In Italy, time with family and friends isn’t reserved for special occasions. It is a daily priority, often cultivated through aperitivo. On the surface, aperitivo is a pre-dinner ritual centered around small bites and a sensible amount of booze. It’s a fabulous excuse to show off your cooking skills with unexpected stuzzichini and wine pairings, or sip casually on a Hugo spritz. But the true meaning runs deeper.

According to Stef Ferrari, author of Stuzzichini: The Art of Italian Snack, aperitivo is a routine that can be built into our days, weeks and lives to cultivate community, family and even greater well-being. The practice gives us permission to just be and enjoy the little moments in life—the antithesis of America’s fast-paced, productivity-centered culture.