The traditional Indian habit of eating on the floor and sitting cross-legged is very beneficial for health. Read on to know how.
Unlike now when everyone prefers sitting at the dining table and eating, the traditional Indian method of dining on the floor with legs crossed was a wonderful idea.
Apart from India, many eastern and south-east Asian cultures also follow the same tradition and that has a solid reason behind it, endorsed by health experts.
The following are a few significant reasons why you should sit crossed-leg while eating on the floor:
- Helps lose weight: Sitting on the floor and then getting up either to close the plate or take a refill helps in smooth body movement that regulates blood circulation. It also helps lose weight and is effective in relaxing and calming your mind, thereby not letting you overeat.
- Improves posture: Sitting cross-legged on the floor is like performing a yoga asana. This position helps in maintaining a good posture by keeping the back and spine straight. It gives flexibility and strengthens the bones of the lower body area.
- Improves digestion: The position aids digestion and boosts the regulation of digestive juices that keeps you in the pink of your health. It also triggers abdominal muscles that help increase stomach acid.
- Relaxes the mind: the position is ideal for meditation and helps relieve stress by keeping the mind relaxed and calm.
- Helps improve family bonding: Traditionally Indians sit together as a family for meals. It helps in knowing how each other’s day went, bonding, and even unwinding, thus making everyone happy and relaxed.
- Promotes mindful eating: Eating on the floor with your family has a lot of benefits. While it keeps you chatting with them, it also promotes healthy food choices.