Reclaiming Dinner: How Moving to Austria Changed My Relationship with Food & Home
Adjusting to a new country frequently enough brings unexpected changes, and for many, those changes extend beyond language and customs to deeply personal habits like eating. Initially, I found myself gaining weight after relocating to Austria, a consequence of clinging to routines that simply didn’t align with my new life – or the climate.Heavy,late-night dinners and reduced winter activity,coupled with comfort eating during a period of adjustment,all contributed. It wasn’t immediately obvious, but eventually, I realized I was eating as if still living in a different rhythm, leading to constant fatigue.
The Evolution of Dinner in Our Household
Now, my family consists of my husband, our son, and me. Our dinners have transformed into something quite different – what my grandmother might dismissively call “bird food.” Sometimes we enjoy a simple soup, other times bread and cheese with a few accompaniments, and occasionally a slightly more ample meal like rice and fish. Rarely do we partake in the elaborate, multi-course dinners that once defined “a proper” meal.
however, the most rewarding aspect remains unchanged: the connection. We still share our day, sit together, and intentionally slow down. This is were the true nourishment lies.
And a significant bonus, notably appreciated in Austria, is the dramatically reduced cleanup. Fewer dishes,fewer pots,and a less chaotic kitchen are welcome benefits.
Of course, lighter dinners don’t mean every dinner must be minimalist. You can still enjoy hearty meals when dining out or visiting friends. These occasions simply become special treats, not the daily norm.
The Unexpected Shift: Feeling Foreign at Home and Abroad
Interestingly,I’m preparing for a return visit to my home country next year,and I’m anticipating a bit of a culture shock. My parents still serve large dinners starting at 8 or 8:30 pm, frequently enough lasting until 10 pm. I can already envision myself enjoying the food and conversation, yet simultaneously wondering, “How did I manage this every day?”
Living abroad for an extended period can create a peculiar sense of displacement. You begin to feel like a foreigner both in your adopted country and back home. Perhaps this is simply an inherent part of having a heart that resides in multiple places.
It’s a reminder that adaptation isn’t about abandoning your roots,but about integrating new experiences and finding a rhythm that supports your well-being.
Are you experiencing similar shifts in your habits after moving to Austria? I’d love to hear about any Austrian customs, traditions, or quirks you initially disliked or judged, but now embrace as part of your daily life. Share your experiences – let’s connect and learn from each other!
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