I was recently asked if I had any food vices and the answer is YES: cheeeeeeeeeeeese. I rarely go for the chocolate but do I go for anything creamy and cheesy.

Turns out that when it comes to food vices (or cravings) many of us don’t realize it but they are more than “just wanting something sweet”  — they are actually a sign of an imbalance.

Here are 3 causes to the cravings we all know so well & easy ways to curb them:

Comfort cravings

These cravings are the desire for comforting, sweet, creamy and bread-y foods. Experiencing this craving indicates an underlying desire for something warm, calming and nurturing as it’s often triggered by feelings of anxiety, insecurity, worry or sadness.

To satisfy this craving:

• have a long conversation with a friend

• listen to “sweet” music with a soft and melodic tone

• take a warm bath with a dab of sweet essential oil like lavender, or give yourself an oil massage

• drink warm fennel tea

• cozy up in a warm sweater on a comfy couch

• make a batch of Kitchari, it’s like a ‘hug in a bowl’

“I need to relax” cravings

The craving for quick, finger foods such as salty crisps and crunchy nuts, indicate feelings of stress, frustration, annoyance and anger.

To satisfy this craving:

• take an evening walk (aka. moon bathing)

• spray rose water mist on your face

• lay down & listen to a sound bath

• use sweet aromas, such as sandalwood or jasmine

• drink cardamom or licorice tea

Energy cravings

This is a craving for a quick pick-me-up; a coffee boost or a rush from a fizzy drink or chocolate bar. However, it's actually the body wanting something stimulating after experiencing feelings of lethargy, dullness, boredom or depression.

To satisfy this craving:

• listen to fast, upbeat music

• dry brush your body and oil massage

• use strong oils, such as bergamot or rosemary

• drink ginger or spiced tea