Culinary therapy works

As culinary therapy gains popularity, psychologists say the therapeutic effects of cooking and baking cannot be ignored. They say that cooking is being prescribed world-over for the treatment of anxiety and depression because of its meditative quality.

Dr Pragya Rashmi, a consultant psychologist, said, “For centuries, cooking has been used as a means of venting, a catharsis. It activates all our sensory organs and also leads to reminis- cence when the smell or taste of a dish brings back good memories.”

Psychologists say that the activity levels of patients suffering from depression and anxiety decline drastically, thus affecting their mental health.

Dr Diana Monteiro, a psychologist, said, “Patients who are depressed will stop doing the things they enjoy doing such as taking walks and reading books. Good food is something that everyone enjoys. Cooking a dish for oneself and for one’s family can give patients a sense of pride and accomplishment, which is the aim.”

Dr Bharat Kumar Reddy, a psychologist, said, “Patients with chronic mental disorders experience a slowing down of mental activity. To kick-start the drive in them, we often get them to cook or bake. They experience a rush when they successfully create a dish; it inspires creativity in them. I have seen many cases were patients begin experimenting with ingredients. Some even end up taking it up professionally.”