Newsletter No. 11 - August 12, 2025

A few weeks ago, my husband, Ryan, and I had the privilege of hosting a running camp for eight teenagers in the our region of Italy, the Maiella. Together, we explored rugged trails, visited ancient hermitage sites, and immersed these kids in the Italian way of eating (which, truth be told, presented its own unique challenge for some of them!). After the camp ended, many of the kids continued on with us to compete at the Youth World Skyrunning Championships in Gran Sasso, where the camp experience continued to ripple through their performances as they connected with other athletes from around the globe.

Amazing group of US athletes on the summit of Monte Amaro.

Exploring Eremo San Giovanni, a small hermitage built into the cliff. This refuge was inhabited by Pietro da Morrone, the future Pope Celestine V for nearly nine years.

I expected this group to challenge my fitness, but what I didn’t expect was how much they’d awaken my own inner teenager. Observing their nervous excitement, budding friendships, and even their attempts to hide or stand out, I was transported back in time. I could feel the echoes of my own adolescence—the longing to belong, the pain of feeling different, and the awkwardness of a body I didn’t always understand.

Those memories were sometimes tender, sometimes raw. Yet as I sat with them—not from the center of my teenage turmoil, but from the perspective of my present self—I felt waves of compassion wash over me. I could hold space for the girl I was, whose choices (good and bad) all came from her longing for acceptance and safety. I could see how those old wounds, though softened, still live in me.

And now, thanks to the VITA™ Method, I have the awareness and tools to meet her not with shame or judgment, but with love and kindness. I also have the presence to recognize when I am relating to myself or others from Teen Hanni or Present Day Hanni.

Exploring the moon-like landscape on the top of Mt. Amaro. These strong, young women just scrambled up almost 3000 meters of elevation, laughing and chatting all the way.

Coaching these teens reminded me that our need for love and belonging never leaves us. The deepest gift I can offer—to them and to myself—is to hold every chapter of our stories with tenderness. True empowerment isn’t about erasing our past, but embracing it, weaving it into the strength and beauty of who we are becoming.

This is what it feels like to come full circle: to coach the next generation, while also quietly shepherding my own inner child home.

Team USA at the Youth Skyrunning World Championships in Gran Sasso, Italy.

Brooke Greenberg had an amazing weekend taking home three gold medals!

Connecting with Other Women & Stepping Into New Adventures

Lately, I have been thinking a lot about how this current culture wants us to glorify youth, chasing after what fades with time. But these days, I find myself called to honor the phase I’m in—what I lovingly call my "Queen stage." Growing older has granted me wisdom, self-acceptance, and the power to nurture all the younger versions of myself who still dwell within. Perimenopause and menopause aren’t burdens I endure; they are thresholds I celebrate, rites that mark my journey into a more empowered life.

An unexpected joy was the chance to run and connect with several of the mothers who joined us for the camp and championships. There was a special magic in moving together through the mountains, sharing stories, laughter, and the unspoken challenges and wisdom that come with entering our Queen stage. In those miles, I felt the deep power of sisterhood—the way we lift each other up and remind one another how much we can grow, even as we grow older.

I can’t express how much fun it was to run in the mountains with these two bad-ass mamas! Thank you Laurie Greenberg and Courtney Marchetti!

These rich, soulful connections have sparked some beautiful new dreams in me.

First, I’m excited to announce an upcoming online women's circle.

Once a month, I’ll be hosting a gathering, totally free, where we will move energy and our bodies, I will lead somatic embodiment practices and meditations, and offer up time to share what’s alive or on the spot coaching. It’s a space for healing, support, and honest connection—a chance to show up exactly as we are and experience the strength of being witnessed. I will announce the date of the first gathering soon.

Secondly, I’m in the early stages of organizing a Women's Adventure Retreat here in Italy.

My vision is to explore the sacred, wild energy of the Maiella mountains together—adventuring, celebrating our bodies, and honoring the unique journeys we've each walked. We'll blend movement, somatic practices, heartfelt conversation, and plenty of time to soak in the stunning landscape.

As I begin creating this retreat, I would love to hear from you:

What would feel most nourishing and inspiring for you in this kind of gathering? What would you hope to experience?

Your ideas and desires will help shape these offerings into something truly meaningful and transformative. If you feel called to connect, join, or offer input, please reach out—I would be honored to walk this next part of the path together.

Wishing you a beautiful August and I look forward to hearing from you!

With love,

Hanni

Certified Advanced Rolfer™, VITA™ Intimacy Coach

From Teen Trails to the Queen’s Path: Coaching and Connection in Italy