For many, the delicious smell of freshly baked cookies is more than just a treat—it’s a comforting reminder of the small joys that bring us all calm. Amidst the stress of incoming finals and classes picking up, UVA students are finding solace in the kitchen. The University’s new Baking Therapy Club is a student-led initiative to foster mental health awareness through a common hobby. By combining a relaxing pastime with a meaningful cause, this club is for students to come unwind and help make a difference by contributing to significant issues such as suicide prevention.
Research has proven that baking is more than just whipping up cakes and cookies; it also has therapeutic benefits. In an article by Huffpost titled “Psychologists Explain the Benefits of Baking for Other People”, Boston University professor Donna Pincus says, “Baking has the benefit of allowing people creative expression… There’s a lot of literature for connection between creative expression and overall well-being. Whether it’s painting or it’s making music [or baking], there is a stress relief that people get from having some kind of an outlet and a way to express themselves.” By channeling any negative energy into a creative process, individuals can relieve stress while uplifting their emotional health. Therefore, baking could provide the same benefits as other forms of artistic expression such as journaling or doodling. As just another form of healthy coping, baking is a positive way to lose yourself in the process. This insight aligns with the Baking Therapy Club, which encourages baking as a way to relax and connect.
The club’s first meeting, held on October 24th, set the tone for its mission and provided a glimpse into how the activities would run. Prospective members learned how to make cake pops, a playful yet convenient way to enjoy a classic dessert. These bite-sized treats were then sold in a fundraiser just two days later, marking the first of many contributions that the club plans to make toward mental health causes.
To learn more about Baking Therapy Club, I reached out to its president and founder, Hannah Yim. In our conversation, she answered questions about the origins and inspiration of the club as well as her aspirations for future activities.
Q: What is the Baking Therapy Club?
A: Baking Therapy at UVA is a club where UVA students can come to learn more about mental health awareness, as well as bake and eat some delicious treats that will be used to fundraise for causes like suicide prevention!
Q: Why was this started?
A: The club was established for the expressed purpose of bringing stressed college students together to bake treats and share them with others, as well as fundraising for mental health and sexual assault organizations on grounds, with a focus on suicide prevention.
Q: What are the goals of this club?
A: The goals of Baking Therapy at UVA are to be a calming and relaxing experience for students so that they can destress or find a community, and to support mental health organizations like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Q: What is in store for the future, in terms of activities or events?
A: In the future, we plan on having many more baking sessions for our club members, including some for the holidays! So keep your eye out for any workshops or opportunities to buy our treats.
Q: Why should students join this club?
A: Students should join Baking Therapy if they like to bake or are interested in learning how to! Our club is also a great opportunity to support a good cause while having a lot of fun and making new friends.For students seeking a creative outlet to manage stress, the Baking Therapy Club presents a new and unique opportunity. Whether you are an avid baker, a proponent for mental health, or simply someone who enjoys eating sweet treats, the club creates a relaxed and welcoming space to engage in a fun hobby. Every student is invited to join and contribute to the club’s cause, experienced baker or not. To stay informed on upcoming meetings, workshops, or fundraisers, follow the Baking Therapy Instagram.
Liberals need so much therapy today 🙄 big shocker that this came after the election. Wow! The writer of this article is so good though, would love to read more about future President Trump from you!