Tell us about yourself!
Hi! I’m Marianna Cuomo Maier, the founder of Grata Wellness and a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach based in New York City. I’m passionate about helping individuals take charge of their health, find joy in their lives, and feel their best from the inside out. I live the balanced lifestyle I advocate for by actively caring for myself through daily practices like gratitude journaling and outdoor walks. I also enjoy exploring new Italian restaurants and dancing with friends.
What inspired you to start Grata Wellness?
My journey into the wellness space began with my own experience of burnout, which motivated me to create Grata Wellness. My mission is to empower individuals to become their best selves and live a vibrant, joyful life. Fun fact: ‘Grata’ is inspired by the Italian word for grateful.
Before founding Grata, I studied Sociology at Yale University, worked as a pre-K teacher with Teach for America in Englewood, Chicago, and served as Chief of Staff at a health tech startup. These experiences of professional burnout led me to explore wellness practices like running, yoga, and meditation, which inspired me to start Grata Wellness.
I specialize in behavior change, burnout prevention, and stress management, offering personalized coaching, corporate wellness programs, and engaging workshops both in NYC and virtually. Sign up for a complimentary consultation here!
How do you live an Italian lifestyle living in the US?
The authentic Italian lifestyle offers many gems of inspiration for a happy, healthy, and balanced way of life. I embrace the Italian lifestyle in New York City by focusing on a holistic approach to health, such as eating nourishing, seasonal foods and enjoying meals with loved ones in a mindful, leisurely manner. I incorporate daily physical activity, like la passeggiata, the Italian daily walk, and prioritize relaxation and fun. By nurturing relationships and savoring life's pleasures, I integrate these Italian principles into my wellness coaching to enhance well-being and joy for both myself and my clients.
Favorite Italian food to cook?
I love trying new recipes, and my mom has taught me many of her delicious Italian creations. That being said, some of my favorite Italian dishes to prepare don’t actually involve cooking.
One such dish is pesto, which holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, my family and I would make pesto every summer after harvesting basil from our garden, filling the house with its delightful aroma. Making pesto pasta remains a cherished recipe for me. You can find my nostalgic basil pesto recipe here, which captures those fond memories and is both simple and delicious.
Though it doesn’t require cooking, I also enjoy preparing an antipasti plate. It’s perfect for entertaining guests, sharing a special meal with my boyfriend, or just treating myself to a beautiful spread.
Spritz or prosecco?
This is such a hard question to answer! During the summer, my favorite drink is a refreshing Aperol spritz, but year-round, I love enjoying a glass of Prosecco.
Favorite town on the Italian Riviera?
Though I haven’t visited the Italian Riviera since college, my favorite town is Santa Margherita. Its charming waterfront and lively local atmosphere offer a perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant Italian life. It’s a beautiful spot that captures the essence of the Riviera for me.
Go-to gelato flavor?
My favorite gelato flavor is nocciola (hazelnut). I don’t think I’ve met a nocciola gelato I haven’t liked.
Favorite Italian saying?
Dolce far niente, the art of doing nothing, is beautifully embraced by Italians. Contrary to the fast-paced life in NYC where I live, rest and leisure are crucial to productivity and happiness. Italians prioritize daily coffee breaks or an after-work aperitivo and cherish their vacations. Each of us can strive to incorporate time for rest and leisure into our daily routine. For ideas on how to embrace dolce far niente, check out my blog with tips on finding joy in doing nothing.
Any tips to learn the Italian language?
Funny enough, I’m working on my Italian skills daily through the Duolingo app. I first learned Italian as a young child at school. I would occasionally hear my mom and grandma speak Italian, though it stopped being offered at my school for middle or high school. I began beginner Italian again during my time at Yale and feel so grateful I was able to do a homestay in Siena where I was studying the language and living with an 80 year old nonna who spoke no English and through cooking, encouraged my proficiency.
Since college, I’ve become a bit rusty, but I believe consistent practice is key. I’m a firm believer that the younger you are to learn a language, the better, and it’s imperative you are being encouraged to speak and keep practicing.
The Italian Language Foundation, founded by my mother, Dr. Margaret I. Cuomo, supports Italian language education and encourages students to learn Italian. The Foundation offers awards, professional development for teachers, and supports the Advanced Placement Program in Italian.
Advice for other women pursuing their passions?
Identify your WHY. Ask yourself how your best self looks, feels, and acts. Reflect on your values, strengths, and priorities that fuel you and can inspire your goals. Being grounded in your “why” allows you to stay committed to your goals, consistently show up for yourself, and feel aligned with your intentions
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