Food for the Soul
During the Holiday Season we’re bombarded with images of glittery decorations, gift ideas, cozy outfits, and delicious food. Lots of food! Sweet memories of good times with family and friends often revolve around the kitchen — the heart of the home. At Thanksgiving and Christmas, the chefs among us can shine and we all have a distinct relationship with food. As well as nurturing our bodies, food can also fuel our happiness — from bringing families together for social interaction to the spiritual practice of mindful eating. So, let’s talk about food for the soul, in all its elements.
We all have different traditions when it comes to the dinner table and certain ideas on what food represents. Food is a universal language and in every society gathering to dine is a time-honored tradition, especially during special events and festivals. What better way to be introduced into a new culture than to share in a hearty meal?
The delicious aromas of baking or a roast dinner can spark lovely memories of childhood. Don’t you just love those warm feelings of home and comfort such smells can evoke? But how many of us still take the time to slowly savor our food, and share lovingly prepared meals with others? In what’s become a rushed, frantic society, we often mindlessly wolf down unhealthy fast food. The very term fast food is awful when you really think about it.
Home Cooked Meals
Gathering around the table for a healthy, homecooked meal means more than just filling our bellies. It’s fellowship, time to laugh and joke, chat about the day, or plan the week ahead. This is important quality time to develop and nurture our relationships. Where does everyone go on first dates, or getting together with friends? We meet for dinner or drinks, amirite!
And speaking of restaurants, there’s nothing sadder than a group of people staring at their phones instead of socializing. So best to do the smart thing with our devices at the dinner table — put them away.
Preparing food and then consuming a meal while being conscious of our actions and grateful for the nourishment, has innumerable benefits. As well as health and wellness, we can also experience the pure joy of savoring flavors, food textures and just be in the moment. Many cultures have strict rules on how food is prepared and put great emphasis on the emotional state of the cooks, which can affect the energy of the meal.
Wouldn’t you rather eat something made with love and peace than discontent and anger?
Brighten the Mood!
Of course, you don’t always have to be in a group to enjoy the soul fueling benefits of food. Many people, especially the elderly, live alone or can’t be with their families, especially during these difficult times. But eating solo doesn’t have to be a lonely or sad event. Lighting a candle, setting the table, and playing soft background music while you dine, can do wonders for brightening the mood.
There are so many things that feed our souls — from nature and spiritual practices to books and theatre — and the food we eat is just one of them. Whether it’s comfort food or delectable gourmet treats, let’s continue to feed our souls in beneficial ways.
Gratitude
Above all when we share a meal or eat alone, we should express our gratitude. Let’s all give thanks this season for the abundance we enjoy.
And like a pop star from way back when once said, “You’ll always find me in the kitchen at parties.” Tell me that isn’t true. Don’t we always seem to gravitate to the kitchen?
Help is Available
For those who are hungry, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually, we offer you our thoughts and prayers this season of goodwill. Please find below some information that could help you in times of need and struggle.
Food Insecurity is on the rise. In 2020 60 million people relied on food banks and community programs to feed their families.
If you or anyone you know is food insecure, please contact www.FeedingAmerica.org — this non-profit organization has a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and programs, serving every community in the United States. State and federal programs have expanded so find out if you’re eligible for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and/or WIC (Women and Infant Children) and remember that Child Nutrition Programs provide in-school meals and meals and snacks during school holidays for all children.
Holiday Blues
If you or someone you know is feeling isolated, lonely, or depressed this holiday season here’s a useful article on ways to cope from the Mayo Clinic.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20047544
For emergencies here are some useful numbers:
SAMHSA National Helpline is a confidential hotline, available 24/7 in English and Spanish.
1–800–662-HELP (4357)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800–273–8255 (TALK) — available to anyone in emotional distress.
