Bakers will tell you that there’s no better feeling than whipping up a sweet treat for a loved one. In fact, experts say that baking for others has psychological benefits that can curb stress and enhance your wellbeing. So, if you need an excuse to preheat the oven, we’ve got you covered.
HuffPost talked to associate professor of psychological and brain sciences at Boston University, Donna Pincus, about the benefits of baking. According to Pincus, baking reduces stress by amplifying mindfulness.
“Baking actually requires a lot of full attention,” Pincus told HuffPost. “You have to mea
sure, focus physically on rolling out dough. If you’re focusing on smell and taste, on being present with what you’re creating, that act of mindfulness in that present moment can also have a result in stress reduction.”
Seems like tons of people know stress baking on a personal level.
I swear, you can always catch me stress-baking this time of year. 🙂
— Sara Scott (@sara21scott) December 20, 2018
I have work to do, an internship to find, an apartment to clean, and a suitcase to pack but here I am just stress baking
— Nicole Harris (@nnicoleharriss) December 20, 2018
cooking/baking is how i relieve stress
— Flowergirl (@1970sVW) December 20, 2018
The process of baking takes you away from any other thoughts that may be weighing you down. You’re doing something productive, giving it your full attention, and ending up with an end product that can make you and others feel wonderful.
I love to bake! Made 14 dozen cookies today. Baking week begins. Gives me joy to bake for others!
— Tammy Crane (@mvbchurchchef) December 16, 2018
Furthermore, giving away your baked goods increases your feeling of wellbeing due to your compassionate behavior. Not only are you physically de-stressing, but you’re connecting emotionally with those you care for.
Showing love by baking or cooking meals for people either known or unknown to the person cook/baking. It is thoughtful, heartwarming and always wonderful.
— Michael Bain 🏳️⚧️🏳️🌈 ally (@mikejbain) December 19, 2018
“The most benefits [of giving away your baked goods] would accrue when you bake not to seek attention or to out-do others, but when you just want to share the food with people who you believe will appreciate it,” Susan Whitbourne, professor of psychological and brain sciences at the University of Massachusetts, told HuffPost.
She jokingly added, “As long as you’re good at what you bake.”
Inspired to bake now? Check out our genius cupcake hacks and bake a batch for your bestie this weekend!
And according to Julie Ohana, a licensed clinical social worker and culinary art therapist, per HuffPost, baking for others is just as comforting as receiving baked goods from a loved one.
The unselfish act of giving away your heart and soul in the form of a cookie or cake can not only brighten a loved one’s day, but it can turn your day around, too. Grab your whisk and your favorite recipe, and let the happiness flow.
