Veronica's Random Dose - The Importance Of The Family Meal.

It is truly a rare occasion; an oddity or antiquated notion for many; to witness families today sitting down at the dinner table and sharing a meal together.

Excluding special occasions, family meals are becoming extinct and obsolete in this day and age. What's behind this phenomenon?

* They Keep Going, And Going, And Going...

In short, longer hours at work, conflicting schedules, life's hectic pace, and an itinerary overflowing with daily commitments and activities, have encouraged eating on the run, hastily prepared meals, and a rise in fast-food consumption or as some food establishments would have it - "good food fast."

It's due to this persistent on the go lifestyle, that push families down the path of eating separately or all alone for that matter.

* What's So Great About Eating Together As A Family Anyway?

Good question. Here's what the experts have to say on this subject:

The U.S. National Center On Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University found that children who take in meals with their family about five times a week, have fewer problems associated with anxiety, lack of interest, or boredom, and tend to get better grades in school.

In her book, The Surprising Power of Family Meals, Miriam Weinsten explained that the dinner table is "an obvious place for kids to get regular access to parental presence and low-key attention," and that sharing family meals can become "a bulwark against the pressures we all face (each) and every day."

The benefits don't end there. As well as providing emotional and mental stability and stimulation, eating a meal together as a family has been said to help discourage bad eating habits. How so?

Well, the University of Navarre in Spain reported that eating alone increases ones risk of suffering from eating disorders. Realistically, while these types of disorders could still develop, the absence of regular shared meals makes this more likely to occur.

* It's Just A Meal - What's The Big Deal?

Many may still conclude that family meals are simply a way to obtain nourishment for one's body; no more, no less.

On the contrary though, *undisturbed meal times with the family benefits all by helping each individual learn how to: 1.) hold meaningful conversations, 2.) listen respectfully, 3.) express themselves with ease, 4.) work as a team - especially is this so when it comes time to set and clear the table, clean up after the meal, serve others, and depending on their age; prepping and preparing the meals, 5.) eat healthy meals at regular times, and 6.) display good manners.

Sitting down and sharing a family meal may seem outdated to some. Nevertheless, it's a great opportunity to create strong bonds, make beautiful memories, and share each others goals and aspirations.

The book, The Surprising Power Of Family Meals puts it nicely, "Family supper may not be a panacea (a remedy for all ills), but it sure looks like a relatively painless fix."

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(*undisturbed meal times mean meal times that are free from television, phone, and all electronics, giving your family your undivided attention)