What is your first memory of being in the kitchen? Perhaps it’s making biscuits with your parents,     1     helping your family prepare a large meal for a special festival. Cooking can let you remember the people you love. It can also be a comfort when you are feeling down.

Cooking     2     (find)to lessen stress and improve well-being so far, according to the Mental Health Foundation. Like other     3     (create)hobbies, it allows you to use your imagination, try new things and express your personality     4     (free).

Cooking encourages being in the present moment, because by     5     (focus)on cooking, you are less likely to think about your worries. When life throws up unexpected     6     (event)and situations, cooking can feel like a safe and calming activity. For example, during the COVID-19, ingredients(原料)such as eggs, flour and butter, were     7     high demand because so many people turned to make cakes and bread to fill the time and lift their spirits.

Cooking is a great way     8     (learn)about different cultures and taste your way around the world. For example, pizza transports you to Italy and sushi provides a taste of Japan.

Cooking also brings people together. Sitting down to eat with friends and family     9     (build)strong social connections,       10     is known to be good for people’s mental and physical health.