Cook Up Some Happiness!

Emotions and food have always gone hand in hand. From birthdays to celebratory events, food is most likely in the vicinity. Even at sporting events, the high emotions seem to be curbed by food from the concession stand. It’s no secret food can make you feel good! But in the past few months I’ve found that cooking (and then eating, of course) can significantly increase those happy emotions.As a kid neither of my parents were very skilled in the kitchen, which led to a lot of family dinners out at restaurants. Though I love eating at restaurants, I kind of skipped the whole ?learning how to cook? thing as I grew up. Now that I’m an adult and living on my own, I thought it was about time I learned how to cook. The joy I’ve gotten from creating something delicious out of a few ingredients is amazing! 

When cooking, you’re able to focus on something entirely which will relax your mind. Our lives are full of so much hustle and bustle nowadays that cooking provides a relaxation escape. And even though eating food in general can make you happy, eating food that you made can make you even happier! Because you are tasting the food that you made, rather than somebody else’s, you feel a certain level of pride. It’s very uplifting! ²

Certain foods are even proven to make you happier! Here are some meals you can whip up to lift your spirits?²

1. Macaroni & Cheese: It’s no wonder this classic comfort food tops the list. Although it may not be the healthiest thing, mac & cheese contains high levels of vitamin B which has been shown to increase endorphins and make you happier.
2. Salmon & Brown Rice: This is a healthier option that can boost your happiness. Salmon itself is regarded as a superfood, and the high levels of omega-3 fatty acids found in the fish have helped alleviate symptoms of depression. The brown rice also packs a punch with selenium, which will keep a smile on your face.
3. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The complex carbohydrates found in sweet potatoes are packed with joy-inducing vitamins and minerals. These vitamins and minerals boost serotonin production in the brain, which keeps those spirits high!

Cooking is about the process just as much as the end result. Are you a novice cook or hesitant in the kitchen? Take a cooking class this weekend! It’s a fun and interactive way to learn how to cook. Plus, you get a meal at the end! Happy cooking?

Article Sources:

¹ http://www.julienegrin.com/blog/2009/05/can-cooking-make-you-happier/

² http://recipes.howstuffworks.com/10-meals-that-are-proven-to-make-you-happy.htm