Meet Russell M Halil, Healer, Bodyworker, Spiritual Guide
Endless Summers & Early Life
Born and raised in South East and Central London in the 1970s, Russell's childhood was both colourful and complex. A volatile home life, emotional trauma, and early feelings of rejection and abandonment led to years of self-destructive behaviour. Addiction, chaos, and escapism marked his teenage years, culminating in a near-fatal incident that would forever change his life.
The Night I Almost Died
Stabbed six times at a party, Russell had his first near-death experience while working as a PA to a prominent film director. As surgeons battled to save him, he left his body and overheard, "He’s not going to make it." But a clear, inner voice countered, "Oh yes I am. I have a great deal of work to do." Awakening in hospital, he experienced for the first time the quiet but profound presence of the Creator. This was the beginning of The Knowing.
The Knowing
Years later, during a 10-day Vipassana retreat, Russell dissolved into stillness and encountered his true self. A revelation so powerful, it brought both laughter and tears. He calls this experience The Knowing — the unshakeable understanding that we are already enlightened, and that silence, breath, and stillness are the way home.
A Journey Through Traditions
Guided by his spiritual curiosity, Russell studied yoga and philosophy from both the Vedic and Buddhist traditions. His training took him across India, Southeast Asia, the US, and Europe. He spent time in monasteries in Thailand and the UK, trained in Structural Bodywork (Rolfing), and learned Thai Massage from master teachers in Chiang Mai.
Shamanism and the Call of the Plants
Fatherhood became a new initiation. His daughter, Miya — a name that echoes the concept of Maya or illusion — came during a period when Russell felt deeply called to Shamanism. Despite his resistance, the call persisted. Initiated through plant medicine ceremonies in Peru and Scotland, Russell surrendered to the Shamanic path. He also ran a thriving healing clinic in Brighton, weaving bodywork with spiritual practice.
Regression, Rage, and Release
His healing work deepened through Past Life Regression Therapy, trained under Andy Tomlinson’s academy. In these sessions, Russell uncovered and released ancient grief and rage, healing the wounds of past sexual trauma and stabilising his foundational energy. These profound inner transformations gave him the tools to support others on their healing path.
Coming Home to Serve
Russell's spiritual, therapeutic, and embodied wisdom all converged in service to others. Through deep listening, spiritual guidance, and grounded presence, he helps clients move through pain, remember their essence, and reclaim their sovereignty.
A Life in Devotion
Today, Russell lives in gratitude for the path he has walked, the teachers he has met, and the clients who continue to teach him. illumined is the living extension of that gratitude—a sacred space for healing, awakening, and remembering.
Even a small spark can change your mind — and that can change your heart.
