When you’re busy or stressed, your first instinct is often to order takeaway or pop something in the microwave. If you try cooking more frequently, you could end up with less stress — and a great home-cooked meal.
Photo by Noodles and Beef
The Wall Street Journal talks about a new trend of using cooking classes to treat mental health disorders. But you don’t need to have a disorder to benefit: instead of viewing cooking as a chore, use it as a way to relax at the end of the day:
The courses are often partly aimed at teaching healthy cooking and eating skills to people living tough, chaotic lives. Counselors say the classes also soothe stress, build self-esteem and curb negative thinking by focusing the mind on following a recipe. Often the courses are part of a larger treatment plan that can also including talk therapy or medication.
When you cook at home, you regain some control of your life. You’ll save money and enjoy time with your family. Put your phone on do-not-disturb so emails and callers won’t take away your focus. Listen to some music or just enjoy the silence. Pay attention to the food and take pride in your creations. If you plan your meals in advance, you can squeeze in time to cook at least a few meals each week (without the stress).
A Road to Mental Health Through the Kitchen [Wall Street Journal]
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