Gathering with loved ones over a meal is maybe the longest standing tradition of all time. It has been one of the most cherished times of my days here no matter what pain and chaos exists in the world and in my life. Breaking bread with loved ones is something to treasure.
Research indicates family meal time is also something to prioritize. Some commonly reported benefits include:
✨ everyone tends to eat healthier. More vegetables and less fried and processed foods
✨ better overall health
✨ higher academic performance
✨ lower rates of obesity
✨ children less likely to smoke, drink, or use illicit drugs
✨ conversational skills improve
✨ lower risk of depression
✨ lower risk of developing eating disorders
✨ parents are more likely to learn of a serious problem to be able to help or intervene
It doesn’t have to be elaborate. It doesn’t have to be anything specific, really. It just needs to be together. The more often, the better. Come together. Screens down and hearts and ears up. Enjoy the people around you. Make it light. Make it fun. Make it regular. It makes a difference.