A lot of my friends and family wonder why I enjoy being in the kitchen so much.  For me personally, cooking and baking is relaxing.  While cooking is more of throwing things together depending on my mood, baking requires a little more finesse and concentration.   I have always found it to be an outlet for stress and a time to just enjoy myself. 

Now, whipping up treats in the kitchen can do more than just tasty and delicious treats. According to several sources in both the culinary and mental health worlds, baking has been found to have therapeutic value.  Which means for some people it could helps ease depression and anxiety.  The reason may surprise you. 

 

1. COOKING IS MEDITATIVE

Any activity which takes your whole attention – especially if it's simple and repetitive – can have a calming effect. The whole process from weighing out butter, measuring out the sugar, beating the eggs, and combining the flour helps relax your brain. It creates space in the mind and can help eases a negative thinking processes.

2. Baking stimulates the senses.

Baking is very hands on and makes you use all of your senses.  From the sound of the mixer, to the feel of the flour, and of course the smell of the tasty pastries in the oven, they all stimulate your senses. When you stimulate your all of your senses, it increases feel-good endorphins.

3. NOURISHING ACTIVITIES FEEL GOOD

Baking or any sort of cooking, is really about feeding ourselves and others. To help this particular advantage, make an effort to acknowledge all the healthy ingredients and love that go into your baked goodies.

4. BAKING IS CREATIVE

Psychologists have found a strong link between being creative and your overall well-being. So go ahead and dive in!! Experiment with those recipe, try out new designs, textures, and flavors. 

5. MAKE OTHER PEOPLE HAPPY

One of the best things about baking is that you can give away your delicious treats which not only can put a smile on other’s people faces, but will make you happy as well. I love when my “Cookie tasters” get to try a new recipe I have worked out.  It's a win-win for all. 

I would love to hear what your favorite part of being in the kitchen is!! Let me know in the comments!

As always, Happy baking

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