A recent paper by researchers at the University of California, Davis explored a particular kind of stress — the one that results from uncertainty. They found that anticipation of something negative drives anxiety. This was a timely paper to stumble upon given the uncertainty of election season and the buzz of anxiety I feel all around me.
What the Davis researchers didn’t tell us is how to quiet our collective nerves. Sure, we can try deep breathing or getting better sleep, but I often find the urge to DO something when I’m amped up. For me (and maybe for you, too), that “thing” often translates to time at the stove. Interestingly, that’s for good reason. Working with our hands is a stress reliever according to Susan Biali Haas, MD, who writes in Psychology Today, “Working productively with our hands is profoundly pleasurable. Using our hands may actually be key to maintaining a healthy mood, and the lack of this type of activity may contribute to feelings of irritability, apathy, and depression.
Enter today’s post, which is all about calming the uncertainly, lifting some stress, and, yes, maintaining a healthy mood. As the election results roll in, let’s cook something. It may give your brain a place to focus that isn’t the endless news cycle. Plus, you’ll have something wonderful to eat when you’re done. Below are 20 ideas to get you started.
20 Recipes to Comfort & Nourish
Good Morning Comfort
Easy Chai
Whole-Grain Kefir Blender Pancakes
Cranberry Ginger Baked Oatmeal
Walnut Coconut Date Scones
Soupy/Stewy Things
Genius Butternut Squash Soup
Brothy Udon with Soft Eggs and Greens
Instant Pot Beef & Butternut Squash Chili
Coconut Lime Chickpea Curry (or this Salmon Vegetable Curry)
Pasta, Pizza, & Savory Pie
Almost Vegan Alfredo
Cheesy Baked Pumpkin Pasta with Kale and Bacon
No-Knead Sheet Pan Pizza
Savory Roasted Vegetable Pie
Fan Favorites
Oven Baked Tofu Parm
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow Cooker Chicken Marbella
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