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Thursday

"I belong here, and I deserve to take up space."

Welcome to Thursday! Today, we're chatting about:

• Is spicy food ok to eat with a sensitive stomach?

• How cooking helps with anxiety and stress

• Unwind naturally with these gummies

• How to begin learning to cook

• The treadmill you’ll look forward to using

Can You Enjoy Spice Without Stomach Issues?

Spicy food can bring a burst of flavor to any dish, but for some, it comes with unexpected stomach troubles. While enjoying your favorite chili or hot wings may be totally fine for many, for others, it can lead to discomfort. Nutritionists agree that while spice isn't inherently bad for digestion, it can be a trigger for those with conditions like IBS, acid reflux, or IBD.

If you don't have a sensitive stomach, there's no reason to shy away from spicy foods—they can actually offer health benefits. Chili peppers, for instance, are packed with vitamins and anti-inflammatory properties. Capsaicin, the compound that gives chili peppers their heat, is linked to better heart health and can even help reduce pain and inflammation. But beware: it’s not the spice itself that causes digestive upset—it’s often the greasy or fatty foods that accompany it, like fried wings or cheesy burgers.

However, if you're dealing with digestive issues, it’s wise to pay attention to how your body reacts to spicy food. Experts suggest eliminating spice temporarily and reintroducing it slowly to see if it exacerbates your symptoms. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional to figure out what works for you.

How Cooking Can Help Ease Anxiety and Stress

Cooking isn’t just about preparing food—it can be a path to better mental health. Often called cooking therapy, this creative and mindful practice is gaining recognition as a self-care technique. By engaging in meal prep, people find a sense of accomplishment, mindfulness, and even connection to their cultural roots.

Beyond feeding the body, cooking therapy can soothe the mind. When we cook, we tap into focus and creativity, whether we’re trying a new recipe or perfecting an old favorite. This simple act often provides a healthy distraction from stress and anxiety, letting us feel grounded in the moment.

Incorporating cooking into your self-care routine can offer more than just physical benefits. It fosters connection, whether through shared meals with loved ones or simply savoring a dish you’ve made yourself. Plus, knowing you’re in control of what you eat can boost your sense of well-being.

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, step into the kitchen. Whether it's whipping up comfort food or exploring new flavors, cooking can become your therapy for both body and mind.

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Thank you to CBDistillery for sponsoring Note To Self. 

Ready to Cook? Start with These Online Resources

If you've ever wanted to step up your cooking game but didn't know where to start, there are plenty of online resources that can help. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to fine-tune your skills, learning to cook has never been easier.

Some websites offer courses from top chefs, making learning fun and interactive. These classes often dive into techniques and recipes, helping you understand the "why" behind each dish, not just the "how."

For those who prefer bite-sized learning, YouTube is a goldmine. There are step-by-step tutorials on everything from basic knife skills to advanced plating techniques. It’s the perfect way to learn at your own pace.

If you're someone who prefers structure, you can check out structured lessons with thorough explanations. They break down cooking fundamentals and offer a variety of recipes that will expand your culinary horizons.

With these tools, cooking at home can feel less intimidating and more like an exciting adventure!

Finally, a Treadmill You'll Actually Stick With

Wellness Round-Up:

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ True or False: True! Gratitude practices can lead to improved mood and increased feelings of contentment.

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers’ lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Be kind to yourself. You deserve the same compassion and understanding you give to others.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!