The kitchen is a place of productivity and creativity, but for many people, it’s also a place of discomfort. The kitchen can be hot, stuffy, odorous, and conductive of repetitive strain injuries. But by changing the layout, what you wear, and the environment, you can make yourself much more physically comfortable during the hours you spend in the kitchen.
Tips for Greater Kitchen Comfort
These are some of the best ways to become more physically comfortable in the kitchen, no matter how much time you spend there:
- Lay down cushioning mats. Most kitchens have hard surfaces because they’re easier to clean and are generally more sanitary. But if you stand on these surfaces for hours at a time, they can eventually become very uncomfortable. One solution is to invest in cushioned anti-fatigue mats, which are designed to be much easier on your feet and lower body. These are especially important for areas where you spend a lot of time, such as in front of the sink or a large section of counter space.
- Wear the right footwear. If the cushioning mats aren’t helping your feet enough, you could invest in better footwear. For example, custom leather shoes or slippers could provide your feet with extra cushioning and more support. What’s most important is that you find a shoe that’s perfectly fitted to your foot so you can stand and move around comfortably.
- Install and use a ventilation hood. If you don’t already have a ventilation hood in your kitchen, consider installing one. If you have one, make sure you run it. Ventilation hoods are a great way to remove odors and cut back on airborne materials that might make you uncomfortable; for example, it can help dissipate fumes from onions that would otherwise sting your eyes. Some hoods can be loud, but you can always turn down the setting if it’s too much for you.
- Declutter and simplify the setting. Spend some time decluttering and simplifying your kitchen setting. Sometimes, our physical spaces feel off or uncomfortable simply because they’re cluttered with too many unnecessary items. Instead of having niche, complicated tools, focus on simple, versatile ones. If there are utensils or tools you haven’t used in years, get rid of them.
- Upgrade your utensils and tools. Take a look at your utensils and tools to see if any are worth upgrading. For example, a better kitchen knife can instantly elevate your cutting game; a superior blade will make cutting much easier, reducing strain and fatigue in your hands and fingers. It may also have a more comfortable handle, leading to a more ergonomic experience. Additionally, powered tools can help you cut back on manual effort in many areas.
- Watch your posture. Pay close attention to your posture as you continue working in the kitchen. There’s no reason to lean over with a hunched back as you prepare ingredients; instead, try to stand up straight with your shoulders back as much as possible. It may feel strange at first, especially if you’re not used to doing it, but it will eventually help you feel better.
- Keep cool. Kitchens can get hot, especially if you’re doing a lot of oven work in the summer. Accordingly, you’ll need to find peripheral waste to stay cool. Working away from the oven, running the AC, and investing in a countertop fan can all help you here.
- Practice mindfulness. Mindfulness meditation is a simple practice that takes years to perfect, but even as a newcomer, you can use it to become more comfortable in practically any environment. The basic idea is to focus on the present moment rather than getting lost in the past or future. If you can meditate consistently while cooking, you’ll be able to take your mind off any aches or pains that affect you – and you’ll bring a calm sense of satisfaction to your otherwise cluttered mind.
- Improve the environment. Next, consider improving your kitchen environment however you see fit. Some people want high-quality speakers to play their favorite music or podcasts while they cook. Others want tasteful décor that reflects their personality. Customize the environment in a way that you’re going to love.
- Take regular breaks. Finally, make sure you take regular breaks. Cooking is a physically intensive endeavor at times, so there’s no shame in sitting down for a few minutes between rounds.
Bonus: Get Some Help!
Here’s a bonus strategy for you: get some help in the kitchen. Ask your spouse, your kids, your neighbors, or your friends to come over and help you prepare some dishes. Not only will it lighten your workload, but it will also make the environment much more fun, social, and enjoyable. When you’re done with the meal or the snack, you can share in the fruits of your labor – and when you’re done, the space is going to feel just a little bit brighter.
Cooking is a fantastic hobby and a great way to make sure your meals are healthy, nutritious, and delicious simultaneously. But without some proactive work and a few choice upgrades, it can also be an uncomfortable hobby.
Hopefully, these strategies have given you some new options for managing your cooking responsibilities and enjoying your kitchen time more.