Here’s how applying mindfulness when cooking can benefit you

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This article was written by Qaqamba Falithenjwa.

Life lately has been all about being mindful and demure, this is when you do things from a point of calmness and only minding what minds you. You are intentional about everything you do and don’t bother anyone. This has been applied to almost everything and anything and has proven to have certain benefits.

Have you ever heard of mindful cooking? Well, the Calm publication explains that mindful cooking has two types: inactive and active. Inactive mindful cooking is said to involve thoughtful planning, understanding food’s journey, and appreciating its role in health and happiness. The active technique is claimed to include fully focusing on every step of the cooking process, allowing one to be present physically, mentally, and emotionally. It is further stated that this practice can enhance meals, bring a sense of calm, and enrich other aspects of life.

According to Happiful, mindful cooking can help manage difficult emotions like anxiety or stress by stimulating all senses simultaneously. It is stated to provide a pause, allowing us to focus on the task at hand and shifting our mindset.

This way cooking breaks down tasks into smaller parts, making them less overwhelming, the above source continues. “Mindful cooking is an easy way to schedule some essential self-care because we all need to eat. Over the weekend, we might block out some alone time in the kitchen to try our hand at a technique that challenges us, or we might make a favourite meal with a loved one during the week to connect through a shared activity.”

To implement this method of cooking, the Headspace publication suggests that you remove your smartphone from the kitchen, turn off the TV, radio, and Alexa/Siri, and be aware of the food with all your senses. It is encouraged that you allow yourself to be present with the ingredients, sounds, smells, textures, and physical sensations of the kitchen.

This is believed to be able to help you appreciate and source ingredients with care and consideration.

This article first appeared on Bona.