According to some studies, a little creativity each day can go a long way towards happiness and satisfaction in the hustle of one’s everyday life. People who frequently take on creative projects feel a greater sense of well-being and relaxation. Creativity goes beyond painting and scrapbooking. Cooking and baking have become common stress relievers for many people.
In fact, everyday tasks – like cooking – can make you feel more enthusiastic about your pursuits the next day, especially when you have the freedom of playing around with flavors and ingredients.
So, next time you’re having a bad day, don’t collapse on the couch. Rather take out your favorite recipe book. Here’s how cooking can make you happy.
The Endless Opportunities
The kitchen provides no limits to expressing your creativity and finding your flow. Cooking may feel like a chore, but if you suffer from anxiety or you’re feeling down, spending time in the kitchen can ease stress and restlessness while enhancing mindfulness.
You Get an Award at the End
Creative projects usually present two different aspects of mental health – an activity and a result. Both have benefits. Cooking and baking are no different as you get something tangible for your effort that can be enjoyed and shared with others.
It Makes You Focus on Something Else
Following an easy recipe doesn’t create anxiety, but it does encourage you to focus on what you’re doing. Doing an activity that makes you feel grounded carries strong mental health benefits.
It Saves Money
Money problems can exacerbate mental health conditions and put pressure on intimate relationships. Cooking at home tends to save you money, which positively impacts a person’s overall financial situation. It’s also a way to bond and spend time with loved ones.
It Feels Good to Do Something for Others
One aspect of doing something creative that’s beneficial for mental health is doing or making something for others. Cooking or baking something are ways to bond with others, show you care in a time of crisis, to celebrate or entertain, or just to nourish.
Simple Steps to Happy Cooking
- Find Your Confidence
Find simple recipes you think you’ll enjoy making and eating, and master those first. Then you can move on to more difficult recipes. You can start out by googling “healthy, easy recipes” and you’ll come up with a ton of recipes from which to choose!
- Grow Your Ingredients
Picking fresh herbs and veggies and adding them to your dishes can give you a great sense of pride and achievement.
- Cultivate Mindfulness
Smell the ingredients, feel the textures, and mix different foods together. Take note of all the sense as you spend time in the kitchen. Experiment!
[RECIPE] GARNET SALAD
Serves: 2
Ingredients (use organic where possible):
- 4 cups chopped romaine
- 1 medium beet, grated
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 15-ounce BPA-free can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 large orange, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup blackberries
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds or sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup Maple Mustard Vinaigrette
Ingredients (use organic where possible):
- 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard
- 1/4 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
- Water, to thin if desired
For an omnivore option, add 8 slices of nitrate-free deli turkey
Directions:
- Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add coconut oil.
- Once the oil melts, add onions, apples, and sliced fennel. Sauté for 5 minutes.
- Add chicken.
- Season with rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
To Your Health,
Patti
