The Mediterranean Lifestyle for Wellness
Italy is known for la dolce vita, the sweet life. It’s also known for endless pasta, pizza and gelato. Even with all these carbs and so-called “non-diet” foods, the Mediterranean diet is actually known as one of the world’s healthiest.
Living in Rome is magical for so many reasons, but I had no idea how incredible it would be for my health!
Italy is known for la dolce vita…the sweet life.
It’s also known for endless pasta, pizza and gelato.
Even with all these carbs and so-called “non-diet” foods, the Mediterranean diet is actually known as one of the world’s healthiest.
The food quality is better here. More nutritious ingredients create healthier food.
The portions are smaller. A bowl of pasta is half the size of what we’re used to in the U.S.
They use local and seasonal produce grown in better soil (the less chemically altered the soil, the more nutrient dense the food is that is grown in it).
People take their time to eat. Meals are slow. They eat in community, with friends and family. They truly love and appreciate their food. Italians can talk for hours about food. It’s a major part of life here…something to be fully enjoyed.
It’s easy to eat well here.
And also easy to eat plant-based, which many people are surprised about.
A simple pizza rossa (pizza with homemade dough and tomato sauce). Spaghetti pomodoro. Artichokes. Grilled seasonal vegetables with olive oil. Bruschetta. Bean soups. Farro and other whole grains. Cicoria (my favorite bitter greens). And so much more!
Food is part of life, and it should be a pleasure!
The Mediterranean way of eating and living is intuitive. It’s not just about what you eat, but how it’s prepared, the quality of the ingredients, and who you eat it with. It’s about eating what you want to eat without guilt or thinking it’s “bad.”
It all affects overall wellbeing.
The lifestyle also includes daily passeggiata…walks with family and friends in the afternoons or after dinner. It’s such a beautiful tradition that also makes so much sense for health and wellness. Walking is wonderful for health, getting outside, being part of community, enjoying the beauty of the surroundings, whether in a city, small town, or by the sea.
Most people don’t stress about what they eat here or dieting. If it’s starting to seem a little that way it’s more due to U.S. influence and not true to Italian culture.
There is no fear of carbs here, or of eating fat. It’s normal to see plates of pasta enjoyed, tons of heart healthy olive oil poured on salads and vegetables, or to see people walking with a gelato in hand.
Since I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, I see the significant difference in lifestyle.
Yes, LA has one of the largest health and wellness communities in the world, with yoga and fitness studios and gyms on every street, health food stores, farmers markets and many vegan restaurants.
But when you look at true wellness, which also includes emotional and mental well-being, stress reduction, community, and daily habits, the Mediterranean lifestyle comes out way ahead.
I incorporate nutrition guidance and wellness habits based on the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle into my clients’ programs because it’s such a key component to vibrant health.
Eating what you love that also nourishes you.
Enjoying seasonal foods that are fresh and naturally organic.
Walking for the pleasure of it. Exercise that comes with ease.
Spending time in nature, whether at gorgeous parks, by the sea, or even relaxing in the sunshine in a piazza while people watching.
Feeling part of a community that fills you up, and a strong social circle.
Finding creativity and inspiration where you live through music events, museums, art, architecture or whatever fuels your passions.
Living a more slow paced life, where quality of life is the most important thing.
These are all elements of the Mediterranean lifestyle, and you don't have to live in Italy to incorporate them into your life (but I do highly recommend it!)
Questions or comments? Feel free to contact me at jenny@brillarewellness.com. I love to connect with my community!
Sending amore,
Jenny
Food, flowers, and a taste of life in Rome!
Jenny Geyser
Founder of Brillare Wellness - Vibrant living the Italian way!
Certified Yoga Instructor E-RYT 500
Certified Personal Trainer
Certified Nutrition & Wellness Coach
Mediterranean Diet & Lifestyle | Plant-Focused
Yoga & Fitness OnDemand | Wellness Lifestyle Blog | Soul-Nourishing Retreats
Instagram: @jennygeyseryoga @brillarewellness
Based in Rome, Italy
Join me this summer in Puglia, Southern Italy, for an incredible retreat experience in the most beautiful place on the sea! June 30th - July 6th, 2025. Details here.