I Left the U.S. for Italy: 5 Habits That Italians Follow for Health, Longevity, and Happiness
When you think of Italy, images of pasta, wine, art, and history often come to mind. But beyond the beauty of its landscapes and culture, Italy also offers something deeper: a way of living that fosters health, longevity, and genuine happiness.
Thea Duncan Prando, who moved from the U.S. to Italy over 20 years ago, shares what she’s learned about the habits that shape Italian life. These practices might look simple on the surface, but together they create a foundation for a fulfilling lifestyle.
Here are five Italian habits worth embracing no matter where you live:
1. The Art of the Aperitivo
What Americans might call “happy hour” takes on a different meaning in Italy. The aperitivo isn’t about drinking—it’s about connection. Families, friends, and even strangers gather in the early evening to enjoy light snacks and a drink, but the focus is on togetherness.
This daily ritual bridges generations: toddlers sip juice, adults share cocktails, and grandparents join in the conversation. The true purpose is community, reminding us that life feels richer when shared.
2. Walking for Walking’s Sake
Italians practice la passeggiata—the evening stroll. Unlike exercise for fitness or errands, this walk has no destination. It’s about slowing down, being present, and casually running into neighbors along the way.
This ritual reflects an important truth: health isn’t only about physical fitness, but also about connection, routine, and giving the mind a chance to unwind.
3. Food You Can Trust
For Italians, food isn’t just about flavor—it’s about trust and respect for ingredients. The phrase la materia prima (the raw material) highlights their commitment to high-quality, fresh produce and seafood.
Buying directly from farmers and fishermen is common. Whether it’s strawberries harvested the day before or shrimp still moving, Italians value freshness and transparency in what they eat. Combined with strict food regulations, this approach means eating well without constant worry about quality.
4. Access to Good, Affordable Healthcare
In Italy, healthcare is treated as a human right. Unlike in the U.S., losing a job or changing careers doesn’t mean losing access to medical care. This security removes a huge source of stress and gives people peace of mind.
When health isn’t tied to financial instability, it becomes easier to live fully in the present.
5. Taking Vacation Seriously
Work is only one part of life in Italy. Vacations are considered essential, not optional. Workers are guaranteed at least four weeks off per year, in addition to holidays like Ferragosto in August, a tradition that dates back to the Roman Empire.
Even supermarkets close for weeks in the summer so employees can rest. This cultural respect for downtime ensures that time with family and friends remains a priority—and reinforces the belief that a life well-lived is about balance, not endless productivity.
The Italian Lesson
Italy’s habits aren’t about extravagance—they’re about intentional living. From sharing meals and slowing down to trusting your food and prioritizing rest, Italians remind us that well-being isn’t something you chase. It’s something you cultivate, one ritual at a time.
If you’re looking for ways to live longer and happier, perhaps it’s time to take a page from the Italian playbook.
👉 Which of these five Italian habits would you most like to adopt in your daily life?
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