Marc Cinanni

Marc Cinanni’s Inspiring Life Journey

In a captivating episode, we interview Marc Cinanni, a multifaceted artist, writer, and retreat founder whose life reads like an adventure novel. Born in Ottawa to Italian immigrants, Marc navigated a dual existence—immersed in vibrant family traditions like accordion-filled picnics while adapting to Canadian school life. His family, steeped in education, provided a strong foundation, though he humorously notes the “blessing and curse” of having relatives as teachers and principals.

At 20, Marc moved to Toronto for studies in arts, then bought a one-way ticket to Europe, landing in Switzerland. There, he manifested his dream job at the United Nations through visualization techniques—negotiating contracts for global infrastructure like water pumps in Ethiopia. For seven years, he coordinated from Geneva, liaising with governments and funders.

Burnout led to a pivot: quitting the UN to pursue writing. Health issues forced a return to Canada, where he channeled experiences into writing a fiction-novel about Italian-Canadian life. Accepted to Oxford for an MFA in creative writing, illness interrupted, but recovery sparked profound growth. A month at a West Indies ashram for healing introduced meditation, yoga, and self-care, emphasizing body awareness as one’s “spacesuit” for life. Inspired by ashram chants, Marc formed the band Mantranima with partner Esther PallejĂ , blending world music with Sanskrit lyrics and Mediterranean vibes. 

In 2018, seeking simplicity, they sold everything and relocated to remote Hornby Island, Canada—a utopia of 900 residents, sea lions, and no distractions. Amid challenges like isolation and storms, they homeschooled their daughter, harvested rainwater, and created album “Trees and Shadows,” reflecting reconnection with nature.

The pandemic displaced them, prompting a return to Barcelona. There, they founded Muntanya MĂ gica, a forest retreat in the Penedès wine region. Offering cannabis wellness, writing, performance, and couples retreats, it fosters disconnection from modern noise. Marc’s philosophy: Let life flow, embrace fear as courage, and visualize goals. He advocates simple, local eating—growing food, bartering with neighbours—and views children as life’s best teachers.

As he gears up for Muntanya MĂ gica’s, his mantra resonates—positive vibes, authenticity, and adventure await those who dare.

Interview

The Many Lives of Author/Musicain Marc Cinanni | IN-DEPTH SPAIN

Website
https://www.muntanyamagica.com

Amazon Books
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0875SWZY1

Mantranima Music
https://www.youtube.com/@Mantranima

Documentary