As the temperature drops and daylight hours shorten, many individuals in the UK experience a noticeable shift in their food preferences, gravitating towards warm, hearty meals. A psychotherapist and culinary psychology expert, Stelios Kiosses, from the University of Oxford, has shed light on the psychological factors that drive these autumn cravings, revealing a deeper connection between food, memory, and emotion.
According to Kiosses, cravings are not merely random impulses. Instead, they are deeply rooted in our psychological state, often tied to past experiences and feelings. His research for an upcoming book on culinary psychology indicates that the desire for comforting soups during the autumn months is more than just a response to chilly weather. It also evokes cherished memories associated with these traditional dishes.
Kiosses explains, “You’re not just craving the soup itself; you’re craving a feeling. Food taps into memory, emotion, and the desire to return to something joyful and familiar.” The sensory experiences linked to winter foods—such as the smell of spices simmering, the warmth of a fire, or the first sip of a hot drink after stepping inside from the cold—can transport individuals back to nostalgic moments spent with family and friends.
Connecting Food with Emotion
Research indicates that during the autumn and winter months, people often report a longing for heartier, more traditional fare. Kiosses notes that from around October onwards, many individuals seek warmth and comfort through their meals, aligning their eating habits with the seasonal changes. Home-cooked meals, roasts, and seasonal fruits and vegetables become increasingly appealing as the weather turns colder.
Kiosses emphasizes the significance of food in marking life’s transitions—be it celebrations, moments of rest, or personal changes. “Autumn eating taps into this,” he states. “It’s not just what we eat; it’s how we want to feel.” Understanding the reasons behind our food choices can help individuals select meals that resonate with their emotional states, rather than simply adhering to societal expectations of healthy eating.
The connection between food and emotion is particularly pronounced during the colder months, providing individuals with a chance to reconnect with their loved ones and with aspects of themselves that may have been overlooked during warmer seasons. Kiosses advises, “Knowing when we’re reaching for food to soothe, to remember, or to celebrate can help us choose foods that align with how we want to feel.”
Embracing Comfort Foods
As October progresses, various comfort foods take center stage, with soups featuring prominently. Whether it is a creamy tomato soup or a hearty leek and ham concoction, Kiosses encourages people to embrace their cravings without overthinking them. “Just notice the story it’s telling and enjoy it,” he advises.
This autumn, as the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, individuals in the UK and beyond can find solace in the foods that evoke warm memories and feelings of comfort. By recognizing the emotional ties to these seasonal dishes, one can fully appreciate the nourishing power of food during this reflective time of year.
