4 ways baking can improve your mental health.
Former Great British Bake Off judge Mary Berry once said, “If you’re feeling a little bit down, a bit of kneading helps” – and she’s not wrong. Baking has the amazing ability to lift our moods, and can even help ease anxiety and depression. Here are just some of the reasons why:
Baking is creative
A little bit of creativity is good for the soul, and research suggests that people who regularly complete small, creative tasks (such as baking) tend to feel more relaxed and content in their daily lives. Whether you’re following a recipe or winging it, creating something in the kitchen offers a way for you to express yourself, which can reduce stress, increase self-esteem, boost focus and concentration, and improve your mental health.
Get more creative with these Christmas Baking Ideas for the Kids.
Baking is meditative
When you’re baking, you have to focus on the task at hand. Weighing the butter. Sifting the flour. Whisking the eggs. You are present in the moment – and while your attention is on the cake you’re baking, you’re no longer thinking of whatever problems occupied your mind before you started. Allowing yourself a quiet moment away from your stress and negative thought processes can calm the mind, and you may even have a fresh perspective once you’re finished.
You’ll need plenty of technique and focus for this Tall Baked Ginger Cheesecake With Rhubarb Cream.
Baking gives you a goal
No matter if you’re baking brownies, cupcakes, bread or cookies, when you start to cook, you know there’s a particular end result you’re aiming for. Anything that gives us a sense of purpose and direction is good for our mental health, and baking in particular offers tangible goals and marks of success. The goals are also generally achievable, meaning you can enjoy a great sense of accomplishment and self-worth once they’re reached.
Strive for that flop-proof sponge cake!
Baking helps us connect
One of the best parts of baking is when you share your creations with loved ones – and when you see them savouring something you’ve made, you can feel good that their happiness is because of you. Creating something for others to enjoy is always going to be a positive experience, and it can promote a feeling of wellbeing. The social aspect of sharing with friends may even increase your sense of connection to other people.