Good Morning Lovelies, 

My dad was the Italian in our home and when I think back to the way that he liked to live his life, I can happily say that he lived it the easy way! Of course, it wasn’t without its issues at times, but ultimately, especially in his older years, he lived a more relaxed and peaceful life. 

Over the years, I have tried to embrace some of the things he did to improve my own life. Whilst I haven’t been as good at embracing them as he was, I have found that many of the Italian ways of living are truly wonderful. Therefore, I thought I would share a few parts of Italian living that I think we should all start doing to live a happier life lovelies. Lasagne every day, all day, is a must…

Start The Day In A Calm Way: Breakfast time in Italy is not about rushing around and making a big spread. Growing up, my dad would tell us that he had to wait to eat, enjoying a coffee and a few biscuits to begin with. This is something that is quite common in Italy, as they like to spend the start of the day in a calm and more mindful manner. It is the perfect way to help stop the stress of the day starting early, leading to higher levels of happiness throughout the rest of it.

Connection Is Key: It may seem like a stereotype that old men sit around playing games in the street whilst nonnas gather inside for a natter, however, these moments of socialising are key. Italian people are some of the friendliest in the world and will welcome you in and help you anyway that they can. Spend a moment every day chatting or socialising with people to bring this notion into your life. 

Enjoy Your Food: Italian food is the best in the world and they know it! Pizza, pasta, tiramisu and more! The dishes the country delivers are unlike anything else and I am proud to say that my family comes from a place full of culinary gods. Whether you go all out and make pasta from scratch or simply recreate an authentic dish the easy way, embrace the wonders of Italian food with pride. And if you can get your hands on some real nonna made dishes, stock up! 

Embrace Siestas: When I went to stay with my uncle in Sicily, I was often left dumbstruck when everyone would just disappear in the afternoon. Even my dad would go off and embrace a siesta. The idea of taking a nap and everything stopping is not something that we do in the UK but we really should embrace it. Being so busy all the time isn’t good for our happiness and seeing how much better people felt and seemed in Italy after their little breaks really made me believe that. 

Keep Your Home Decor Simple: Italian homes are not all about being fancy. They are places that are loved and lived in. Often, they will have little images, religious symbols and lots of tiles with patterns in them, yet they always feel cosy and loved. Instead of picking the most modern styles to pop into your home, embrace the idea of simplicity and cosiness. I love the way that the rooms reflect a holiday whenever I see them around where I live. 

Italian people are some of the best in the world and I am proud of my heritage because of them! Everyone is often connecting in some way and if not then they are often made part of the family upon first glances! Embracing these little parts of Italian life will definitely make you feel happier lovelies! Especially when it comes to the food and naps! 

Joey X