Working towards the finish in the Intentional Eating countdown, we'll discuss a crucial reason why we eat when we aren't hungry: socialization. Friends, families, and work colleagues who need a reason to get together automatically choose food as a starting point. An alternative?
Plan get-togethers around activities instead of meals.
We choose meals to center our socialization because for many of us, that's how we subconsciously organize our day.
When will the kids do their homework - before or after dinner? When will that report be filed - before or after lunch? Where will we take our spouse for the next date - the Italian restaurant for dinner, or the Moroccan one for lunch?
This concept of timing makes evolutionary and biological sense. Because we need food so frequently compared to other species, we need to frame our days around our meals. If we were ball pythons that needed one meal per month, our days may be structured around other necessary milestones.
However, we are humans, and as such, we have social needs to fill as well as food needs. Therefore, it makes sense to fall into the pattern of grouping the two together. However, this can result in excuses being made to overeat or overindulge on a "special occasion" treat.
Consider activities for some get-togethers instead of meals. Don't go cold-turkey on bonding over turkey, but instead of the after-work beer with your coworker, suggest a walk around the local park. Rather than a December 26th pig out of Christmas leftovers, try sledding or playing in the snow.
This idea fits under the practice of reframing.
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| Rabbit=old habits, hand=new habits |
Reframing can be practiced by seeing old habits in a new way. Something to note is that reframing socialization requires that your friends and family support the new habit. If they need to be reminded why the new way is important, introduce them to this blog.
Kate Fossman, RDN, LD
September 15, 2015
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