How Making a New Recipe Was the Best Self-Care

I was flipping through my August issue of Real Simple when a recipe for Feta and Watermelon Grain Bowls piqued my interest. It included ingredients I love and looked like something I’d enjoy. I left a dog-ear on the page, finished reading, and placed it on the coffee table. Typically, I see recipes that look good but never make them, because I’ve never really made time for cooking. I do cook some, but stick to very basic, easy recipes that I repeat often. I’d often longed to be more creative in the kitchen but simply hadn’t made it a priority.

But I kept thinking about this recipe, because not only did it look delicious, it looked doable. I didn’t feel overwhelmed reading it, as sometimes happens to me. I decided I would actually make this meal. I gathered the ingredients and planned a night to do it (Wednesday). I’m a methodical person and perfectionist who usually follows all the rules. I placed everything I would need out on the counter, then popped my headphones over my ears, and pressed play on Taylor Swift’s Folklore.

And then, something that can only be described as magical happened. I felt my body and mind relax as I boiled the water, cooked the farro, made the dressing, chopped the watermelon, avocado, and feta cheese, and put everything together. All I was thinking about was what I was doing in the moment. No stressful thoughts creeped in. I was completely and totally focused and at ease. And then, afterwards, when I was finished – I had such a feeling of accomplishment. It turned out absolutely delicious and made me realize that I can cook.

Making this meal for myself felt like the best form of self-care. I did something that was just for me, and something that I normally don’t take the time to do. It was an absorbing activity that captured all my attention and left me with a feeling of peace and contentment. Then, I got to eat it, savor it, and share it with my partner. The entire process made me realize the little ways in which we can challenge ourselves to be, feel, and do better. Sometimes it just takes a small step in the right direction.

Is there anything you long to do that you haven’t prioritized? Make time for it, and see how you feel. To me, that is self-care.