Mindful Baking, how being hands on in the kitchen can have Therapeutic Benefits
In today’s fast-paced world, finding moments of peace and tranquility can feel like a luxury. However, sometimes it’s all about simplicity and creating those moments in our everyday routine.
If you are somehow like me, you may enjoy getting in the kitchen, playing with the ingredients and letting human time stop, allowing your soul to be there living the moment. Beyond any delicious meal or baking that can be prepared, there is an amazing thing going on, that it’s not very often spoken about, how it’s a moment where both your body and soul are being nourished, and it’s called Mindful Baking. In this article, we’ll explore the art of mindful baking, its therapeutic effects and hopefully some inspiration for your journey to inner calm.
Where focus goes, energy flows – Tony Robbins
Mindful baking involves immersing yourself fully in the baking process, focusing your attention on each step with intention and awareness, enjoying and blessing all the steps – yes even those in which you screwed it up -. With a little of patience while you immerse yourself into this recipe, that begins with to set the intention to be fully there.
Whenever I really want to get into an activity, I’ve found that paying attention to the little things helps set the mood: maybe some music—classical if you’re feeling timeless, jazz for a smooth vibe, or your favorite karaoke or salsa playlist if you’re in the mood to sing along. Oh, and definitely give your phone a break (especially if you’re working with flour—trust me, you’ll thank me later), and try out any other easy changes to help you get in the zone.
Let all your senses be on stage and the sensory experience begin! Tune into the sights, smells, and textures of the ingredients, cultivating a deeper awareness of your surroundings and sensations, like a child does when “helping” mom or grandma in the kitchen—curiosity and exploration mode on… As you grab the dough, feel its texture, inhale its aroma—engage all your senses. Allow baking to be a creative expression as you experiment with flavors, textures, and decorations.
Engaging in the rhythmic motions of baking can help alleviate stress and promote relaxation. The repetitive actions of measuring, mixing, and kneading can be meditative, allowing your mind to quiet and your thoughts to start lowering down until fading away. For instance, kneading dough can become a form of moving meditation!
Incorporating mindful baking into your routine can be a transformative practice, offering moments of peace, creativity, and joy during daily life. Without even realizing it, you’ll be grounding into the present moment, boost your mood and self esteem by doing new things, new learnings! When kneading dough by hand, you’re stimulating these nerve endings, sending signals coursing through your nervous system. This tactile feedback triggers a cascade of responses in your brain, releasing neurotransmitters that promote relaxation and well-being.
Whether you’re kneading dough, whisking batter, or decorating cookies, take time to savor the process and appreciate the simple pleasures of baking, letting the magic of therapeutic baking help you relieve stress and learn relaxation techniques. By nourishing your body and soul with wholesome, healthy ingredients and lovingly crafted treats, you’ll discover the therapeutic power of mindful baking and find renewed balance and calm in every delicious bite.
Beso!
Gaby