Meals shared together at Thompson-Markward Hall is one of the most memorable experiences our residents have. It’s the time to make new friendships, network, make plans, debate world events and relax after a day at work or school. Visiting alumni often reflect on the lifelong friendships they made, friendships that started with a shared meal.

Food is something that we consume every day, but its importance sometimes gets overlooked. We often take access to good food for granted, until we have a bad experience and realize how much good food really matters. Beyond the biological, the essential social role of food is also rarely considered. Whether we realize it or not, food is a major part of life. Here are some of the reasons why food is so important in our lives:

• It fuels our bodies – First and foremost, food fuels our bodies and we need it in order to survive. We eat food to provide energy for our bodies to continue functioning. However, that doesn’t mean that we should simply eat whatever we want all the time. As the old adage goes: “You are what you eat.”

That’s why it’s important to have access to varied, healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. A healthy, balanced diet is essential to a healthy lifestyle and ensuring that our bodies have the appropriate fuel they need to function properly. It also helps us to maintain a healthy weight, reduces the risk of various diseases and illnesses, and boosts our energy.

• It tastes good – Food is also important in our lives because it tastes good and is enjoyable to eat. When we enjoy good food, it makes us feel good, which helps to improve our mood, our mental health, and our overall well-being. While making sure to eat a healthy, balanced diet is crucial, it’s also important that you enjoy the food you eat, because there are also many benefits of eating for pleasure. These benefits are only heightened when you can share the experience with others.

• It brings us together – Another major reason why food is so important in our lives is that it brings us together with others and can help build a sense of community. That’s why we often schedule meals with our friends, family, and colleagues, because it is a bonding experience when we enjoy good food together.

There’s also significant cultural importance of food, with cooking and eating providing a critical connection for many communities and cultures around the world. While many people don’t love eating alone, enjoying cooking and eating good food with others helps us feel a sense of belonging and can even lead to new friendships, relationships, and experiences. 

At Thompson-Markward Hall (TMH), we’re a nonprofit organization with a mission to promote the academic and professional success of young women. TMH is in the heart of DC and offers safe, affordable, and convenient housing for women who are working, attending school, or interning in our nation’s capital. We also have home-cooked, delicious food provided for our residents.We are now requiring all residents to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to make our community as safe as possible. Visit our website to learn more about our accommodations or fill out an application today so you can start enjoying all of the benefits of co-living in DC!