Eating Together Around the Table: A Recipe for Connection
The holidays are coming which means it’s time for holiday traditions, spending time with friends and family, and of course lots and lots of food. It’s a celebration where we can share stories, and pass on traditions and recipes, while enjoying delicious homemade foods.
We often eat together over the holidays, but what about the rest of the year?
Life can get very busy, and whether it be stress, work, volunteering, or low energy levels, it can be difficult to make time to eat together. Eating meals with others is a way to boost your mood and support the well-being of both your mind and body. It’s important to think about doing this more than just a few times a year.
While the food may be delicious, it’s important to remember that eating together is also about talking with others and spending quality time together. How you spend this time is up to you, but it can be a chance to catch up, talk about your day and share exciting things that have happened.
For parents, it is the perfect time to teach kids about Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit. Kids often learn how and what to eat by watching others. At mealtimes, it is chance to show healthy eating to your kids and let them take part in making the food.
Making time to enjoy meals together doesn’t just happen, and it doesn’t need to be saved for a special time.
Here are some tips to enjoy eating together and add it to your calendar all-year round.
- Keep it Simple
Eating together doesn’t need to be hard, use what have. You can choose foods that are easy to make, and the meal doesn’t always have to include a homecooked meal. It could be as simple as having one-pot dishes like soup, stew or casseroles, sandwiches or making a tossed salad. Remember, the meal doesn’t have to be perfect, it’s the time together that counts!
For many people, it might not be possible to eat with others every day. You can start by planning one meal a week and add more if you’re able. Eating together can happen at any meal, so choose the meal that gives you the most time to talk and connect.
- Get Everyone Involved
Eating together is more likely to happen when everyone helps. Everyone can be involved in planning, shopping for and making food. Especially for kids, this can help teach them about healthy eating. Cooking together is a great way to connect with each other and have fun.
If you’re not confident in the kitchen, choosing simple and familiar recipes can help you enjoy your time, instead of trying to figure out the next step.
- Get Rid of Distractions
Invite everyone to the table, no one should feel left out. Try to keep things positive! People are less likely to want to join in on mealtimes if they feel unwelcome. You can also focus on enjoying each other’s company by getting rid of distractions, such as turning the tv off or silencing your phone.
Whether it’s with family, friends, neighbours, or co-workers, eating together is a chance to talk about old traditional and start new ones.
What can you do to get your friends and family together?