Rediscovering Commensality: The Power of Sharing Meals
Commensality, as defined by Merriam-Webster, is simply ‘the practice of eating together’. While this age-old tradition may seem commonplace, its benefits prove to be more than mere dietary sustenance.
At Common Ground Project, where I recently visited as a part of my nutrition studies, I experienced first hand the nourishing nature of commensality.
Our day began joining fellow volunteers amidst rows of crops. The morning’s labor was rewarding, followed by a break for freshly baked scones, coffee and tea. This initial taste of community laid the foundation for a day filled with collaboration and shared purpose.
As we returned to our tasks outside tending to the fresh produce, the anticipation of lunchtime soon lingered - where crisp salads, warm toasties, roasted radishes and fresh frittatas awaited us. Having a farm-fresh lunch provided was such a treat after pulling some of those foods out of the ground just a few moments prior, surrounded by a community of people with a shared interest in sustainable farming.
Reflecting on this experience led me to explore the scientific underpinnings of communal dining. Research consistently highlights its multifaceted benefits, starting with our physical health. Regular shared meals are linked to improved dietary quality, as they encourage a diverse and balanced intake of nutrients. Studies have shown the act of eating together promotes healthier eating habits overall, reducing the likelihood of unhealthy snacking and enhancing portion control. (1)
Equally significant but perhaps less obvious are the social and psychological benefits of communal dining. Sharing a meal creates a space for meaningful conversation and connection, strengthening relationships. It also works to reinforce cultural or family traditions, creating a sense of belonging, shared history and identity among participants. For families, shared meals on a regular basis has been linked to improved family cohesion and communication. For communities, they can act as an important ritual to bring people together and foster understanding between diverse groups. (2)
Eating socially has been positively associated in studies with feeling happier and more satisfied with life. It can increase trust in others, increase supportive friendships and allow you to become more immersed in your local community. (2) Eating socially may even lead to the same kind of increased endorphin effects that have been observed in physical exercise. (3)
Gathering, preparing and sharing a meal has been a key to building community since early social development times. (4) In a professional setting, commensality can promote work-life balance due to setting aside time for eating on a busy work day. Field research within firehouses explored the valuable group-level benefits that can be gained from interacting over food - there was a significant positive association shown between shared meals and work-group performance (4)
At Common Ground Project, the benefits extend beyond the immediate participants. Every meal shared fosters a deeper connection to the land and its caretakers. It reinforces their commitment to regenerative agriculture, where food isn’t just sustenance but a catalyst for community building and sustainability.
So, next time you sit down to eat, whether it’s with family, friends, or fellow volunteers, remember the ancient wisdom embedded in this daily ritual. Embrace the opportunity to nourish not only your body but also your soul - and to contribute to a healthier, more connected world - one meal at a time.
References:
1. Middleton G, Patterson KA, Muir-Cochrane E, Velardo S, McCorry F and Coveney J (2022) ‘The Health and Well-being Impacts of Community Shared Meal Programs for Older Populations: A Scoping Review’, Innov Aging, 6(7), doi:10.1093/geroni/igac068
2. Dunbar RIM (2017) ‘Breaking Bead: the Functions of Social Eating’, Adapt Human Behav Physiol, 3: 198-211, https://doi.org/10.1007/s40750-017-0061-4
3. Curley JP and Keverne EB (2005) ‘Genes, brains and mammalian social bonds’, TREE, 20(10): 561-7, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tree.2005.05.018
4. Kniffin KM, Wansink B, Devine CM, Sobal J (2015) ‘Eating Together at the Firehouse: How Workplace Commensality Relates to the Performance of Firefighters’, Hum Perform, 28(4): 281-306, doi: 10.1080/08959285.2015.1021049
