The heart of a household is oft found betwixt the walls whereupon family doth convene. Within these four walls, there be rituals, traditions and moments shared, each being of great importance for the binding of familial ties. Of these treasure moments of togetherness, naught is more prevalent and significant than gathering together to break bread.
Verily, the union of family around a sumptuous meal can bring great sustenance to body and soul. Such an occasion provides a chance to converse, laugh and share one an other's company. Oft, such a meeting is full of joy and revelry, but alas! Such merriment can be scarce if there be not proper planning and forethought put in beforehand.
In these tumultuous times, 'tis difficult to make time for a proper meal together as a family. There be obligations of work that can keep one from their loved ones and many within the household succumb to late meals or snacking rather than gathering for a healthy meal prepared in the home. Such is thine unfortunate reality for many households in this day and age. Yet! There be great benefits of sharing a meal with love ones that should never be overlooked or neglected.
First and foremost, dining together with family creates an opportunity for connection and meaningful dialogue between family members. Rather than watching screens or delegating responsibility to other means of caretaking such as au pairs or day care for small children, coming together for dinner provides an intimate arena in which family attendees can genuinely connect with one another.
Moreover, shared meals will benefit those attending in that they may learn proper etiquette and manners that will stay with them throughout their lives. Those gathered will become more familiar with their societally accepted customs and courtesies which many deem important to a child's development.
Most greatly, however, is the immense benefits that communal dinning has upon one's health. Eating as a family encourages healthier eating habits as well as teaching moderation with food consumption; members will oft abstain from overindulging when there is 'accountability'. Additionally, studies have suggested that children who dine with family at home are less likely to partake in unhealthy behavior such as smoking, drug use or any other adventurings into negative activities.
It is thus clear that the importance of coming to the table with kin is supremely beneficial in many ways beyond mere nutrition. To aid in making such a task enjoyable, 'tis oft useful to make it fun for all who attend. Planning one's meals in advance will not only make such endeavor efficient but enjoyable as well, when one may create recipes with all attendees in mind rather than last minute emergency fare.
In addition, allocating responsibilities during meal preparation can ease burden and make task more delightful; tending to hearthside duties together can bring great joy! Setting up a festive atmosphere may also lend to said joy; lighting candles or playing music will help set the mood for conversation and good spirits!
Alas! 'Tis our duty as families to come together around the table not only for sustenance of our physical bodies but sustenance of our hearts and souls through connection and dialogue. Make time during each week's schedule to sit down with your folk; breaking bread together will strengthen bonds and provide manifold benefits beyond what one could imagine! Take a moment today to celebrate your family by gathering around the table and making merry over a lovingly prepared meal!