Comfort Food: 4 Perspective Shifts That Helped Me.

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I recently listened to a podcast (Jordan Harbinger E1326: Simone Stolzoff) where Simone shared the idea of, “certainty anchors.”

Basically: in uncertain or stressful times, it helps to have things we can reliably turn to for comfort, familiarity, or calm.

For a lot of people, food becomes that anchor.

Not always to their benefit. (I’ve absolutely been there.)

Or maybe you know someone who stress-cleans or irons when life feels chaotic?

(I have absolutely not been there 😅)

It got me considering the role comfort food plays in our lives.

A few thoughts to share with my fellow Thrivers…

✅ One: It’s not just about taste.

Comfort food often comes with deep emotional ties — love and connection, certainty, happy memories, even convenience. When you name what you're really craving — connection, care, ease — you get to choose a food (or action) that meets that need with only positive side effects.

The things I turn to now?

Patting my cat! Time sitting under a tree. A walk along the river.

✅ Two: Comfort food doesn’t have to be unhealthy.

Nutritious food can also make us feel loved or safe or appreciated. It can be quick and hassle-free while still being supportive of our health goals.

A simple journal prompt like:

“What comfort foods make me feel good before, during and after?” can shift everything.

My new Go2’s when I want to consume?

Whole air-fried purple sweet potato. Kale crisps with cheesy nutritional yeast.

Silken tofu salted caramel mousse!

✅ Three: It’s not just for sad days.

Research shows we reach for comfort food when we’re happy too!

So why not build daily joy into your routine — with foods that love you back?

I work little treats into every day so I never feel deprived or restricted.

Some healthy little treats?

Baked edamame or crispy chickpeas. Frozen dark cherries.

✅ Four: A reframe to see the discomfort in comfort!

We often think discomfort lives outside our comfort zone. However what if the real pain is staying stuck inside it?

In food terms: The same old refined-crap-o-la go-to’s might feel safe — however they can leave you bloated, sluggish, or disappointed in YOU.

Choosing nourishing whole-food, delicious options = actual, lasting comfort.

I actually find it comforting to know that I can eat generous, indulgent quantities of something I love without worrying that it’ll negatively impact my goals. Or leave me feeling bloated and lethargic.

Do you have a “go-to” food you turn to when you want to demolish?

Or maybe one you’re ready to lovingly evict from your regular routine?

(pictured, the type of meals I find gloriously comforting!) 💚

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