Rustic Honey Cake | Simple By Cindy

I don’t know about you, but I am so looking forward to the summer. This past year has been a long one and I am hearing about so many people with so many problems. Many have had covid with devastating aftereffects. Some of us have lost loved ones, and most of us are just not ourselves, maybe feeling a little depressed dispirited.

How can we lift ourselves after such a crazy year? The answer is certainly not a simple one and not as easy as taking a shower or washing our hands. But there are some things we can do to help improve our moods. Here are a few ideas if you feel down:

Double down on your exercise. I know there are a million excuses not to exercise. Don’t give in, and make exercise a priority. Even if you can only dedicate ten minute to exercise, that adds up quickly over the course of a few months. Going for a walk or run is so beneficial for you in every way. Gretchen Rubin, author of numerous books including “The Happiness Project” and host of the weekly podcast “Happier with Gretchen Rubin,” says that the first step in boosting happiness is to take care of your body. “Your physical experience will always influence your emotional experience,” she says. “And exercise is the magical elixir of life.” Even light yoga can do the trick, she says, adding: “Research shows that even a 12-minute walk is sufficient to create an upbeat, happy mood.” I’m sure you can find that time in your day somewhere!

Connect with people. It is important to maintain our social relationships with friends and loved ones during this economic downturn. My favorite is a good old-fashioned phone call. Hearing people’s voices and speaking to them will definitely lift your spirits. During this past year, I made sure to stay in touch with everyone, especially my elderly aunts and uncles. Not only does it make me feel better, but it will help to make them feel better as well. Since we are not hugging and kissing like we were, hearing a familiar voice may be the next best thing.

Utilize social media. I have subscribed to a couple of different workout sites this year, trying things I would never have done before. There are so many different choices, no matter what your exercise preference or living situation! From yoga to Zumba to live-stream concerts or music, the internet is a perfect place for you to find something that will make you feel good and accomplished.

Finally, find something that makes you laugh. This can be a new baby, a pet, TV show, or podcast. A little laughter goes a long way for positive mental health. Certainly, you should not take yourself too seriously, so laugh at your mistakes too! Your upbeat mood may catch on, and you may find yourself a little happier than you were a minute ago.

Or, you can cook! Like this delicious honey cake that is so simple to make and wonderful to eat. This cake bakes up to a delightful treat that will surely put a smile on your face. The yogurt and eggs make this cake moist and satisfying. The honey brings a fragrant sweetness, and the vanilla adds savory goodness. Top it off with some of your favorite fruits and you have happiness in every bite. Perfect for anytime of the day or night.

This recipe is courtesy of a Taste of Home and will serve 12 people who will be all smiles after a taste of this delightful treat.

Ingredients for Rustic Honey Cake:

1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup honey
2 large eggs, room temperature
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Assorted fresh fruit and additional honey
Chopped pistachios, optional