7 Lessons We Can Learn from the Mediterranean Culture

As an American who has traveled extensively to Greece and the Mediterranean, I’ve noticed how many aspects of the culture lay in stark contrast with modern day-to-day life in the US (where I’m from).

Where I grew up in North Carolina, the culture has increasingly become more and more fast paced, the people less friendly, more sedentary, and individuals more isolated than ever.

I’m drawn to Greece. Not only do I believe God is calling me there, but there is also an attractiveness to how the Greeks do life. The Mediterranean lifestyle in so many ways has stood the test of time and offers glimpse into the past, along a wealth of wisdom and practices that can deeply enrich our day-to-day lives.

Their traditions prioritize community and provide valuable lessons in spirituality, hospitality, and a balanced approach to life.

Here are a few key lessons I’ve learned as a Christian American who has spent many summers on the Greek Island of Crete:

1. They Embrace Community and Fellowship

The Importance of Gathering Together

In Greece, community and fellowship are central to daily life. The community reminds me a lot of the church culture I grew up in but it’s not just relegated to members of the church, it’s deeply a part of the culture of all of the Greeks.

Between family gatherings, village festivals, church services, and every day life, they prioritize spending time with others. Regularly sharing meals, participating in communal activities, and supporting one another is engrained in their culture.

I think it also helps that often their villages and lifestyles are mostly set up to be able to be walkable. In that way, how they do life is totally different compared to the suburbs of the US where you have to get in a car and drive for at least 15 minutes to get anywhere… so naturally, they’re more social. They see people they know on the walk to the store, to work, church, and being able to meet friends in a cafe or lunch is much more accessible.

I spent three summers helping run a guesthouse in a small village outside of Chania in Crete. It was normal to walk to a restaurant in the village for dinner, for our neighbors to share a wheelbarrow full of their watermelons with us, and to my delight, one year, my timing was just right to be there for the annual watermelon festival. The entire village and then some spent hours eating food, drinking wine, dancing to live music, and we all were sent home with a big watermelon. It was one of my most favorite memories in Greece.

2. Practicing Hospitality

Welcoming Others with Open Arms

The Greek concept of philoxenia, which translates to "friend to a stranger," emphasizes the importance of hospitality (literally being a friend to strangers).

Greeks are known worldwide for their warm and generous reception of guests, often going out of their way to make sure visitors feel welcome and valued, it’s such a beautiful example of God’s love in action.

I’ve experienced this many times everywhere from public places like restaurants to strangers inviting me into their home for a meal. It truly is part of their culture.

We can adopt this attitude by opening our homes and hearts to others, practicing hospitality not only within the church walls but especially out in our communities. Welcoming newcomers, offering help to those in need, and creating an welcoming environment reflect the teachings of Jesus about loving our neighbors as ourselves.

3. Living a Balanced Life

Finding Balance in Daily Living

Greek culture emphasizes a balanced approach to life, often encapsulated in the concept of mesura, or moderation. This balance is evident in various aspects of their lifestyle, including diet, work, leisure, and spiritual practices.

Diet and Nutrition

The Mediterranean diet, renowned for its health benefits, focuses on fresh, local ingredients and a variety of foods in moderation. Meals are often enjoyed slowly and with others, making eating a social activity that fosters connection and enjoyment.

We can adopt similar practices by prioritizing whole foods, mindful eating, and shared meals, which can meet both our physical health and social needs.

Dan Buettner does a great job of exploring this in his documentary, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones.

Work-Life Balance

In Greece, the pace of life tends to be more relaxed compared to the fast-paced, high-pressure environments often found in the US. Greeks value their downtime. Work does not dominate their lives.

I always appreciate this balance when I am in Crete. Even though as a business owner and remote worker, I still work quite a bit, but I feel more balanced when my physical and social needs are also getting regularly met.

Afternoons in Crete include down time. What the Spanish call a “siesta,” the Greeks term it “mesi meri.” Evenings are spent with family and friends.

I know many Americans could benefit from prioritizing rest and relaxation, setting boundaries to make sure work does not encroach on personal and family time.

This more balanced approach, especially the Biblical practice of taking a Sabbath, can lead to reduced stress, better mental health, and a more fulfilling life when we don’t idolize work.

