Amen.

As a "hacker", I think a lot, all of the time.

So I cook to think about something else. Washing the dishes without dishwasher is also a moment where I let my mind wander.

Definitely not some time lost (to be honest I don't enjoy washing the dishes as much as cooking, of course, but I feel that connecting my brain on something "easy" is rahter good for me, else I'd jump on my computer right after eating...)

stf

I actually learned almost entire lambda calculus, partial application, currying & tons of other theoretical CS while cooking.

I usually buy a book (these days I'm reading "Elements of Programming") read a chapter and then build the mental model while cooking. Cooking is a double edge sword for me.

I've never thought of it like that. That comment helps, thanks.

Same here w.r.t. destressing. And when I need to cook but am not particularly in need of the mental break, I'll load up Ruby Rogues or another dev podcast and get some learning or inspiration added to the mix.

Thanks! I really hope I get to that level. I don't enjoy it so far, but I will do it until I do.