Picture this: Several years ago, in a cozy little Roman apartment by the Colosseum, our now-iconic tote bag sprang to life. We adored the message, but typical designs left us yawning. So, we decided to infuse our unique flavor. We splashed "Italy" in vibrant blue, inspired by the Amalfi Coast's breathtaking blues, and we garnished it with zesty Sorrento lemons. Initially, every bag was lovingly hand-painted, but the demand skyrocketed, and we had to embrace the printed version.
"I DON’T NEED THERAPY, I JUST NEED TO GO TO ITALY!" – A Doctor's Orders
Behind every unforgettable, side-splitting phrase that graces our clothes and accessories, there's a hidden gem of wisdom. Case in point: the ever-popular "I DON’T NEED THERAPY, I JUST NEED TO GO TO ITALY."
Meet Dr. Mediterranean: the reality is, sometimes we all feel like we could use some therapy, but deep down, we know a dip in the Mediterranean Sea would work wonders. That's not to say traditional therapists aren't valuable; it's just that Dr. Mediterranean has been practicing a bit longer, with commendable results.
When in doubt...
In this unique perspective, Italy boasts its own age-old therapeutic practice, with countless enthusiastic patients. When in doubt, a trip to the Italian peninsula might be precisely what the doctor ordered: "Take two weeks of this and call me when you get back!"
Starting the Therapy...
The 'therapy' begins at a charming little Pensione (a quaint inn) booked online, nestled in a picturesque seaside town in southern Italy. Just as you unpack your suitcase and open the shutters to the sunny sea view, the healing process commences. The beauty and fragrances dose can vary in intensity, but there have been no reported side effects in centuries of documented Italian therapeutic research.
The physical aspect of treatment involves leisurely strolls, shopping, and plenty of photo ops, all while communicating with the locals using the Italian hand-vocabulary, which proves surprisingly effective.
Italy’s Most Potent Medicine
As for the culinary part of the 'cure,' patients can source fresh fruits and veggies from local street markets, where friendly vendors might even help with translations. Alternatively, they can opt for a rustic Ristorante by the fisherman's port, with wobbly wooden chairs and blue-checkered tablecloths, to indulge in Italy's most potent medicine: her food (yes, Italy is female).
Pillow "I dont need therapy, I just need to go to Italy" ©Italian Summers
Beneficial Effects Emerge
As the sea-themed antipasto arrives, accompanied by a glass of local white wine, the beneficial effects kick in – relaxation, good humor, flavor euphoria, and the occasional bout of giddiness. The main course might feature delectable homemade pasta with shrimp, mussels, and zucchini sautéed in white wine, seasoned with Sardinian saffron and a dash of white pepper. After a leisurely, contemplative pause, gazing at the Mediterranean, it's time for an espresso.
And then comes the final part of the therapy: Signora Maria, the owner's mother, insists you taste her homemade Limoncello before you depart.
The Tranquil Siesta
Our patient is now ready for the crucial next step in the therapy: the siesta. As they make their way back to the Pensione, the cobblestones serenade them with the distant tinkling of forks swirling spaghetti on colorful Majolica plates. Even the birds seem to hush for lunchtime – 'l'ora del pranzo.' Finally, as they enter their room, a sense of calm and healing washes over them. They can close the shutters, lay on the fresh-scented sheets, and drift into a peaceful nap.
And that, my friends, is just one delightful way to kickstart your Italian Therapy session.
