A Helping of Happiness

About the true meaning of a healthy appetite. And a special connection between food and life.

Some time ago, I read about an interesting food culture.

There was the typical life on an smaller island: take, what nature provides and use it wisely, because on limited space, the options are obvious. The inhabitants lived a happy life, where work was taken seriously, to contribute to what the community needed, but also as a means to fulfill personal destiny. Everyone took their time to do what was necessary, but also what was essential to keep the living pleasant.

Food was perceived not only as a matter that passes through physical cycles, but as an important opportunity created to serve the body and enjoy company. There were no opulent meals, but rather comfortable possible combinations of what one liked, needed and had.

Since the island was situated along a well-traveled trade route, not only did ships pass the place, but so did ideas. And the islanders were not shy to broaden their horizon. Thus, their food culture became a fascinating celebration of both variety and pragmatism.

In this the food is mainly composed of what grows and can be grown on the ground. And it makes excellent use of it. Not only by including everything edible, but also by maximizing its beneficial contribution to life: ‘Food is medicine’. And to avoid unnecessary strain and waste: ‘Eat only until you are 80% full.’

Fish is eaten regularly, but in moderation (on an island, you always have to catch what you want to eat first). Meat is used as a delicatessen, probably because local specialties in this area are largely based on historical models of what was served at formal royal banquets (lean, marinated pork).

Of course, looking at this from the distant mainland of common nutritional knowledge, all of the above factors are very similar to another nutritional concept that has become famous as ‘The Mediterranean Diet‘. All over the world it is being recommended to tackle widespread health problems, many of which are based on chronic inflammation.

But what these two particular ways of mindful eating and good food also have in common is a playful yet courageous attitude toward life’s challenges: Work hard, do your part, but also live to the fullest. Make music and art, tend your garden, stay physically and mentally active, participate in your community, and, when necessary, take a good rest. These are solid traditions.

Interestingly, this story resonated with my own family tradition. My grandfather used to say: “Everything, but in moderation.” And he practiced that to live a long, full, active life.

Which is exactly what the keepers of the tradition are doing on their small island(s): Living happy and extraordinarily long lives.

‘Food is medicine’. … ‘Eat only until you are 80% full.’

Side Notes:

• If you are interested in the topic, you can find some background on the [InfoByteSized] page. If you want to add some personal meaning to the idea, you might want to read the recipe in today’s twin post [Lake Trail] and get inspired as I followed the inspiration of the Okinawans.