Many wonder how it’s even possible to live in complete solitude, far from the chaos of city life. Paola, who left everything behind 18 years ago to live in a hermitage, offers us a unique perspective. Her story speaks of discovery, courage, and transformation.

Before retreating to the hermitage, Paola lived in the city, caught in a routine she found suffocating. As a mother of three daughters, she waited until they grew up and became independent before moving, in 2005, to an isolated refuge in the mountains. There, she found a space to rethink her existence, building a life grounded in minimalism, self-sufficiency, and spirituality.

Turning Fear into an Ally

What began as a near-impossible challenge turned, over the years, into a genuine haven of peace. At first, adapting to a life of silence, solitude, and self-reliance wasn’t easy. The early days brought fear and uncertainty, but Paola learned to coexist with her fears, transforming them into allies. This inner work revealed a strength she hadn’t realized she possessed.

Choosing a Different Life

Over time, Paola found in her hermitage not just a physical refuge but a sanctuary for the soul. Her lifestyle is no longer just a personal choice but a powerful message that resonates with those overwhelmed by the chaos of modern society.

Paola shows us that there is an alternative: a slower, more authentic life where the unnecessary gives way to the essential. In the hermitage, every object and every action has a purpose. For Paola, living with less isn’t deprivation—it’s about discovering what truly matters.

Her radical decision is a call to something universal: the desire to reconnect with ourselves. It’s not about escaping responsibility but having the courage to question conventions and choose a path that truly aligns with our hearts. Ultimately, this is a universal dream: the freedom to be authentic, free from pressure and expectations, deeply connected to ourselves and nature.

The Daily Life of a Hermit

Picture absolute silence, broken only by birdsong or the rustle of wind through trees. This is how Paola’s day begins. At three in the morning, while the world is still asleep, she rises to start her routine of meditation and prayer—a quiet dialogue with herself and the universe.

As the sun rises, the day unfolds. Summer brings outdoor tasks: tending to the garden, feeling the sun’s warmth on her face. Winter, on the other hand, invites more intimate activities. Every action—from gathering firewood, preparing simple meals, to collecting water—becomes a ritual of mindfulness, a way to honour what she has.

Through her life as a hermit, Paola has rediscovered pure joy hidden in the simplest of things: the scent of a flower, the taste of freshly picked vegetables, the crackling of a fire on winter evenings…Because, as she reminds us:

Each day is a gift, and nature teaches me that everything happens in its own time.

Connections That Nourish the Soul

Despite her solitary life, Paola has never given up on the warmth of human connections. She has built a supportive network with her neighbours and joyfully welcomes anyone curious about her world. Whether it’s a visitor or a friend, every encounter becomes a special opportunity for sharing and mutual inspiration.

Paola’s generosity shines through in her actions: helping those in need, offering comfort, and sharing the fruits of her veggie garden. Though she lives a solitary life, she believes human connections are essential for nourishing the soul. She often says that people bring light into her life, even from afar.

Spirituality and the Search for Truth

For Paola, living as a hermit is a deeply spiritual journey. Her search for truth goes beyond religious dogmas or rules, renewing itself daily through meditation and prayer. She believes that there’s no single path to truth—everyone has their own journey. It’s about feeling, listening to what stirs within, and observing without judgment, control, or resistance.

This deep connection with herself and the world around her gives her life meaning. It’s not about finding definitive answers but living each day as a step towards greater understanding. Paola reminds us that spirituality doesn’t have to be complicated: it’s in the little things, in the moments when we pause to listen to our hearts.

In a Nutshell

Paola’s story, living for 18 years as a hermit in the Italian mountains, is a powerful reminder of how simplicity and reconnecting with nature can transform our lives. Living with less to rediscover more: through her journey, Paola has embraced a life of essentiality, spirituality, and solidarity.

Her experience invites us to reflect and find joy in the small things we often take for granted. It’s a story of courage, discovery, and transformation—a gentle nudge to slow down, not to lose time but to gain life.