When it comes to spending time with family, few scenarios are as precious or vital as being able to share food and good conversation with one another. There are numerous scientific studies to suggest the correlation between shared mealtimes, family cohesion and mental wellbeing, and yet it seems as though the majority of us take this time for granted. All is not lost though – it really is possible to reclaim treasured family time, and with very little effort through effective family dining.
Creating a healthy home
With the rise of the “junk food generation”, and generally busier lifestyles that leave little time for quality family moments, it can feel as though the tradition of sharing meals has been lost forever. Even if it’s only one meal a day, ensure that you take the time to schedule that family time – it’s time to sync your family calendars! Meal planners are also a great way to stick to a healthy diet, while communal shopping lists allow each member of the family to add the ingredients that they like. What dishes can you come up with based on the weekly shop, for example?
Adding the finishing touches to your dining room
Of course, one of the best ways to ensure that you’re able to enjoy meals together as a family is to create a space that everybody is keen to spend time in. While settling a tray on your lap as you watch television, or huddling several members of your family around a single breakfast bar can be fine on the odd occasion, it really does pay to have a proper dining room.
If you have been blessed with a separate dining room, think about the ways in which you can improve it. Perhaps it has become something of a junk room, or is a little too drab or cold for the family to spend any real quality time in. A lick of paint can do wonders, while the right accessories will ensure that your dining room becomes a place of comfort and beauty.
Affordable luxury shutters are a great way to control the flow of natural light into your dining room, transforming a dark, unforgiving space into something warm and welcoming. Light can be used to make any room cosy and inviting, so consider lamps, and ways to dress up existing fittings. Furnishings should be comfortable to encourage family members to take their time with meals, and you should consider the amount of clutter that’s on show.
Encouraging communication, the creation and strengthening of family bonds, and a healthier lifestyle, family mealtimes are one aspect of daily life that should not be ignored. It is more important than ever to make time for one another, and to take the time to prepare wholesome food that the whole family can enjoy. Having a dedicated space is a fantastic way to honour this age-old tradition, so take a little time to show your dining area some love – you, and your family will certainly reap the benefits.