Why we need comfort things

Image Courtesy: Graphic Design

In moments of distress, we always try to run towards something that gives us comfort — a meal, a movie, a book or even a person. This acts as an escapism, where you leave the present problems in your life and transport to a space where you feel protected.

For me, I know I can't start a new show or watch a movie I have never seen before when I feel stressed; instead, I go back to my two comfort shows I can watch over and over again. I can turn on Gossip Girl in peace and look at every movement Dan makes to figure out if there was really any hint that he was in fact (spoiler alert) Gossip Girl. I can then make Blair Waldorf my entire personality again, which ultimately also enhances all other experiences in my life. Similarly, I can watch Pride and Prejudice (2005) for the millionth time and swoon over Mr. Darcy’s hand flex scene. I could be having what seems to be a million problems, but turning on that movie or show would solve almost half of them. 

The same goes for comfort meals. Turning to meals I know I like in an anxiety-inducing situation eliminates the potentially added frustration of eating something I may not enjoy. After having a long day, I am running back home with no thoughts in my head other than having a spicy chicken sandwich as soon as humanly possible.

When it comes to people, a comfort person can be someone you are close with or a celebrity who has no idea who you are.  Talking to my best friends can be comforting, but sometimes it is too stressful even to have a conversation. This is when I turn to my comfort celebrity. Harry Styles brings me a level of peace and comfort no one can, so I either watch his interviews or kick back and relax to his music after an uneasy day.

Comfort is unique to a person. In times that we are overwhelmed and stressed, we find solace in the things that are familiar — a personal reset we take until we are ready to head into the unfamiliar we may be avoiding. Knowing you have the power to make yourself feel better, even though you cannot change the circumstances, is enough on days that make breathing feel like a chore.

Strike Out,

Writer: Kaninika Dey

Editor: Annika Chaves

Graphic Design: Alexis Rodriguez
Boston