When you’re stressed out, you might find yourself reaching for the frozen foods or pulling into a drive-thru. Cooking may seem like one more to-do after a long day, but making a healthy, satisfying meal at home can calm your nerves.
People who frequently engage in small creative projects, like cooking, have been proven to feel happier and more relaxed. “Cooking therapy” is even being used as a way to treat mental health issues. No matter what you have on your plate (pun intended), enjoying a home-cooked meal may be just the thing you need to refocus your mind and energy. Here’s why cooking is the ultimate stress reliever.:
- Cooking is a creative outlet. Whether you want to try 100 new recipes, enjoy experimenting with spices, or are perfecting your own creation, cooking is a powerful tool for self-expression. Once you understand the basics, put all expectations aside and create something that’s uniquely yours. Need a little help getting started? Chef Lynn Michelle offers cooking classes for all skill levels and interests.
- Cooking becomes a ritual. Cooking a meal every day helps you prioritize time for yourself. Plan in advance, so you can remove the stress from cooking. Don’t try to multitask when you’re in the kitchen – make cooking the only focus and allow it to be relaxing and enjoyable rather than chaotic.
- Cooking can be a social activity. Nothing brings people together quite like food. When you’re laughing with friends or family in the kitchen, your worries are sure to fade away. Ask Chef Lynn Michelle to help you design the perfect crowd-pleasing menu.
- Cooking is a form of aromatherapy. Preliminary studies have shown that focusing on certain smells can reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Enjoying the scents of rich spices and herbs can bring your awareness back to the present.
- Cooking builds confidence. Many people experience a flash of dopamine, the “reward” hormone, when they achieve a new skill or experience praise and validation. When everyone at the table goes back for seconds, it’s hard not to feel happy. The confidence gained through cooking translates into other activities, which means you’ll be equipped to handle challenges in other areas of your life.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or are learning your way around the kitchen, Chef Lynn Michelle can show you how to make the most of your time in the kitchen. Call her today to learn more about her in-home cooking classes.