The last few years have been full of surprises and trends, one of which is baking. It seems like everyone has been getting in on the action, whether they’re making sourdough bread, cinnamon buns, or black bean brownies.
I have a theory about why baking has become so popular recently. I think that people are turning to baking as a form of mindfulness. In trying times, it can be easy to feel like we’re not in control of anything. Baking is a way to take control and ground ourselves in the moment. Plus, it’s a nice way to relax and destress. And let’s be honest—who doesn’t love the smell of freshly baked goods in their home?
So there’s no denying that baking can be good for your mental health. Here are 5 of the reasons why:
1. The Sense of Accomplishment
When you bake something from scratch and it turns out well, it’s a great feeling. You can share your creation with others or just keep it all to yourself (no judgement!). Either way, you get a sense of accomplishment that can be hard to come by these days.
2. The Soothing Power of Dough
There’s something about the act of kneading dough that is therapeutic. The repetitive motion helps to ground you in the present moment and can be quite meditative. Not to mention, the dough itself is soft and squishy, which makes it oddly satisfying to work with.
3. The Aroma of Freshly Baked Goods
The smell of freshly baked bread or cookies is enough to make anyone feel warm and fuzzy inside. And that feeling lasts long after the goodies are gone because the scent lingers in your home long after they’re out of the oven. Who doesn’t love coming home to the smell of fresh-baked cookies?
4. The Taste Test!
Of course, one of the best parts of baking is getting to eat your creation! And even if it doesn’t turn out exactly as you planned, it will still taste pretty darn good (probably - obviously don’t force yourself to eat something that resembles a burnt shoe sole). But either way, you get to enjoy the fruits of your labour and that is always a good feeling.
5. It’s a Great Way to Relieve Stress!
Baking can be a great way to relieve stress because it forces you to focus on the task at hand and be in the moment. It’s also a creative outlet that allows you to express yourself in a unique way. And let’s face it, we could probably all use a little less stress in our lives right now.
There you have it - five reasons why baking is good for your mental health. So next time you’re feeling stressed or down, try whipping up something sweet (or savoury) in the kitchen. You might just find that it helps more than you thought!
Check out the blog for some yummy baked goods recipes, including chocolate banana bread and cinnamon rolls.