Psychotherapist Reveals Why Autumn Soup Cravings Surge

As the temperatures drop and daylight becomes scarce, many individuals in the UK find themselves craving hearty meals, particularly soups. According to Stelios Kiosses, a psychotherapist and course director in culinary psychology at the University of Oxford, these cravings are more than a response to the cold; they are deeply intertwined with memory and emotion.

Kiosses explains that the desire for warming foods like soups, casseroles, and roast dinners during October is linked to psychological factors. He asserts that cravings are not random but are significantly influenced by our emotional states and past experiences. In his upcoming book on culinary psychology, he elaborates on how seasonal cravings are often tied to memories associated with specific foods.

“You’re not just craving the soup itself; you’re craving a feeling,” Kiosses stated. “Food taps into memory, emotion, and the desire to return to something joyful and familiar.” He highlights how the sensory experiences of autumn—such as the scent of spices simmering on the stove or the warmth of a fire—can evoke strong emotional responses. For many, enjoying a homemade soup transcends mere nourishment; it serves as a nostalgic reminder of cozy evenings spent with loved ones and cherished holiday traditions.

The connection between our senses and emotions is profound. Kiosses notes that both smell and taste are closely linked to the limbic system, the brain region responsible for processing emotions and memories. This connection means that when we consume certain foods, we engage an entire emotional network rather than simply addressing physical hunger.

Kiosses further explains that as autumn progresses, people often report an increased desire for traditional, heartier meals. “From around October onwards, many of us long for warmth while the weather outside is far from it,” he said. He emphasizes that home-cooked meals and seasonal produce help align our eating habits with the changing environment.

Food also plays a significant role in marking transitions in life—celebrations, periods of rest, and personal changes. Autumn, with its rich array of flavors and textures, allows individuals to reconnect with their food choices and the emotions they invoke. “It’s not just what we eat; it’s how we want to feel,” Kiosses added.

Being mindful of our motivations for reaching for specific foods can enhance our culinary experiences. Kiosses encourages people to recognize when they are seeking food for comfort or nostalgia, rather than strictly following dietary guidelines. “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,” he remarked.

With the arrival of autumn, many find themselves drawn to comforting dishes such as broccoli and stilton soup, cream of tomato, or ham and leek. Instead of overthinking these cravings, Kiosses advises simply enjoying the stories these foods tell and the connections they foster.

As the season unfolds, embracing these culinary traditions can provide a deeper sense of comfort and belonging, reminding us of the joyful moments tied to our favorite autumn dishes.