It’s always been a time to connect and enjoy delicious food and good people when you dine together at a table. But, as people grow older, they tend to eat more on the go, grabbing a breakfast bar on the way to school or work or a salad in between courses or meetings. It’s not uncommon for people to eat on the move or in front of a computer or TV because of their hectic work schedules and family obligations. But, if you’re going to consume your food, here are three good reasons to do so on dining tables. And if you make this a regular practice, you will benefit from slowing down, being present, and connecting with people.
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Slow Yourself Down
Your hectic schedule will be put to the test when you sit down to eat with your family and friends. To combat emotions of stress and worry, it puts your fundamental needs first. Taking time off from your everyday routine allows you to concentrate on taking care of your body, mind, and relationships. Also, you’ll feel less harried and better prepared for the day ahead of you if you take the time to sit down and have breakfast in the morning. You’ll be able to handle whatever the day throws at you better if you tell it to wait a minute.
And when you’re hungry, even if your workdays are already jam-packed, consider taking just a 30-minute lunch break every few days and decide not to work during that particular period. In addition to a much-needed vacation, you’ll likely be more productive after your time away from the office. So, try preparing a lovely supper with a friend or a loved one for the evening. And when dining out or at home, take some time to be fully present in the moment. See how much your body and mind can relax.
Be Present
You’re reading this post because you’re using technology, but it may also keep you from being present, particularly at dining tables. To be present with your body and mindful of your own needs is difficult when you’re constantly checking your email, searching for the best price, or scrolling through social media to see how amazing the lives of your friends are.
Eating with others at a table is an excellent way to practise paying attention. As a result of taking the time to sit down and eat, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the tastes of your food and listen to others. It also aids in self-awareness, allowing you to recognise when you’ve had enough food and should put down the fork.
You can even make it a game by pushing yourself and others to disengage from electronics while at the dinner table. For instance, it’s a good idea to place your phone face down on the table if you’re having a meal with other people. The first person to reach for theirs gets to choose between paying the bill or doing the dishes. This way, everyone is on the same team, and you can all have a good time cheering on one another.
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Reach Out and Make Friends
Whether you’re eating by yourself or with others, you’re less likely to have meaningful conversations when you eat while driving or in front of the television. But if you’re sitting at a table with loved ones, you’ll be able to share treasured moments like the time Johnny fell out of his chair laughing so hard or the time Aunt Sally thought sugar was salt and poured it over her chicken.
Having a meal with friends and family is all about eating and having fun together. Because they take longer, people have more chances to get to know one another. So, make an effort to get to know a coworker by inviting them to lunch. For a get-together with old friends, plan a three-course meal that includes appetisers, a main course, and dessert, where each guest is asked to bring a different dish to share. Make it a point to enjoy Sunday supper together as a family as soon as possible, and the menu might be assigned to a new individual each week.
