01 Oct 2018
A common activity at our homes is shared meal times. The staff along with the service users enjoy conversation and are encouraged to express their options and views over dinner.
Mealtimes and mental health
There are many psychological, social and biological benefits of eating meals with other people.
Sharing mealtimes is good for your mental health. Whether it be through sharing experiences with family and friends, winding down with a company, bonding with family members or just having someone to talk to, mealtimes provide a great opportunity for us to set aside a specific time of the day or week to give us time to socialise, relax and improve our mental health.
Benefits of shared mealtimes
Psychological
Regular mealtimes which are shared provide a sense of rhythm and regularity in lives. They offer a sense of containment and familiarity and can evoke deep feelings of contentment and security. Humans need structure and routine. Mealtimes offer people the opportunity to stop, to stand still psychologically, to reflect on their day and days ahead, and to listen to and interact with others. Mealtimes are also a grounding opportunity, a time when anxieties can be expressed and you can be listened to.
Biological
Regular mealtimes are good biologically. They provide rhythm and make us stop and focus on eating in upright chairs which improve digestion. The act of talking and listening also slows down the eating process.