Advantages of Eating While Sitting on the Floor-Truth or Myth?

To many Indian households, sitting on the floor while eating is much more than a tradition; it is a ritual of culture that has been passed on from generation to generation. But is there any benefit, or is it simply another age-old myth? Interestingly, modern science seems to be validating some of the health advantages attributed to this age-old tradition. Let us see if sitting down and eating on the floor is a truly magical thing-needed for your body and mind.

Advantages of Eating While Sitting on the Floor:

1. Encourages Mindful Eating

Cross-legged sitting on the floor tends to slow you down. Compared to sitting on food-laden sofas or dining tables buzzing with distractions, the floor setting lets you focus on the food and chew it right, preventing overeating.

2. Assists Digestion

The Sukhasana cross-legged sitting posture applies light pressure to the abdomen by virtue of the body’s weight, stimulating the digestive enzymes to function, thereby aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption, as per Ayurveda and Yoga doctrines.

3. Develops Good Posture

Maintaining a straight spine while eating on the floor will engage the core muscles and offer good exercises to develop an upright posture. This could gradually relieve back pain and enhance flexibility.

4. Supports Weight Management

Eating on the floor being slower and thereby enhancing digestion may benefit weight control indirectly. While being aware of eating, one has lesser chances to binge.

5. Closer Family Bonding

Floor dining creates an environment of equality in ancient homes and provides closeness during mealtime, turning dinner into a shared, humbling experience.

ALSO READ: Is Eating Oats Every Day Healthy?

Is It Right for Everybody?

Knee pain, joint issues, and elderly people are among those who may find sitting on the floor quite disadvantageous. These people can explore other forms of raising mindfulness that can offer the same benefits.

Sitting on the floor may sound rather antiquated, but it has its fair share of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. What looked like a myth may well be a magical lifestyle practice to rediscover.