Lots of families don’t dine together anymore. Busy schedules, chaotic work hours and a generally individualised society don’t always allow it. However, families who set out a dedicated time to break bread together are reported to be healthier and happier. This is how you can take back this sacred time.
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In an increasingly digital world, the tradition of families dining together has faded. Nowadays, we order in, or eat alone while binging series or watching television. Or if the family lives together, meals are taken in different rooms and at different times. Studies have shown that communal dining is on the rise, driven by younger generations. And it shows a deep need to connect. Perhaps this is the time to reclaim supper time, to bring back that moment at the end of the day that we can decompress and bond with family.
How we lost the family supper
Families don’t work, eat or move like they used to, all due to modern life. Different schedules, longer working hours and activities have made it harder for families to align timetables. Convenience plays a role as well, with services such as food delivery apps and convenience meals rendering the act of eating to a chore, rather than a time to connect.
Technology adds to the issue, as phones, TV and tablets are often a part of the supper experience, splitting people’s attention and conversation. Over time, the kitchen and dinner table have lost their role as a gathering space for the family.
The benefits of eating together
Research shows that sharing meals with your closest familial ties are linked to better communication, lower risk of depression and emotional well-being. It’s also a good example to set for children, who develop healthier eating habits, better language skills and a greater sense of security.
For grown-ups, dedicated supper time signals a natural pause in the day. It’s a chance to unwind, disconnect from technology and connect with people to be fully present. Because conversation is essential, it also promotes mindful eating: we’re not scoffing food down but taking breaks between bites. And most importantly – and this is what we’ve actually lost – it reinforces a sense of belonging.
How to reclaim the tradition
- Start small: Suppers don’t need to be perfect. Aim for one or two meals a week and make these non-negotiable.
- Keep it simple: A feast might feel like overkill. Tray bakes, pasta or even leftovers are just as meaningful.
- Go tech-free: Set boundaries around screens, even if it’s just for the meal.
- Involve everyone: Let children set the table, and share highlights of the day while preparing the food.
Final thoughts
In a frenetic world, let the supper table be the anchor, the one place where families can connect. Reclaiming shared mealtimes is about choosing presence and togetherness. With a bit of planning, you can strengthen the bonds in your family one meal at a time.
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Featured image: Pexels
