"Once we've sourced our food, the next step is preparing it. This part of the process can also be an avenue for enhancing teen mental health – particularly when young people approach cooking as a creative activity that they enjoy doing with and for others.
A recent study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology followed more than 650 young adults. Each day, they reported how much time they spent on creative activities and how they felt that day. The researchers found that the adolescents experienced greater flourishing and positive emotions on the days following increased creative activity.
Thus, when we approach cooking as a creative act, there are mental health benefits inherent in the process. And, if we're working alongside family or friends, the enjoyment and connection we feel are also mood boosters."
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