by Jo Ann Wentzel

Created on: March 12, 2009

I often thought when I made home - made bread that I was indulging in a kind of therapy. The process seems to be able to change my whole outlook. Baking is a combination of mindless activity and complete concentration. It involves a variety of methods, processes and activities. Baking bread involves a few extra steps then most regular baking, adding even more therapy.

Of course the measuring of ingredients is a step which requires your full attention if you want good results. But, the mixing is one of those mindless activities, which leave you time to think. While using a large spoon instead of an electric mixer, which is better for bread in my opinion, you have nothing to worry about. You are methodically stirring, folding, and mixing, allowing your mind to run free. For many of us, there are few times in a day when our mind doesn't have specific chores to perform. Daydreaming seems to be an activity reserved for those housewives of the distant past. Now, there just is no time.

The best part of baking bread, however, is the kneading. When you knead bread it is a strenuous, physical process. You bring the dough forward with a pulling motion and fold and turn, repeating this process for ten minutes or more. During this time, your mind can wonder. Your body knows what to do. This physical activity feels good to your hands and arms. Actually, much of your body is involved when you do it properly. There is a sense of exhilaration and euphoria. The lumpy, stiff dough becomes smooth and elastic. There is a small sense of accomplishment even at this stage.

Letting the dough rise is part of the process, which gives you a chance to go do other things while you wait. Returning, you stick two fingers into the dough to see if the imprint remains. If it does, you can move onto your next step. Checking to see the dough has actually risen feels like reaching another small goal and makes you feel good - you really are special.

Now, the time has arrived when you can get rid of stress. You are allowed to be aggressive, even a bit violent in this safe contained way. It is now time to punch down the dough. With a mighty fist, you can punch that dough into submission to become the loaves it is meant to be. You can get rid of all the stuff that is bottled up inside. Here is the chance to get over the anger of being cut off in traffic, waiting in long lines at the grocery store, get back at those noisy, inconsiderate neighbors, and get even with the rude secretary you just dealt with

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