Psychologists say baking reduces stress and anxiety (2024)

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Psychologists say baking reduces stress and anxiety? ›

Over the years, researchers have shown evidence that the act of baking triggers various parts of our brain, including the amygdala (the part of our brain where emotions are given meaning) and the hippocampal cortex (memory retrieval) which can ultimately help us reduce stress and anxiety.

Baking is a great activity for stress relief. Not only can you take out some of your frustrations on your dough, but baking can also reduce stress hormones such as cortisol.

Sense of Achievement

Completing a baking project, whether it's a simple batch of cookies or an intricate cake, provides a tangible sense of achievement. This feeling of accomplishment can boost self-esteem and reduce feelings of helplessness or anxiety.

By focusing on the task at hand, you can let go of stress and anxiety and feel a sense of accomplishment when your baked goods are finished. Baking Can Boost Your Mood - The act of baking and creating something delicious can release endorphins, the "feel-good" chemicals in your brain.

Baking is a mindful activity

Baking requires attention, which helps you to focus your thoughts on something positive, rather than the mess of thoughts flying around your head. It can help to calm your nerves and ease anxiety.

What is baking therapy? Though not an official form of therapy, many health professionals ranging from psychiatrists to nutritionists recommend baking to ease stress, anxiety, depression, rage, and other negative emotions.

"The physical activity and sensations associated with baking can be very grounding for people who feel anxious or overwhelmed, as it heightens awareness of their body and being present in the moment; both of which can reduce stress and improve mood," Beurkens says.

Over the years, researchers have shown evidence that the act of baking triggers various parts of our brain, including the amygdala (the part of our brain where emotions are given meaning) and the hippocampal cortex (memory retrieval) which can ultimately help us reduce stress and anxiety.

Since baking is an enjoyable activity for many, it not only helps you regulate your mood but boosts it as well. When you partake in an enjoyable hobby, your brain rewards you with endorphins, a.k.a. feel-good chemicals. Maybe it's the sweet smell, the feel of soft dough, or the satisfaction of putting the icing on top.

Does baking make you happier? ›

It definitely can. The brand Dr. Oetker carried out a study and two-thirds of the participants said that their emotions benefit from baking. A further 61% said that sharing their baked goods with other people made them happy.

Baking also satisfies the emotional need for purpose. “Baking for others can increase a feeling of wellbeing, contribute to stress relief and make you feel like you've done something good for the world, which perhaps increases your meaning in life and connection with other people,” says Dr Pincus.

Read the Recipe Through Completely

You must read and re-read your recipes before beginning anything. Human error, even for the best bakers, can get in the way and ruin your entire endeavor.

Experts say baking can help reduce stress and anxiety. Baking provides a creative outlet for expression, which helps people focus on the task at hand. This is why it's often seen as an art form therapeutic to those who bake. Baking is a therapeutic tool that helps reduce stress and anxiety.

When people feel anxious, they look for something to do, a distraction of sorts, and baking provides just that for many people.

Baking is a perfect way to practice mindfulness. To successfully bake a cake, some biscuits or a loaf of bread, we need to pay close attention to the recipe.

Avoid foods that can trigger anxiety.

Some foods can make anxiety worse, especially processed grains, fried chicken, potato chips, and french fries. It's also a good idea to limit sweetened beverages, cookies, cakes, and candy.