‘연결’의 관점에서 본 음식, 신체, 정신 = Food, Body, and Mind from the Perspective of ‘Connection’

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

This paper defines food as a vital medium that connects humans, nature, and the universe from cultural, social, and philosophical perspectives, and analyzes the relationships between food and the body, and between food and the mind, from the viewpoint of humanistic “connection.” Humanity, both in the East and the West, has long recognized the importance of connection. Through a collaborative approach between the science of nutrition and philosophy, this paper explores the multidimensional influences of food on human life. Food provides essential nutrients for sustaining life and regulating bodily functions, revealing that the human body, constantly dependent on external substances, exists in a constant state of interconnection with the outside world. From a psychological perspective, food influences neurotransmitters and brain functions, and is therefore closely linked to emotional regulation, stress relief, cognitive performance, and sleep quality. Certain dietary patterns are even associated with the risk of depression and anxiety disorders. From a religious and cultural perspective, food serves as more than mere sustenance; it functions as a medium for faith, identity, and spiritual practice. Buddhist vegetarianism, Daoist concepts of qi regulation, and the idea of yishitongyuan (醫食同源, the unity of medicine and food) all emphasize the symbiotic relationship and interconnectedness among food, humans, and ultimately the universe. The discussion of connection extends broadly across society, influencing social inequality, health levels, and cultural identity. In conclusion, food is a key element that intimately links human life with the universe. Through the framework of humanistic connection theory, the complex network among food, body, and mind can be analyzed using the concepts of nodes and edges. Through this study, the paper underscores the fundamental insight that humans exist not in isolation from nature and the universe, but within an interconnected web of all beings. Furthermore, it cautions against anthropocentrism and proposes a practical direction toward a sustainable food culture and harmony between humans and nature.