Chopping Vegetables Makes Me Happy
When my brain is running a thousand miles per second, when I'm anxious or ruminating over current affairs, the simple act of tying on my apron, rinsing produce, and pulling out my favorite knife and cutting board will slow me down.
The busier life gets, the more joy I find in the task of methodically slicing vegetables for an upcoming meal. When my brain is running a thousand miles per second, when I'm anxious or ruminating over current affairs, the simple act of tying on my apron, rinsing produce, and pulling out my favorite knife and cutting board will slow me down.
But why does this work to calm my busy mind?
Well, for one thing, being productive is my favorite way to rest.
Constant productivity is unsustainable, but there's something to be said for the joy that comes from completing simple tasks – especially when the product of that effort is delicious.
But I suspect there are other reasons I enjoy peeling carrots and cutting bell peppers into thin and even strips:
- It connects me with nature.
- It's sensory joy – washing and slicing, bright colors, fresh scents, crisp bites.
- It's rewarding to work towards visible, edible results.
- Preparing fresh produce feels like self care.
- It feels like I'm taking good care of my loved ones too.
In many ways, chopping vegetables is taking action, creating a better tomorrow for my future self. It's repetitive, methodical, a meditation even.
But the best part is I'm following through on my earlier good intentions, and avoiding "aspirational produce" related food waste – something that's personally important to me.
For me, chopping vegetables is a form of therapy. For others it might be folding laundry, or working in the yard.
What everyday task brings you the most joy?
Jamie Siebens is a writer, editor, and administrative genius with a knack for getting things done. She lives in Northwest Wisconsin with her husband, teen daughters, and a quirky rescue pup named Bentley. She writes about perspective, personal growth, and intentional living at www.jamiesiebens.com