Leisure and Recreation

Leisure activities are an integral part of Greek life, with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities, social gatherings, and cultural events. Rather than binge watching tv on the weekends, many in the Mediterranean incorporate walking, swimming, and dancing, as well as attending local festivals and cultural events, combining physical activities with social ones that builds community… you all know how I love habit stacking. 😉

We can all benefit from incorporating more physical and social activities into our routines, exploring hobbies, participating in community events, and spending time in nature to revive our body, mind, and spirit.

Spiritual Reflection

In Greek culture, spirituality is woven into the fabric of daily life and while sometimes traditions become more religious in nature, this doesn’t necessarily mean these traditions are always monotonous or meaningless. It’s only when we are not mindful and sincere in practicing them and they become more religious than relationship based when they lose their meaning.

Regular moments for reflection, prayer, and participation in religious traditions often grow our sense of connection with God and bring us a sense of peace and purpose. We can learn a lot by integrating regular spiritual disciplines into our daily routines.

This could look like incorporating regular devotion or prayer time, attending church services, and participating in gatherings. Such practices help maintain a connection to faith and provide a grounding amidst life’s ups and downs.

Social Connections

Strong social connections are a hallmark of Greek culture. Families are typically close-knit, and friendships are nurtured through regular interaction and support. Social gatherings are frequent, and the emphasis is on building and maintaining relationships.

We can prioritize building and sustaining meaningful relationships within our communities and churches, recognizing the importance of support and companionship is key in living a balanced life.

Embracing Mesura

Embracing the concept of mesura encourages living a life of moderation, where excesses are avoided, and balance is a priority. This approach can lead to a more sustainable and content way of living, where materialism is not the primary goal, but rather a balanced and fulfilled life is pursued.

It’s important to regularly reflect and ask ourselves—Do my current lifestyle choices align with my values and promote my overall well-being?

4. Celebrating Faith

Integrating Spirituality into Everyday Life

In Greece, faith is not confined to Sunday services but is integrated into daily life. Church festivals, traditions, and rituals are celebrated regularly.

We can be encouraged to bring our faith into our everyday routines, celebrating religious holidays with joy and incorporating prayer and scripture into our daily practices. Building continuous connection to our faith can strengthen our spiritual growth and sense of community.

5. Valuing Simplicity

Appreciating the Beauty of the Simple Things

The Mediterranean lifestyle often emphasizes simplicity and contentment with what one has. This is reflected in everything from their diet, simplicity, as well as their leisurely pace of life.

We can learn to appreciate and find joy in the simple things, moving away from materialism and towards a more content and grateful way of living. This shift can lead to a deeper appreciation of God’s blessings and a more intentional and mindful life.

6. Engaging in Meaningful Conversations

Deepening Connections Through Dialogue

Greeks are known for their love of meaningful conversations, often engaging in discussions about philosophy, religion, and life. This practice encourages deeper connections and understanding among individuals.

A parea is a fundamental aspect of Greek culture, representing a close-knit group of friends who gather regularly to share life’s experiences, joys, and challenges. This concept goes beyond mere socializing; it embodies a deep sense of camaraderie, mutual support, and connection.

In a parea, conversations flow naturally, often touching on significant topics such as philosophy, politics, and personal matters, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding. The gatherings typically involve sharing food, drink, and heartfelt laughter, creating an atmosphere of warmth and inclusivity.

We can adopt this approach by leading open and honest dialogues within our communities, discussing matters of faith, values, and life experiences. Such interactions can lead to greater empathy, unity, and growth.

7. Honoring Traditions

Preserving and Celebrating Heritage

Greek culture places a strong emphasis on honoring traditions and preserving cultural heritage. We can learn to value and celebrate their own Christian and cultural traditions, passing them on to future generations. This respect for heritage can strengthen community ties and provide a sense of identity and continuity.

Final thoughts:

Spending time traveling has taught me so much about living other than way I grew up. Greece especially has broaden my horizons and show me more about how I want to build my life.

We can learn a lot Mediterranean culture and by prioritizing community, hospitality, balance, and meaningful traditions, we can lead to a more fulfilling, connected, Christ-centered way of living. These lessons, rooted in wisdom and Christian values, offer a way to deepen our faith and live a deeper, more connected lifestyle.