Although the hustle and bustle of urban living often force us to settle quick meals in enclosed spaces, there’s a certain magic, not to mention numerous health benefits, that comes with dining al fresco. Literally meaning “in the cool air,” dining al fresco refers to the practice of eating outside in the open air. This mode of dining dates back to the 18th century and is popular throughout the world today -and with good reason. In the modern-day context, dining al fresco could mean organising a picnic, eating out on the patio of your favourite restaurant, or simply having dinner in your garden or balcony.
. Dining al fresco is not just about enjoying the weather or the surrounding scenery, it has a wide range of amazing health benefits. Here’s a look at why eating outside is more beneficial for your health.
Improve Your Mood and Lower Stress Levels
Apart from the obvious relationship between food and mood, the setting in which you eat also plays a pivotal role. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress levels. When you eat outside, you’re away from the artificial light and enclosed spaces. The open skies, fresh air, and natural light have a calming effect on your mind and can instantly perk up your mood. A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences shows that spending time in nature decreases rumination, a pattern of thought focused on negative aspects of the self, which is linked to increased risk of depression and other mental illnesses.
Boost Immune System
It is no secret that fresh air and outdoor activities help to boost your immunity. When you spend time outside, you are exposed to different natural environments, which can boost your white blood cell count. According to scientific studies, green spaces are full of natural antigens (like bacteria and plant substances) which boost our immune system’s functioning. Plus, sunlight is an excellent source of vitamin D, which is essential for a robust immune system.
Enhances Focus and Creativity
Multiple studies suggest that spending time outdoors can improve focus. In today’s digital age, where countless distractions besiege us, an outdoor meal can be a refreshing break. The natural setting can stimulate your senses in a unique way, promoting mindfulness and focus. Also, stepping away from the screen and engaging with your surroundings can spark creativity.
Improves Digestion
Did you know that eating in a relaxed environment could help improve digestion? A stressed state can interfere with the digestion process, leading to issues such as bloating or indigestion. In contrast, eating in a calm, serene outdoor setting can help manage these issues by promoting relaxation.
Promotes Healthy Eating Habits
Given the relaxing nature of an outdoor environment, dining al fresco could lead to more mindful eating. Mindful eating involves paying full attention to the experiences -bites, sips, and moments- of eating, without distraction. This in turn may encourage healthier eating habits as you engage more with the process of eating, rather than simply consuming food.
Conclusion
While life may often pull us toward the path of stress and worry, it’s equally important to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures, such as dining al fresco. Eating outdoors offers numerous health benefits ranging from reducing stress, boosting the immune system, enhancing focus and creativity, to improving digestion and promoting healthy eating habits. So, next time you’re eating, why not step outside and embrace the joy of al fresco dining? It might just be the mood booster you needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does ‘al fresco’ mean?
“Al fresco” is an Italian term which literally means “in the cool air.” It is often used to describe outdoor dining.
2. How does dining al fresco improve digestion?
Eating in a relaxed environment like outdoors help alleviate stress that can interfere with the digestion process, leading to smoother digestion.
3. How does dining al fresco promote healthy eating habits?
The relaxing nature of an outdoor environment can lead to more mindful eating, allowing you to savour each bite, identify your hunger and fullness cues, and ultimately form healthier eating habits.
4. Can dining al fresco make you more creative?
Yes, it can. Stepping away from screens and engaging with a rich, sensory environment can spark creative ideas and problem-solving strategies.
