose to fame in 2000.
Despite earlier promises of a N-Dubz comeback, Tulisa appears focused on personal transformation. She recently reflected on Instagram: "This week has been chaotic... I'm learning to adapt, viewing it as a challenge and opportunity for growth. I'm exhausted, and much happening around me remains beyond my control, but I'm discovering meaning in the mayhem, lessons in the lows, and growth through the grit."
Tulisa concluded her health-focused post with an empowering message: "This intense and sacred experience isn't for the faint-hearted, but if you're prepared for growth, it's worth researching. Lots of love, Tula 2.0. P.S. Still cigarette-free."
