Cooking heals the body...sortive.

Did you know that The Nintendo gaming system Wii has cooking games now? Apparently these games, like Cooking Mama allow gamers the oppurtunity to practice cooking or at least the act of cooking without turning on a real stove or going to the grocery store to buy the ingredients. Players can learn how to make World cuisines of all types, from curry and naan to ratatouille or sushi. Using the stylus or the controller, players learn the proper movements and techniques that real world chefs use in there kitchens in preparing food.One can dice,chop,grill,saute,mix,sprinkle and even roll. The Food Network game Cook Or Be Cooked actually gives tips and instruction to the players as they cook. These games can be played by one person or you can have a cook off with friends. The medical world has discovered the benefits of using the Wii cooking games in physical therapy and rehabilitation in burn and stroke patients. Apparently the games challenge these specific group of patients by allowing them to work the joints and muscles of the body parts that have been affected by their illness or injury and preventing a worsening of their condition. The games are beginning to take the place of traditional physical therapy treatments and are extremely entertaining, therefore patients are distracted from the pains of their burns and injuries and getting a good work out as well. Im proud to be working at the hospital that is doing just that. Who knew cooking could heal the body?Sortive. Cooking Mama is a little cheesy in their animation but entertaining and cute and The Food Network's game has a crisper picture and animation with a little more virtual reality involved.