The Sages^[1] received a tradition that all the Melachos that are defined as Ochel Nefesh, and the Torah permitted to be performed for the sake of food, are likewise permitted to be performed on Yom Tov for even non-food related matters.^[2] It however is only permitted to be done if the action involves some Yom Tov need.^[3] For example, it is permitted to do so if it is being done for the need of benefiting the body, or for the sake of a time passing Mitzvah that must be performed that day^[4], even though it is not being done for the sake of food. Nonetheless, it is only permitted to be done for bodily benefit, if this benefit is relevant to all the Jewish people [and not to only a specific class of society, such as the pampered and wealthy and the like].

Examples of Melaches Ochel Nefesh that have bodily benefit and may be done for even non-food purposes:^[5]

1. One may carry objects [i.e. non-food items] from a Reshus Hayachid/private domain to a Reshus Harabim/public domain [even if the public area does not have an Eiruv], if one needs to use that object in the public domain [on Yom Tov].^[6] It is permitted to carry even items that could have been carried to their destination before Yom Tov.^[7]
2. One may light a candle [from a preexisting flame] for the sake of using its light to do matters that are needed on Yom Tov [or for the sake of heating one’s home], even though the fire is not needed for cooking purposes.

Examples of Melaches Ochel Nefesh that may not be done for bodily benefit, being it is not relevant to all the Jewish people:

1. Heating water for a hot bath.^[8]
2. Burning incense.^[9]

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[1] Mishneh Beitza 12a

[2] The reason: The Sages received a tradition that since the Torah permitted these Melachos to be performed for the sake of food, they therefore completely permitted them to be performed, even not for the sake of food. [Admur ibid]

[3] Admur ibid; Rama 518:1

[4] The reason: A time passing Mitzvah is considered like bodily benefit regarding this matter. [Admur ibid; See Admur Kuntrus Achron 495:3]

[5] Admur 495:4

[6] Admur 495:4

[7] Admur 495:8; Rambam 1:5

The reason: Now, although in general the Sages prohibited one from doing Mileches Ochel Nefesh in its regular fashion if it could have been done before Yom Tov, this is because the Sages wanted one to have time to spend in Simchas Yom Tov. Now, regarding carrying, we say a contrary claim, that the Sages specifically did not regulate it in order to increase one’s joy of Yom Tov, so he can go and bring anything he wants and have all the items that he needs, and that his hands not be tied with restrictions. [Admur 495:8; Rambam ibid] Thus, at times we use the concept of Simchas Yom Tov to limit one’s actions on Yom Tov, and at times we use it to not place regulations, depending on each situation.

[8] 2^nd opinion in Admur 511:1

[9] Admur 511:5