Cookie Dough Feels Like Comforting Hugs: Why Emotional Eating is My Go-To Stress Relief

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Life can be a whirlwind. Whether it’s the chaos of parenting, the pressures of adulthood, or the never-ending demands of daily living, stress seems to be a constant companion. With the holidays approaching and the usual pressures of juggling responsibilities, I’ve found myself feeling a bit overwhelmed. By “overwhelmed,” I mean I’m stressed out of my mind.

People handle stress in various ways. Some might unwind with a glass of wine, while others find peace in meditation or a good book. There are those who hit the gym or practice yoga. And then there’s me—finding solace in a mountain of chocolate and a binge on frozen Reese’s cups like it’s my full-time job.

In a perfect world, I would manage stress by strolling through the park, engaging in deep-breathing exercises, or indulging in a luxurious bubble bath. But reality is far from ideal. My life is filled with demanding kids, overflowing to-do lists, and the daily grind of adult responsibilities. Toss in a few unexpected surprises, and you can see why I often seek refuge in a bag of Cheetos or find myself sneaking spoonfuls of cookie dough ice cream in the bathroom.

Despite my generally sunny disposition, the weight of stress can sometimes feel unbearable. Trying to stay informed about the world often leaves me wanting to retreat from it all. A glance at the mess in the living room or the chaos of everyday life can send me spiraling toward a desperate need for comfort food.

Emotional eating has its perks. While it may not be the healthiest coping mechanism, let’s face it: a spoonful of cookie dough can feel like a warm embrace. A frozen Reese’s is like a supportive pat on the back, and those crispy French fries? They symbolize a little taste of freedom. On particularly challenging days, a bowl of Doritos perfectly sums up my feelings of frustration.

Sure, there are healthier alternatives to managing stress than diving into a bag of chips or a carton of ice cream. But some days demand survival tactics. When life feels like a series of unfortunate events, I often wave my white flag and surrender to the comfort of snacks.

Let’s be real—carbs and chocolate are often quicker and more satisfying than meditation or knitting. So, when the going gets tough, pass the chips.

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In summary, while life can be a rollercoaster of stress, emotional eating often provides the comfort and relief we crave. Whether it’s cookie dough or French fries, these indulgences can be a delightful escape from reality.