Kia Ora: The Seed of a Calling | Kia Ora Healing
Kia Ora: The Seed of a Calling
How a childhood film, Māori culture, and healing shaped my path as a holistic guide
From Switzerland to a Dream Sparked by a Film
I grew up in a small Swiss village, surrounded by the rich blend of my Italian father’s roots and my Polish mother’s traditions. A pivotal moment in my life came when I watched “The Whale Rider” as a child. That story of a young Māori girl touched something deep in me — a sense of connection I couldn’t name yet. Years later, that spark guided me to New Zealand, where I would unknowingly begin a profound inner transformation.
In 2017, I chose Aotearoa to improve my English, traveling alone to the other side of the world. The initial fear gave way to a deep sense of belonging. I found a loving host family, and six months quickly became four years. Yet, it wasn’t always easy. Adapting to a new culture as an adult came with loneliness and emotional challenges — until one walk with a dog changed everything.
Discovering Healing and Māori Wisdom
A sign for “Gaia Holistic Counselling” caught my eye one day while walking with my beloved dog Ru. That encounter marked the beginning of my healing path. I found support and reflection, and through a series of serendipitous connections, I became involved with the National Council of Women and met my kaitiaki, Trevor Himona. These experiences deepened my connection with Māori culture and opened the door to Romiromi and Mirimiri healing techniques.
The Birth of Kia Ora Healing
In October, I participated in a transformative workshop with Jolie Davis. I was nervous — afraid I wouldn’t be accepted — but I was met with warmth, curiosity, and community. That experience, and the powerful Māori healing practices I encountered, helped me see my past with new eyes. Everything — even the pain — made sense. The seed for Kia Ora Healing was planted that day. What began as a journey to learn became a mission to guide others home to themselves.
🌿 Practice: Trace Your Origins
Think of a key moment that shifted your life’s direction. What sparked it? What values or emotions did it awaken in you? Write a short paragraph connecting that moment to who you are today.
Revisiting our beginnings helps us remember why we walk the path we’re on.
