Before moving to the forest, Sissi and Paolo lived in Milan, with stable jobs and a structured daily routine. Despite material success, they felt a growing unease: they worried about wasting their lives in monotony, constantly stressed by the impact of climate change.

The decision to move to the forest stemmed from a desire to find freedom and embracing self-sufficient living. With a strong sense of faith in their journey, they took a remarkably bold step: leaving behind their home, mortgage, and jobs to embrace a life that felt more authentic and intentional.

Life in the forest, while deeply fulfilling, hasn’t been without its challenges. Sissi and Paolo renovated an abandoned farmhouse, transforming it into a self-sufficient home. With no prior experience, they learned to handle every part of the renovation, from plumbing to electricity, picking up new skills directly on-site. Despite the obstacles, every day in the forest became an opportunity to learn something new and rediscover the enthusiasm for life that city routines had completely drained.

Daily life in the woods

In their everyday life in the woods, even the simplest activities, like cooking or staying warm, require extra effort. Lighting the stove on a cold winter day or cooking without electricity has become a small triumph, deepening their connection with Nature.

One of the most profound changes Sissi and Paolo experienced was in their relationship with silence. At first, they used music as constant background noise to fill the emptiness and ease the feeling of isolation. Over time, however, they learned to appreciate the quiet of the forest and embrace the peace that natural sounds bring. This shift in perspective allowed them to develop a profound harmony with the rhythms of Nature, giving them a serenity they had never experienced in the rush of city life.

Living self-sufficiently and inspiring change

Back in the city, climate anxiety was a constant for Sissi and Paolo. Returning to Nature became the key to transforming this fear into creative strength. Immersing themselves fully in the wild life, they were able to reduce their impact on the Planet. Life in the forest taught them new skills, like starting a fire outdoors, identifying natural materials for construction, and practicing foraging, which means identifying and gathering edible foods in nature.

Thanks to this choice, the couple now manages to live self-sufficiently on about 100 euros a month. With their solar panels for electricity, a natural water source, and firewood for heating and cooking, Sissi and Paolo can finally say they are living completely off-grid.

The best part? They decided to share their adventure by creating Gli Eremitici (The Mythical Hermits), a YouTube channel where they talk about their life in the forest, offering tips, inspiration, and everything needed for anyone dreaming of a similar path. Through this, they’re proving that even with limited financial resources, it’s possible to create a life that truly reflects our values.

Connection with Nature and community

Life in the forest has allowed the Hermits to develop a deep respect and love for Nature. Winter brings snow and cold, but also the magic of seeing the forest transformed into an enchanted landscape. So, between one project and another, the Eremitici dedicate time to observing the small details of the natural world, which fill them with joy and wonder. When Sissi and Paolo talk about their newfound connection with Nature, their eyes shine with excitement: they describe it as an intimate journey, a gift that city life could never have offered.

Despite the isolation, they found a supportive community ready to welcome them. Local residents helped them in many ways, from giving them a refrigerator to assisting with construction work. This sense of solidarity has strengthened their feeling of belonging, proving to them that even in a remote setting, it’s possible to build meaningful relationships.

In a Nutshell

The story of Sissi and Paolo is an example of how a radical choice can transform life in unexpected and positive ways. By finding the courage to leave the city and live in the forest, this couple discovered a new form of freedom and a profound sense of fulfillment. Through their social project, The Hermits, Sissi and Paolo offer advice and inspiration to anyone dreaming of a life in contact with Nature. Their experience shows us that, even with limited financial resources, it’s possible to live self-sufficiently and create a life that truly reflects our values.