Greetings! I’m Mariella, the heart and soul behind Coaching by Mariella. I’ve dedicated the past eight years to studying stress management techniques, eating psychology, and other modalities that inform the profound connection between the body and the mind. During that time, I’ve become a certified expert in guiding individuals to a better sense of well-being. However, my passion for this path didn’t emerge in a vacuum; it sprouted from my own challenges and a profound need for effective tools to navigate my own struggles related to chronic stress, anxiety, perfectionism tendencies, and a complicated relationship with my body.
My relationship with food started at a young age. I was raised in New Jersey by European parents and traveled regularly to Europe where I got to experience how other cultures relate to food and their bodies. During my adolescence, I was a figure skater and became acutely aware of how different foods made me look and feel. I developed a negative body image and obsessed with diet and exercise to change the way I looked.
In the early days of my career in London and New York, the demands of a high-stress corporate job as an investment consultant and startup leader navigating the rigors of acquisitions and IPOs led to chronic health struggles that resulted in painful surgeries due to irritable bowel disease (IBS). But when trying to “fix my body” didn’t yield me the results I was seeking, I got curious about what was holding me back from feeling better, let alone feeling my best. I then realized that I needed more stress-coping mechanisms – more tools in my toolbox – and that’s when my coaching journey started, leading me to where I am today. So, for me, this work is not just a professional mission; it’s a deeply personal one.
My Why:
My story is one of transformation, of breaking free from the constraints of stress, self-doubt, and the relentless pursuit of meeting unrealistic expectations. It’s a process that has brought me to a place of inner peace, clarity, and joy. Since I have become more resilient to stress and learned how to wield it, my digestive issues are 90% cured and my body has shifted to be stronger, more resilient, and leaner. And now, I’m here to guide you on your own journey.
My mission is clear: to empower individuals to break free from their limiting beliefs, achieve lasting well-being, and unleash their boundless potential. This will help you tune in and feel your absolute best – both physically and mentally – so you can operate at your peak potential. Through Coaching by Mariella, I meticulously craft and implement personalized programs using both tried and true approaches and cutting-edge modalities, and apply them to the right coaching environment, whether in one-on-one sessions, group settings, or corporate settings.
My training:
My formal training includes certifications from iPEC (Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching) and the Institute for the Psychology of Eating. As a yoga instructor, I hold certifications in both Strala Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga, with over 250 hours of intensive training. Currently, I’m in the process of becoming a certified mindfulness coach, deepening my expertise in holistic well-being.
Over the past 5 years, I’ve had the privilege of leading numerous stress resilience and mindfulness workshops and hosting wellness retreats in diverse locations, from the vibrant energy of San Juan, Puerto Rico, to the bustling heart of New York City. Along this journey, I’ve had the honor of working with over 500 clients, each with their unique path to well-being.
What’s inspiring me lately:
As my work has progressed, one of the best byproducts has been to stop feeling guilty about the past or fearful about the future. Rather, I’ve learned to savor a bit of magic from the present, reveling in the beauty of each day, watching my two amazing young daughters grow and blossom, and exploring our new surroundings in Princeton, New Jersey with wonder.
I’m a firm believer in the power of movement, and you might find me enjoying long walks and invigorating exercise classes at studios like Locomotion, Gratitude Yoga, and Peaceful Pilates in the Princeton area.
When it comes to literature, I’m currently immersed in “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt and the illuminating “Living in the Light” by Shakti Gawain. In the realm of music, the beats of Black Coffee and Purple Disco Machine are my current companions.
As for self-care, and to reignite my meditation practice, I’ve embarked on a 30-day meditation challenge on Headspace. And while summer still lingers, I’m savoring the flavors of the season – tomatoes, peaches, and nectarines – with delight.
In my quest for holistic well-being, I’ve discovered some exceptional products that support my journey. From Coco June’s unsweetened vanilla yogurt to Cure hydration packs, these finds enhance my daily routines. A glass of water with lemon and a pinch of gray sea salt kickstarts my mornings, and I’ve incorporated FreshCap Thrive 6 into my daily coffee routine. To unwind, I turn to CBD and ashwagandha before bedtime.
Are you ready to embark on this empowering journey with me?
I’m excited to be your accountability partner throughout this process. Together, we’ll clarify your goals, identify challenges, and strengthen your intuition to achieve lasting change and experience more joy in life. Book a free 20-minute discovery session today and let’s dive into this process with curiosity, optimism, commitment, and grace.