Italian Girl Touch

  They say travel is one of the best ways to grow and enrich ourselves—and in my experience, it never fails. Recently, I journeyed to Southern France with the guitar duo I manage-  (the incredibly talented Duo Destino ) - expecting sun-filled days of music, beauty, and light-hearted work. But what unfolded was something else entirely: not just a trip, but a transformation. What started as a smooth run of gigs quickly became an odyssey. After the first performance, our motorhome broke down in the middle of nowhere. Every day that followed was a whirlwind of rescheduled shows, roadside repairs, new accommodations, and logistical chaos. And just when I thought the story was done, after a couple of extra weeks in France, a tyre blew out on the motorway—just thirty minutes from Limoges airport, where my flight home was waiting. Miraculously, thanks to efficient roadside assistance and a frantic taxi dash, I made the flight with only moments to spare. It was chaotic. It was challeng...

  By Gilda Notarbartolo, Italian Girl Touch What if a single habit could transform your mindset, reduce stress, and unlock a more fulfilling life? Gratitude, far more than a polite “thank you,” is a scientifically backed practice that rewires your brain for positivity and resilience . As a certified journalist and founder of Italian Girl Touch, I’ve explored how gratitude can be a game-changer for personal growth. In this article, we’ll dive into the science behind gratitude, its profound benefits, and practical ways to make it part of your daily life. You can also listen to this content in my podcast,  Onda Felice , available on Spotify and YouTube. What Is Gratitude and Why Is It a Superpower? Gratitude is the intentional act of recognizing and appreciating the good in our lives, from the smallest moments to the biggest wins. It’s not just about manners—it’s about training your mind to focus on the positive, even during tough times. Like a muscle, the more you practice grat...

  Positive affirmations are simple, intentional statements designed to challenge negative thoughts, reinforce positive beliefs, and foster a growth-oriented mindset . Rooted in the principles of cognitive psychology, affirmations leverage the brain’s ability to adapt and rewire itself through repetition and intention. In this article, we’ll explore the science behind positive affirmations, their benefits, and practical ways to incorporate them into your daily life for personal growth and a positive mindset. The Science Behind Positive Affirmations Positive affirmations work by influencing the brain’s neural pathways, a concept tied to  neuroplasticity —the brain’s ability to form and reorganise synaptic connections in response to learning or experience. When we repeat affirmations, we engage the brain’s reticular activating system (RAS), which filters information and helps us focus on what aligns with our beliefs. By consistently affirming positive statements, we can shift ou...

Ciao, bella crew! It’s Gilda Notarbartolo, your Italian Girl Touch guide, straight from the heart of Onda Felice and Smiley Frequency ! Picture this: a cozy morning with a steaming cappuccino, a notebook full of dreams, and a spark of inspiration to make today your day . That’s the vibe I’m bringing to this blog, where I’m sharing five game-changing books that flipped my mindset and set my soul on fire. These reads aren’t just pages—they’re your ticket to unlocking more joy, growth, and positive energy. As a journalist and content creator, I’ve poured my heart into curating this list, complete with links to grab your own copies (yep, they’re affiliate links to keep this positivity train rolling!). Ready to dive into a world of transformation with a touch of Italian flair? Let’s ride this wave together! 1. The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod Why It’s Life-Changing : This book introduced me to the power of a morning routine through Hal Elrod’s Life S.A.V.E.R.S. system —six steps ( Silen...

  Resilience is the bedrock of personal growth. It’s not just about bouncing back from setbacks but about transforming challenges into opportunities for deeper self-awareness and strength. In a world that often feels chaotic, cultivating resilience empowers you to navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence and purpose.  I’ll guide you through the science, strategies, and mindset shifts needed to build resilience and thrive. What Is Resilience? Resilience is the ability to adapt to adversity, stress, or trauma while maintaining mental and emotional stability. It’s not about avoiding pain but about growing through it. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that resilient individuals exhibit traits like optimism, emotional regulation, and strong social connections . Contrary to popular belief, resilience isn’t a fixed trait—you can develop it through intentional practice. Why Resilience Matters for Self-Growth Setbacks are inevitable. Whether it’s a career ...

  Mornings set the tone for the rest of the day. How you start your morning can shape your mindset, productivity, and overall well-being. Many successful individuals swear by their morning routines, and one of the most influential books on this topic is The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod. This book presents a transformative approach to mornings, designed to help individuals maximize their potential and achieve personal growth. The Miracle Morning Philosophy Hal Elrod’s The Miracle Morning introduces the concept of Life S.A.V.E.R.S., a six-step routine that fosters self-improvement and success: Silence – Begin your day with meditation or deep breathing to cultivate inner peace. Affirmations – Reinforce positive beliefs and intentions to shape your mindset. Visualization – Picture your goals and success to create motivation. Exercise – Engage in physical activity to boost energy and mental clarity. Reading – Absorb knowledge that inspires and educates. Scribing – Journal your t...