Food and the Nature of Happiness

Here's a little thought experiment. What is the nature of happiness? How do you define it?

Each person may argue various points regarding their beliefs whether it's chemicals in the brain, connection with the energy of the universe, or the blessings God gives you because He love you. Indeed a scripture in the Book of Mormon says, "men are that they might have joy". Regardless of beliefs, every individual to ever live has sought happiness in some way. Why does something so basic often seem so far beyond reach to so many?

I think it is in the little choices. The little responses you make every day.

I'll use something rather universal as an example. I think tasting food is one method by which the human brain experiences happiness. You will not always be able to eat your favorite food for every meal, and you wouldn't really want to, right? Variety is the spice of life. But what about the foods you dislike? You'll theoretically inevitably encounter them. What if you could consciously choose to like them? Then when you do encounter them, a moment that might have been unhappy will be happy instead.

Hopefully this results in a net positive, especially if the foods you don't like are healthier foods. This could lead to overall better health if you begin to eat them more because of your decision to like them. It starts with baby steps. First, try not to be too prejudiced against any food. Next, always try at least a little of even the things you don't like. As you eat them, try to find things you could possibly enjoy about them and focus on those things. It's a slow perspective change, but I find that over the years, I've grown to like almost all of the foods I once disliked. Some I now even genuinely love.

Am I confusing happiness with appreciation? Perhaps, but are they really so dissimilar? "In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships."¹

So, perhaps making the small effort to enjoy all food a little more is the first step to enjoying life a little more. A little more appreciation, a little more gratitude, a little more happiness for all.

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¹ https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happier