Ep #32 Ultramarathons and Finding Flow, with Rosanna Bille

Join ⁠Rosanna Bille⁠ in this How To Die Happy podcast episode as she shares her remarkable journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformative power of finding flow. Hailing from the UK, Bali resident Rosanna is a mother of two and an inspiring ultra athlete who defied the odds to achieve extraordinary feats in long-distance swimming, cycling, and running.

Rosanna's story is a testament to the practice of discipline and surrender, crucial components in finding the state of flow. In a heartwarmingly candid conversation (there were tears all around) with hosts Martin O'Toole and Julia Malcolmson, Rosanna discusses her experiences with the For Rangers Ultra 2022 in Kenya and her love for ecstatic dance, revealing how these passions contribute to her remarkable journey.

Despite facing adversity through injuries, Rosanna's love for running from a young age fueled her determination to overcome obstacles and rediscover her passion for the sport. Despite being told by a surgeon in her early twenties that she would never again be able to run long distances, she defied the odds and emerged as an ultra athlete. She offers our hosts a detailed account of her recent participation in the women's Ultra 2022 event. Despite sustaining a significant knee injury on day two, Rosanna went on to win the race.

Throughout the conversation, Rosanna emphasises the significant roles that vulnerability and surrender have played in her journey. By allowing herself to experience a range of emotions during the Ultra 2022's challenging 230km five-stage run, she tapped into the profound depths of her inner strength, discovering the power to overcome incredible obstacles. This transformative process enabled her to excel in the ultramarathon, showcasing the potential within all individuals to become ultra athletes through practising discipline and surrender.

Another crucial aspect of Rosanna's journey is her ability to tap into the state of flow, a state of complete immersion and focus. By applying discipline, surrendering to the present moment, letting go of expectations, and fully connecting with her surroundings, she achieves a state of connection ("flow") where her performance and overall well-being are elevated to new levels. Rosanna sees flow as a constant in all aspects of life, complementing her fiercely competitive passion for success with her love for dance and living fully in the moment.

Looking ahead, Rosanna reveals her upcoming endeavour — Desert Ultra 2023, a 250km ultramarathon in Namibia, Africa. Through this new challenge, she aims to raise funds and awareness for children with brain cancer, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to making a positive impact as an ultra athlete and activist.

Rosanna's journey serves as an inspiring example for individuals seeking to push their boundaries, discover their flow, and live life to the fullest. Tune in to this episode of the How To Die Happy podcast to hear Rosanna's incredible story of determination, resilience, and the transformative power of surrender and flow as she navigates the world of ultra athletics.

Rosanna is looking for sponsors! If you'd like to support her upcoming ⁠ultramarathon⁠ in Namibia this November, contact her directly at rosannamorani@icloud.com. Check out her Instagram ⁠here⁠. 

The only thing left is for us to wish Rosanna the best of luck in the Desert Ultra 2023 in Namibia! Rest assured, we'll have her back on the show right after the race is done and dusted.