How Cooking Can Be a Form of Mindfulness

Cooking has always been more than just preparing food—it has been my sanctuary, my escape, and my grounding force. It all started when I was in the military, where my days were often consumed by high-pressure situations, intense decision-making, and the weight of responsibility. I needed an outlet, something that could calm me, ground me, and allow me to release the day’s drama, emotions, and stress. That’s when I found cooking.

What began as a hobby soon turned into a deep passion. The act of chopping vegetables, the rhythmic sounds of sizzling in a pan, and the focus required to create something delicious transported me to a different mental space—one where I could be fully present. The moment I stepped into the kitchen, my mind quieted, my hands worked with intent, and I found peace in creating something that someone else would enjoy. It was therapeutic, a form of meditation in motion.

After my military service, I knew I wanted to pursue this passion professionally. Starting over at 37 in a brand-new career wasn’t easy. I was stepping into an industry where most people had been grinding for years, and here I was, a newcomer, ready to prove myself. But I had the determination and drive to make it happen. Regardless of what was going on around me, regardless of the chaos, I found my inner peace in the kitchen. There was something deeply rewarding about creating a dish that someone absolutely loved. It became my new mission, my new purpose.

Little did I know, this journey into the culinary world would also become a journey of self-discovery. Cooking wasn’t just about food; it was about understanding myself on a deeper level. The evolution of my craft mirrored the evolution within me—I was growing, learning, and embracing my inner self at a rate that even society seemed to struggle to keep up with.

My rapid advancement in kitchens was exciting, yet it also came with its own challenges. Within months, I was moving up the ranks, quickly becoming a manager and then a sous chef. But not everyone was pleased with my fast-paced progress. I could sense the resistance from those who had spent years working their way up the ladder, grinding day in and day out. It was an uncomfortable reality to navigate, but I stayed focused. I reminded myself why I was there—not for titles or validation, but because cooking was where I found my peace.

Cooking, for me, is mindfulness in action. It’s a practice of being present, of channeling my energy into something creative and nourishing. It’s a reminder that even in the busiest, most chaotic times, we can find calm in the simple act of creating. Whether it's in a professional kitchen or at home preparing a meal for loved ones, the kitchen remains my sacred space—a place where I can be fully engaged, fully alive, and fully at peace.