Last Week, I stepped away from the convenience of online grocery shopping and decided to visit the local vegetable market. What I thought would be just another chore turned into a beautiful experience. Walking through the bustling stalls, surrounded by the vibrant colors of fresh produce and the earthy aroma of greens, I felt an inexplicable joy. There’s something magical about picking up a plump tomato, running your fingers over fresh spinach, or gently pressing an avocado to check its ripeness.

When I returned home and started cooking, I realized how deeply this simple act transformed my mood. Washing, sorting, and chopping the vegetables with my hands felt grounding. It wasn’t just cooking—it was an act of mindfulness, a connection to the earth, and a gesture of love toward the meal I was preparing. The process itself became therapeutic, and the food tasted better, not just because it was fresh, but because it carried the energy of intention and care.

It made me reflect on how our ancestors lived. They didn’t just consume food; they nurtured it—growing, harvesting, and preparing meals with patience and love. They experienced the full benefits of health, not just from the freshness of their produce but from the joy and effort they poured into their food.

In today’s world of instant gratification, aren’t we losing out on these simple, meaningful experiences? Convenience has replaced connection. We rush to save time, but in doing so, we lose the essence of life—the beauty of touch, the fulfillment of effort, and the joy of creating something with love.

This experience was a powerful reminder: the greatest joys are often the simplest. And they are free—waiting for us to slow down, notice, and embrace them. Maybe it’s time to pause, step back from the fast lane, and rediscover the profound happiness hidden in the ordinary.

• Ranjitha Raj