The Forgotten Art of Lunch: How to Savor Your Midday Meal While Working from Home
As the world shifted to remote work, many of us found ourselves glued to our screens, sacrificing lunch breaks for the sake of productivity. I was no exception. For months, I worked tirelessly, skipping meals and neglecting self-care. My husband, on the other hand, managed to strike a balance between work and life. He’d take breaks, stretch his legs, and eat lunch away from his desk. I ignored his concerns, convinced that I was a machine capable of handling it all. That was until I crashed and burned out.
The Wake-Up Call
A real-life storm knocked out our internet, forcing me to step away from my computer and join my husband for lunch. As we sat down to eat, I realized I’d forgotten the simple pleasure of taking a break. It was then that I understood the importance of making time for lunch while working from home.
Expert Advice
I spoke with Evelyn Tribole, founder of the intuitive eating movement, who shared her insights on how to shift our mindset about meals. According to Tribole, setting aside time to eat is crucial. “Mark the time on your shared calendar so others know you’re busy,” she recommends. “No one needs more of an explanation than, ‘I’m busy’.”
Nourishment Beyond Food
Tribole emphasizes the importance of nourishing ourselves, not just our bodies. “Try thinking of the time as your own, personal oasis,” she says. “Give yourself time to settle into this new feeling. Sometimes my clients will say this shift in thinking feels strange. It takes time to adjust.” This means taking a break from work to recharge and refocus.
Practical Tips for a Better Lunch Break
- Move Your Workspace: If possible, create a separate space for meals to keep work at bay.
- Prep the Night Before: Take a few minutes to plan your next day’s lunch hour, whether it’s leftover lasagna or a specially prepared salad.
- Sit Down to Eat: No more standing up to eat. Take a digital timeout and turn off your phone.
- Play with Your Food: Experiment with different spices, cuisines, and textures to make lunch more enjoyable.
- Make Time to Move: Take a quick walk or do some stretching exercises before or after your meal to refresh your mind and body.
A Newfound Appreciation
I’ve since reclaimed my dining room as a space for meals, and I’ve learned to prioritize my lunch break. It’s no longer about sacrificing self-care for productivity, but about finding balance and nourishing myself, both body and mind.
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