Remember as a child when our parents encouraged us to sit down and eat? It’s an age-old practice. While we may not have fully understood the importance of this, there are many benefits.
Sitting down to eat is something that is practiced in many cultures worldwide. Whether we’re sitting around a table or on the ground, the common, shared practice is being seated while we eat. In fact, to sit on the ground and eat is a longstanding, ancient culture in many countries.
It is said to provide a peaceful state of mind, sense of calm and belonging, particularly when sharing a meal with family and friends.
Whether you choose to sit on the ground, around a table, or elsewhere, the key is to choose a place associated with eating and remove distractions. This includes watching television, checking your texts, surfing the web and social media, or working as you eat. Stop, and focus on the shear enjoyment of your meal, as well as the social element that comes with breaking bread with family and friends, if possible. It’s important for your health and wellness.
I realize that in a world where almost everyone is multi-tasking and rushing to get to the next activity or place, sitting down to truly enjoy a meal may seem almost impossible, even foreign. Many of us may have forgotten how to do this, including me. There are many a times when I’m thinking, let me grab a bite to eat while I work, so that by the time I’m done working, I’ll be able to get my exercise in.
I have been stopping myself lately. I put my computer aside and eat. Oftentimes we’re so busy thinking about the next task, or are on our phones, that we’ve quickly wolfed down the food and finished. Yet, many would not be able to describe what the food tasted like, or if they truly enjoyed it. Savoring your food is another way to show your appreciation to the chef, even if it’s you, and to give thanks.
Eating should not be viewed solely as a biological necessity, but more as something that is to be enjoyed holistically, nourishing the mind and body. When you sit down to a meal, practically all your senses come into play.
For example, you may have heard it cooking on the stove, you sit, see the scrumptious food in front of you, it smells delicious, tastes divine, you experience the various textures and flavors, as well as a sense of appreciation and calm. If you’re having a meal with family and friends, this is a shared experience.
Whether you choose to eat alone, or with others – practice mindful eating. Let’s get ready. Clear the clutter from your table (it may be full of work and school stuff); put your phones and computers aside, turn off the television or the news – grab a seat and enjoy your meal.
I appreciate what Health Consultant Lauren Parsons advises. She reminds us that “it is not the table that makes the difference, but the significance of having a certain place to eat. If that happens to be your back doorstep looking out onto a lovely view – great. The key is to have a regular place that you can associate with eating mindfully and being nourished.” I completely agree.
Bon appétit.
Have questions on how you can eat healthier or about healthy living in general? Share them with us. info@latropiqua.ca.
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel & check out our Let’s Talk Healthy Living Show. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9P2zVU2btkMaxLyeSjaJRA
(Another episode is coming soon)
Marlene Roache is a Healthy Eating coach. She is owner and founder of La Tropiqua – Healthy Living For Life Ltd.
www.latropiqua.ca
