Baking for the Brain

Image Source: @saraelisa on Pinterest

We often bake to satisfy and nourish our stomachs, but baking can also be used to satisfy and nourish our brains. When we think of self-care, we think of getting a facial or a pedicure, but baking can be a form of self-care, too. Baking is an art that allows us to wind down and take things one step at a time, and that literally means one step at a time. 

I honestly see baking as a therapeutic activity; it allows me to zone out and take each step at the pace that I like. Baking gives you all the clear directions you need to follow. Unlike some situations we may find ourselves in, baking recipes don’t leave you in the dark. They don’t require you to guess or fill in the blanks; they communicate clearly from start to finish. Essentially, baking isn't unpredictable. Even when life may feel overwhelming, or you don't know what may happen next, baking has that sense of certainty that other situations in your life may not have. 

The Science Behind Baking & its Mental Benefits

So, what is it about baking that helps comfort us? Well, when we are stressed or sad, we often think and just think over the situation that’s making us feel this way, but baking is a distraction because of how much concentration it requires. Dr. Yalda Safai, a psychiatrist who resides in New York, says, “By engaging in activities that require focus for long periods of time, one can promote creativity and problem-solving skills and decrease stress associated with multitasking." 

There is also a sensory aspect to baking; it activates our five senses–touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing. Touching all of the ingredients, tasting the batter, smelling every ingredient, seeing the before and after product, and hearing the popping sounds when combining all the ingredients together strikes this kind of peace internally. It also allows us to reconnect with our surroundings and get a break from whatever you may be dealing with. 

Ultimately, baking isn’t just about nourishing our stomachs with something that’s delicious, but it’s also about nourishing our brains. Baking allows us to relax and store our negative thoughts and worries away for a little while. It’s important to remember to take things one step at a time.