Stick to familiar recipes

When you feel especially stressed, it can feel overwhelming to learn something new, says Prihandito. “Stick to recipes you can almost cook with your eyes closed – the familiarity will be comforting, provide a sense of control and reduce the cognitive load.”

Experiment

“When you feel your stress levels are lower, this is the time to try out new recipes,” Prihandito says. “This stimulates the brain’s reward pathways, offering a sense of creativity, discovery, and achievement.”

Cook for your loved ones

Cooking for your loved ones, Prihandito says, can give you a sense of purpose and deepen your social connections, which are key for our mental health.

Engage in mindful listening

“Listen to a podcast or your favourite playlist that uplifts you,” Prihandito advises. “This can turn cooking into a more enriching and personal ‘me-time’ moment.”

Opt for ingredients that can give a mental health boost

“Use spices, herbs or ingredients rich in antioxidants and omega-3 that are good not just for flavour but also as enhancers of our mood and mental wellbeing,” says Prihandito.

Cook as a social activity

Invite your loved ones over to cook with you. “This social interaction can improve your mood, strengthen your bonds and make cooking more enjoyable,” Prihandito says.

Have themed cooking nights

“Choose a theme for the evening, like ‘Mediterranean Monday’ or ‘Mexican Tuesday’, Prihandito recommends. “This can add an element of fun and creativity to your usual cooking routine.”

Cooking can help improve your mental health – here’s how to harness the benefits