Since 2011, Claudio has translated and edited more than 500 articles and five books which explore the various connections between Western psychology, Eastern religions and healing systems (Tibetan medicine), and meditation practices.

Since 2020, Claudio is also a Flower Essence therapist, having completed a training with Ian White, founder of Australian Bush Flower essence Inc. in Sydney. Flower essence therapy became for him an invaluable tool to understand the subtlety and wide range of emotions we feel and how to address them at the energetic level. Moreover, Claudio found flower essence therapy to be a potential support for meditation practice, as it deepened and complemented the understanding of mental and emotional patterns.

Can you tell us a little bit about your background before joining Endeavour?

Before moving to Australia in 2009, I worked for the Italian Publishers’ Association in Milan as well as a book distribution company, where I was introduced to the work of renowned journalist Tiziano Terzani, who wrote extensively about Asia, especially Chinese and Indian culture, way of living, and politics. I immediately fell in love with Asia and decided to begin a new life in Australia, where I studied Economics and International Business at the University of Sydney and was later involved in the organisation of the Dalai Lama’s tours in 2011, 2013 and 2015 as a volunteer coordinator and other event management roles.

Meeting the Dalai Lama in person and working for his tours was a life-changing event, and after immersing myself into various meditation practices and translating five manuals on this topic, in 2018 I developed a new course based on the framework of Mental Balance devised by the renowned meditation teacher, Dr. B. Alan Wallace, which began to be offered at Endeavour College later that year.

What made you decide to pursue a career in natural health?

I’ve always had a passion for healing, and initially my search led me to pursue meditation, but after some reflections, I also realised that I needed to investigate the body-mind connection, and this brought me to study Flower Essence therapy. I initially joined Endeavour by offering a new course centred on mindfulness, but after some research, I recognised the common ground between meditation, qi gong practices, and Aboriginal healing traditions, and began to understand the underlying connections between all these holistic practices.

Indeed, I had my small Eureka moment when I discovered that the Latin root of the word meditation (medēri) means indeed “to heal”! So, I thought there was a need to combine various wellness practices that explore the body-mind connection for holistic healing.

What is the most rewarding thing about your job?

I’ve been working for Endeavour since 2018 and the most rewarding aspect of this job is the richness of the relationships I’ve developed with students. In one of the subjects I teach, History of Healing, we have weekly forums with students on various topics, and I always feel so happy when students share their journeys of personal healing – a deep connection is established, which is very rewarding for me and enriching for the student’s learning experience.

What motivates you?

I have a deep interest for exploring the connections between various healing traditions – especially indigenous ones – for the sake of helping people lead the healthiest and happiest lives they can.

Is there a piece of advice you can share with people interested in pursuing a career in natural health?

Before pursuing a career in natural health, ask yourself: What do I really want? What would make me happy? Then analyse and reflect on the current conditions of your life – is there anything you want to change? Are there any nagging physical, mental or emotional symptoms that you have overlooked till now? In order to help other people heal, we need first to help ourselves – to heal mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically. Your healing journey will then inspire others (your clients, friends, family) to do the same!

What’s one piece of wisdom that you apply to your career?

I know it seems a platitude, but I can’t find another way to put it: Don’t be too afraid of the unknown and the mistakes that you’ll naturally do along the way. Have confidence that if you have the motivation and commitment to help others, help will also come to you in many forms – just be mindful 

And then, also make sure to enjoy the daily moments of happiness you can always have each day – don’t be too caught up in your projects all day long, but allow yourself some rest by following your breath. Your breath is your closest friend – it is the vital force that sustains us each day, and it’s the foundation upon which all the major healing traditions are based (Ayurveda, Chinese and Japanese medicine, Tibetan medicine, and all the indigenous healing traditions) – there must be a deep reason for it, don’t you think?

Which short courses would you recommend to people pursuing a career in Mental Health and Wellness?

The online short course Wellness Practices: tools for balanced living allows students to explore techniques to achieve mental and emotional balance, improve sleep quality, integrate physical activity in daily life, and learn beneficial eating habits. Students will be introduced to the power of mindful breathing for developing relaxation, stability, and clarity of mind. The course includes insightful reading materials, videos, quizzes, and many additional resources, allowing students to discover practical tools to navigate challenging times and live healthily and meaningfully.

Can you share a career highlight?

In March 2021, I had the good fortune to meet and receive treatment from an Aboriginal Ngangkari healer based in Adelaide. It was a very deep experience for me, as I was able to connect with her wisdom and learn from her this ancient practice of healing that has been passed down from one generation to the next literally for tens of thousands of years – watch this inspirational video where you can learn their healing stories.

What’s the most memorable experience or moment you’ve had at Endeavour?

I’d say, after meeting the Ngangkari healers, the other memorable experience I’ve had at Endeavour is to see Dr. Alan Wallace teaching on mental resilience at the Melbourne Campus: A Key To Mental Resilience: A Meaningful Life | Endeavour College

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Easy – swimming, scuba diving, bush walking, and meditating!

Interested in Mental Health and Wellness?

Set the pace towards a happier, healthier you. Find out more about Wellness Practices: tools for balanced living, one of our Mental Health and Wellness Short Courses.