Blog – Nourishing Body & Soul

Blog – Nourishing Body & Soul

As we age, the importance of nutrition becomes even more evident—not just for our health but also for our social connections. Sharing meals and exploring food together can strengthen our relationships, enhance our well-being, and create cherished memories. Here’s how you can use nutrition to enrich your social life and support your health as you enjoy this vibrant stage of life.

The Role of Nutrition in Building Connection

Shared meals

Enjoying a meal with loved ones is a beautiful way to foster connection. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck with friends, or a casual coffee date, sharing food can deepen your relationships and create lasting memories.

Cultural traditions

Food often reflects our backgrounds and traditions. Sharing recipes or meals that highlight cultural heritage can be a great way to connect with others. Consider hosting themed dinners where everyone brings a dish from their culture.

Cooking together

Inviting friends or family to join you in the kitchen can be a fun way to spend time together. Preparing a meal as a group allows for sharing recipes, cooking techniques, and, most importantly, laughter and conversation.

Nutritional Tips for Feeling and Staying Connected

Plan balanced meals 

Focus on a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Colourful and nutritious meals not only benefit your health but also make for appealing dishes to share with others.

Practise Incorporate seasonal foods 

Choose fresh, seasonal ingredients when cooking. Not only are they often more flavourful, but discussing local harvests can spark interesting conversations about food and nutrition.

Try new recipes together

Challenge friends or family members to bring a new recipe to your next gathering. Exploring new dishes can be a delightful way to bond and learn about different cuisines.

Be mindful while eating

When sharing meals, try to focus on the experience. Put away distractions like the TV or phones, and engage in conversation. This enhances the social aspect of dining and allows everyone to enjoy the food and company.

Connecting With Your Community

Chat Time

Don’t sit at home feeling lonely, come and join us. It’s not a serious day, it’s all about fun. We talk about lots of things that will get you thinking and laughing, and you’ll make some great new friends.

You can book into Chat Time here.

Join a community garden

Many communities offer gardens where you can grow your own fruits and vegetables. This is a wonderful way to meet new people, share gardening tips, and enjoy the harvest together. There are a few in the local area – start by searching for your closest here – www.communitygarden.org.au

Attend local food events

Look for farmers’ markets, cooking classes, or food festivals in your area. These events can provide opportunities to meet others who share your interest in nutrition and healthy eating.

Volunteer at local food banks

Helping out at a food bank or community kitchen not only supports those in need but also connects you with others who care about nutrition and community service.

Nutrition is more than just sustenance; it’s a pathway to connection and community. By incorporating these tips into your life, you can enhance your relationships while nurturing your body and mind. So gather your loved ones, share a meal, and enjoy the nourishment that comes from both food and companionship.

Easy Recipe to Cook For Friends – Cottage Pie

  • Dinner/Lunch Serves: 6-8
  • 45 Minutes
  • Cost: $27.00 ($4.50 Per Serve)

A hearty cottage pie when you feel like a comforting meal. To make it even healthier, feel free to add grated vegetables to bulk up the dish! Bring together your supportive friends and family to share the meal together. Just remember – potatoes are healthy! They are rich in vitamin C, one of the nutrients responsible for your heart and muscle health.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large brown onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1kg beef mince
  • 1/2 cup instant gravy
  • 1 cup beef stock
  • 400g chopped tomatoes
  • 1.2kg potatoes, peeled & chopped
  • 50g butter, chopped
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup grated cheese
  1. Preheat oven to 200°C. Heat oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook mince, stirring with a wooden spoon to break up mince, for 8 to 10 minutes or until browned. Transfer to a bowl.
  2. Add onion and garlic to pan. Cook, stirring, for 3 minutes or until softened.
  3. Return mince to pan. Add gravy powder. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute.
  4. Stir in stock and tomato. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 25 to 30 minutes or until thickened.
  5. Meanwhile, cook potato in a saucepan of boiling, salted water for 10 to 12 minutes or until tender. Drain. Return to pan over low heat.
  6. Mash until smooth. Add butter and milk. Stir until butter has melted and mixture is combined.
  7. Put mince in a casserole dish. Layer with cheese. Top with potato mixture.
  8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden. Serve with a salad or veggies.

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