Lift & Shift Foundation

Cook Away That Stress

  ← Back to Resources

The Stress-Relieving Hobby of Cooking

Discover the Therapeutic Power of Cooking

Cooking is more than just a necessary task; it can be a stress-relieving hobby that nourishes both body and mind. Engaging in the art of cooking has the potential to transport you to a world of flavors, creativity, and relaxation. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, the process of cooking can offer numerous benefits for your well-being.

Gordon Ramsay Teaches Cooking on MasterClass

Looking for more info on stress?

Benefits of Cooking as a Stress-Relieving Hobby

Exploring cooking as a hobby can bring a range of positive effects on your overall stress levels and mental well-being:

  • Enhanced Mindfulness: Cooking allows you to be fully present in the moment, focusing your attention on the ingredients, flavors, and techniques involved.
  • Creative Expression: The kitchen becomes your canvas, where you can experiment with different ingredients, flavors, and presentation, expressing your unique culinary style.
  • Sense of Accomplishment: Preparing a delicious meal can provide a deep sense of satisfaction and accomplishment, boosting your self-confidence and overall mood.
  • Stress Reduction: Engaging in cooking can act as a form of relaxation and stress relief, providing a productive outlet for your energy and emotions.
  • Healthy Nourishment: By cooking your meals at home, you have control over the ingredients, enabling you to make healthier choices and prioritize your nutritional well-being.

Getting Started with Cooking as a Hobby

Ready to embark on your culinary journey? Here are some tips to help you get started:

  1. Start Simple: Begin with easy recipes and gradually expand your skills and repertoire.
  2. Explore Different Cuisines: Dive into the diverse world of flavors by trying recipes from various cultures.
  3. Experiment and Adapt: Don't be afraid to put your spin on recipes, adapt them to your taste preferences, and let your creativity shine.
  4. Take It Slow: Enjoy the process of cooking; savor the aromas, textures, and tastes as you create your culinary masterpieces.
  5. Share and Connect: Invite friends and family to share meals you've prepared or join a cooking community to connect with fellow enthusiasts.

Join the Cooking Community

Embrace the art of cooking and unlock a world of stress-relief and culinary delight. As you embark on this journey, remember that cooking is not just about nourishing your body but also nourishing your soul. Allow yourself to get lost in the rhythm of chopping, the aroma of herbs and spices, and the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. Whether you're a novice or an experienced cook, the benefits of cooking as a hobby are within reach. So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the transformative power of cooking bring harmony, mindfulness, and pure satisfaction to your life. Start your culinary adventure today and savor the moments of serenity and joy that come with it.

Support the Lift & Shift Foundation

We believe supporting stress-reducing hobbies is an important part of our mission. If you found our tips helpful, please consider sharing them with your friends, family, and community. You never know who might benefit from picking up a pen and putting their thoughts on paper. And if you'd like to stay up-to-date on our latest stress-reducing activities, join our email newsletter today.

References:
  1. Farmer, Nicole et al. “Psychosocial Benefits of Cooking Interventions: A Systematic Review.” Health education & behavior : the official publication of the Society for Public Health Education vol. 45,2 (2018): 167-180. doi:10.1177/1090198117736352
  2. Hanson, Andrea, "An Evaluation of the Relationship between Cooking and Wellness Behaviors in College Students" (2017). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 1232.
  3. Farmer, Nicole, and Elizabeth W Cotter. “Well-Being and Cooking Behavior: Using the Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment (PERMA) Model as a Theoretical Framework.” Frontiers in psychology vol. 12 560578. 12 Apr. 2021, doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2021.560578
  4. Güler, Ozan, and Murat İsmet Haseki. “Positive Psychological Impacts of Cooking During the COVID-19 Lockdown Period: A Qualitative Study.” Frontiers in psychology vol. 12 635957. 18 Mar. 2021, doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2021.635957