Khaberni - A Spanish restaurant has stirred up widespread controversy after devising an unconventional idea to encourage singles to dine out without feeling lonely or embarrassed, as it has chosen to provide them with strange companionship during their meals in a step aimed at changing societal views on dining alone.
The restaurant implemented the idea of sitting with life-sized human-like dolls shaped as friendly bears, so that the customer does not feel alone while having their meal.
The initiative was an attempt to reduce the social anxiety associated with the experience of dining alone, especially for people who fear others’ stares or associate solitude with social rejection.
In a statement to "Metro" newspaper, self-development expert Nadia O'boy advised first identifying the source of the fear, explaining that many feel anxious because society is accustomed to viewing eating alone as something embarrassing.
She emphasized the importance of confronting these thoughts by asking a simple question: "What exactly am I afraid of?", and then rationally debunking those fears.
On the other hand, social media sites saw widespread interaction with the idea, as users shared photos and clips of the large dolls alongside customers, with comments ranging from astonishment to humor.
While some comments praised the initiative as a way to encourage people to eat alone without feeling embarrassed, others considered the idea to be humorous and ridiculous.
