Cooking has always been my passion – the creative freedom, the experimentation, the tactile experience of shaping ingredients with my own hands. It’s been both a practical hobby and a form of therapy for me for years. While dealing with the loss of my wife, food turned out to be a surprising catalyst for self-discovery. It went way beyond just trying new flavors or dishes. Experimenting with food helped me embrace change in a way that felt comfortable and therapeutic. Meal prep became an escape from the weight of the daily grind, allowing me to focus on the present moment. This experience is what I refer to as ‘food therapy’ – it’s not just about cooking, but about the escape and comfort that comes with sharing food and stories with others.
When we gather with loved ones, food is often the centerpiece of conversation. We bond over recipes, cooking techniques, and even the stories behind our favorite dishes. It’s a way to connect and find comfort in the present moment, without worrying about the past or future. For me, ‘food therapy’ is about finding solace in the familiar and gentle process of sharing food and stories. It helped me find a new sense of purpose and connection during my discovery of being a widower and a solo parent. I believe this concept could be incredibly beneficial for those who, like me, have experienced loss and are looking for a way to slowly re-enter their lives. It’s an encouraging and exciting topic that holds a lot of promise. My intentions are to help others find the same solace and benefit from this approach.
To learn more about my ideas on Food Therapy and to check out my recipes, please visit my food blog at domskitchen.com