Oberdan Marianetti, a man driven by an insatiable curiosity, embarks on a profound quest aimed at the betterment of not only his own life but also the lives of those around him. His journey is defined by a set of core values that guide his every endeavor. Oberdan places an unwavering emphasis on the importance of both physical and mental health, recognizing them as the cornerstones of a fulfilling existence.
In essence, Oberdan Marianetti’s mission revolves around the profound notion of alleviating unnecessary suffering by helping individuals reconnect with their purpose and innate power, thus paving the way for a more harmonious and fulfilling existence.
TELL US ABOUT HOW YOU STARTED WITH THE WIM HOF METHOD?
Around 2015, a video on the WHM piqued my interest. Initially sceptical, I later watched the entire video and discovered scientific papers supporting the method’s efficacy. As a curious, academically inclined person, I found the paper and read it. I was converted. I then started practicing alone at home, following the few videos that were available on the internet at the time. After a few years of practice, I decided to enrol in the programme and eventually completed all the levels to qualify as a WHM instructor.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED WITH THE WORKS OF INNER-BEING?
I have been curious about the workings of the mind for as long as I can remember. Even as a young boy of 6, 7 years of age, I remember observing people and asking myself why they reacted a particular way. This made for an intriguing journey of exploration, both with myself and others, but it was only later, as an adult, that I discovered Psychology and the opportunity to dive deeper into the topic. Today, I am fortunate enough to do what I love for a living, to transform my passion into a profession, where I can leverage my innate talents to make a meaningful impact.
WHAT HAS YOUR CAREER TRAJECTORY BEEN LIKE?
My career path has been an exciting and diverse journey fuelled by my love for learning and life-enhancing experiences. Beginning as an Officer in the Paratroopers Brigade in the Italian Army, after my departure from it, I relocated to the UK and my life took a completely different direction. I ventured into IT, progressing from desktop technician to an IT skills educator with my ability to synthetise complex knowledge and dispense it in a straightforward manner. Simultaneously, I was taking a Bachelor degree in Psychology, and transitioned into Leadership Development and Executive Coaching, both independently as well as in corporates. This path culminated in nearly two decades of corporate experience, reaching the position of Global Head of Learning and Organisational Development in a global Financial Services organisation.
A decade ago, after obtaining my doctorate in Clinical Sexology, I exited corporate to pursue my mission in helping individuals and set up my own private practice. Today I work full time as a Wellness Specialist, both as a Psychologist in clinical practice, as well as a retreat leader and speaker on topics of physical, mental and emotional health and in connecting fields such as organisational culture and DEI. I continue to support corporates with Executive Coaching bringing a more profound approach to Leadership and Talent Development with my psychological insights.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE THE MOST ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?
What I cherish most about my work is the privilege of doing something I genuinely love and there is nothing more powerful than operating from a place of authenticity with oneself and realising that it enriches ourselves and ripples out to benefit our loved ones and our communities.
DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN THREE WORDS.
Caring. Loving. Respectful.
TELL US ABOUT AN ACHIEVEMENT YOU’RE PROUD OF
One of the achievements I am most proud of is recognising that chasing achievements is a sure path to misery.
ARE YOU A VISITING PRACTITIONER AT ANY OF THE RESORTS AND WELLNESS RETREATS?
We are very proud that our company, OM-Wellness, has partnered with the COMO Hotels and Resorts group to offer our flagship personal growth retreat at their locations. It is a new partnership and we will be running our first event in December at their Bali COMO Shambala flagship resort. We look forward to develop this partnership and are hopeful that we will soon be offering our retreats globally with them and other partners with similar values.
WHAT DO WE EXPECT AT YOUR RETREATS?
Our retreats provide unique transformative experiences grounded in solid psychological principles. We blend physical, emotional, and mental approaches to help individuals overcome their limiting beliefs and rediscover their inner strength. Participants typically leave our retreats feeling more energized, purpose-driven, and with greater clarity about their life’s path.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND YOUR RETREAT?
Our retreat is designed for thriving individuals seeking that extra edge in life. It is also incredibly beneficial for those facing personal or professional challenges, as they can find valuable insights and empowerment. Participants who are on a personal development journey, having attended other retreats or done some personal work also find it extremely profound and different from anything they’ve done before. So whether someone is a beginner in their journey or has done advanced personal growth work, therapies and other programmes, the retreat will give them the learnings and tools to create a more balanced and meaningful life.
WHAT DO YOU DO DURING YOUR DOWN TIME?
I deeply enjoy physical movement hence I can often be found cycling, practicing yoga, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or doing some strength training. But I also love nature and studying, so I am often outdoor, or reading and researching a topic I am curious about. Family and friends are also important to me, and I dedicate as much time as I can to my partner, my family and friends.
YOUR MOTTO IN LIFE
“Live and let live”
BEST ADVICE YOU COULD GIVE ANYONE
Be you and aim to develop yourself intellectually, emotionally, physically and spiritually in as best and balanced a way as you can.
