From the picturesque village of Fontevivo in the heart of Parma, Italy, Giovanna Baistrocchi, embodies a spirit of curiosity and a thirst for knowledge that transcends borders. With a keen interest in foreign languages, Giovanna embarked on a journey to explore diverse cultures and venture beyond her homeland.
Her passion for learning about different cultures led her to the verdant landscapes of Ireland at the tender age of 16, where she based herself in the vibrant city of Dublin. This experience marked the beginning of her adventures abroad and ignited a lifelong love for exploring new horizons.
Speaking to UrbanABC, Giovanna recalls, “I studied foreign languages as I wanted to learn about different cultures and travel abroad. The first time I travelled to Ireland I was 16, and it was on for study holiday in Dublin”.
Throughout her academic journey, Giovanna found solace and inspiration in subjects that delved into the depths of human thought and ancient wisdom. Philosophy, Latin, and classical studies became not just academic pursuits but avenues through which she could unravel the complexities of the human experience and connect with the rich tapestry of history.
In the realm of career transitions and personal growth, Giovanna’s story shines brightly as a beacon of courage and determination. Having spent years immersed in the world of organising congresses and events, the realisation dawned that a profound shift was needed. The feeling of being misplaced lingered, prompting a period of soul-searching and contemplation.
A quest not merely for a new job but for a deeper alignment with personal aspirations led to a moment of clarity where the whisper of a true calling emerged. The revelation that the heart yearned not just for a different job but to walk a total different path.
“I spent many months just looking for a job whatever to be out of there, and never worked, until I learned that I needed to direct my energy on the path that I really wanted to walk, because yes I wanted to change job, but above all I wanted to be a holistic therapist”.
This metamorphosis from a career in event organisation to the noble pursuit of becoming a therapist encapsulates the essence of following one’s true passion. The journey of self-discovery, though challenging, ultimately led Giovanna to the profound realisation that redirecting her energy towards the desired path was where true fulfillment lay.
“I had a desire to help inspire and uplift, to instill hope and encourage in others to embrace their paths towards fulfillment and joy”.
The profound feeling of yearning to make a difference in the lives of others, to serve as a guiding light on their journey towards personal healing and happiness, was the inspiration for Giovanna’s journey
“When I started my personal healing, I asked my teacher “How long does it take to feel good with myself again?”. I am surprised that she wasn’t laughing, she kindly explained to me that healing was a personal path and each one of us has different steps to make.
“Likewise when I started to work as a holistic therapist my first client asked me “How long does it take to feel good with myself again?”, and I remembered that I thought God you really have some funny plans”
Embarking on a new journey within a chosen field, the question often arises: “If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting out in your field, what would it be?” The answer, from Giovanna, simple yet profound, resonates with the essence of authenticity and genuine self-expression.
“The key is to be your authentic self. By staying true to your unique identity, values, and aspirations, you naturally attract individuals who resonate with the real you. This authenticity serves as a magnetic force, drawing like-minded souls who appreciate and connect with the sincerity and integrity you bring to your work”.
Giovanna embodies a deep reverence for nature, finding solace and inspiration in the whispering trees of forests and the gentle melodies of rustling leaves. Her love for walking in the woods transcends mere physical activity, becoming a meditative communion with the earth’s natural beauty.
Beyond the serene embrace of nature, she finds joy in the vibrant rhythm of Latin music and the invigorating movements of Zumba. Attending dancing becomes a form of expression, a language of the soul that speaks volumes of her passion and zest for life.
Her wanderlust spirit takes her on journeys far and wide, exploring new cultures, landscapes, and experiences. Through reading and traveling, she immerses herself in the diverse tapestry of the world, enriching her mind and soul with each adventure.
At the heart of her being lies a deep sense of community and connection. Giovanna cherishes the sacred tradition of holding women’s circles under the full moon, witnessing the bonds of sisterhood strengthen and the collective spirit soar. Each monthly gathering is a testament to the power of unity and growth within a supportive community. Giovanna works as an Energy Therapist and Somatic Coach in Portadown delivering weekly meditation classes from Portadown Town Hall.
In Giovanna’s world, nature’s whispers, rhythmic dances, literary adventures, and communal gatherings intertwine to weave a rich tapestry of experiences and passions. Her journey is a testament to the beauty of embracing life in its fullest expression, where each moment is a celebration of authenticity, connection, and growth.