As the holiday season approaches, it is a great time to find comfort in time-honored traditions - one of my favourites being some festive baking. Whether it's cookies, pies, or bread fresh from the oven, baking offers more than just delicious treats; it’s also a powerful way to support mental well-being.
Baking and it's benefits:
1. A Creative Outlet -- Baking allows us to express creativity, from experimenting with new recipes to decorating cookies with festive designs. Engaging in creative activities has been shown to reduce stress and boost mood by giving our minds a break from daily worries and obligations.
2. Mindfulness in Action -- Measuring, mixing, and kneading dough all require focus and presence, which can create a calming, meditative experience. This mindfulness helps quiet the mental noise and promotes a sense of peace, especially during the often-hectic holiday season. Full disclosure - this is the hardest part for me! Haha. I am quite impatient at times and I have been working on slowing down and taking my time while baking.
3. A Sense of Accomplishment -- Finishing a baking project, no matter how simple or elaborate, can foster a sense of achievement. Watching loved ones enjoy something you’ve created adds to the reward, reinforcing feelings of connection and purpose.
4. Building Connections -- The holiday season is a time for togetherness, and baking can be a shared activity that strengthens bonds. Baking with family or friends can create lasting memories, while gifting baked goods can be a heartfelt way to show care and appreciation. My mom, sister and I have created the tradition of baking cookies together just before Christmas. For the past few years, we pick an afternoon, each pick our own cookie recipe and bake some festive cookies together with our favourite childhood Christmas movies playing in the background.
5. Aromatherapy for the Soul -- The scents of vanilla, cinnamon, and freshly baked cookies can evoke warm memories and feelings of nostalgia, which contribute to emotional well-being. These comforting aromas are like a hug for the senses, perfect for lifting spirits on a cold winter day. Our senses are so powerful! Using the 5 senses (sight, smell, touch, sound, taste) while baking can be a great way to keep us grounded and in the present moment.
As you plan your holiday activities, consider making time for baking. Whether you’re perfecting a family recipe or trying something new, the process can be as nourishing for your mind and soul.
Happy baking, and happy holidays! 🎄🧁
Sharing a few of my favourite holiday baking recipes below!
Salted brownie cookies: https://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/chewy-double-chocolate-chip-cookies-sea-salt/
Pretzel turtles: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/96749/pretzel-turtles/
Christmas monster cookies: https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/christmas-monster-cookies/
Gingerbread latte cookies: https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/gingerbread-latte-cookies/
-MWY
@mindfulwithyou | mindfulwithyou@gmail.com | www.mindfulwithyou.com
Comments