What do YOU usually have for lunch? Do you make healthy choices? Today we’ll talk about benefits of bringing your own lunch.
You might have noticed that lunch boxes, including bento, became more popular recently, but the fact is that they were successfully used in many regions for hundreds, if not thousands of years.
So, what is bento? It’s a home packed meal that Japanese prepare every day to enjoy during lunch time. A traditional bento varies a lot from region to region, and usually contains rice, fish or meat, with pickled or cooked vegetables, often carried in a box-shaped container.
Why use bento box or any other lunch box?
1. For health benefits. When you prepare your meals yourself, YOU control the ingredients and their quality. Food is personalized to your specific nutritional needs and is balanced as advised by your doctor. Also, you choose the foods that taste great to YOU. Make it even more delicious by seasoning with pepper, cinnamon, chili, curry, cumin, hot sauce or wasabi, while using less sodium.
2. It’s great for weight management. There is a wide range of bento box sizes. Select an appropriate size, and your portioned meals will support you on your journey. Trust me, it makes a huge difference!
3. You can save time and money. Found yourself travelling to a food joint, then staying in line for a while, and then eating your food in a rush, due to lack of remaining time? I’ve done that numerous times in the past, and it rather stressful experience. Preparing lunch at home can take less time, so you simply enjoy food without running around. You will most likely have extra free time to go outside for a brief walk, or to build relationships with your team members. An extra benefit is: your healthy meal will cost less, since you absorb the preparation and service cost.
4. Bento looks fantastic! There are many boxes sold on the market, they have various shapes, colours, materials and properties. You can choose to be as traditional or modern as you desire. Make it represent who you are, and you got yourself a great accessory or even a conversation piece. Same goes for the food inside: combinations are limitless. I’m sure you can enjoy both, the aesthetics and yummy colourful meals!
5. Bento is great for your emotional health. Planning and preparing your bento can be a peaceful experience. Let the dedication and concentration required to prepare your food be the time for relaxation, self-care or even healing. You can also make it a great time to reflect on your day, and progress of your goals. It's fun to simply listen to your favourite music at the same time. Make it meaningful time your own way!
Personally, I’ve discovered drastic improvement in my energy level and health, since I started using bento box for lunch. I bought many bento boxes over the years, during my corporate and public service career. I enjoy benefits of bento, and hope it can also help you to get healthier!
Elena INSPIRE HEALTH
Author