As we work, play and rest through life, we often find ourselves naturally evolving in how (and what) we prioritize in our day-to-day routines.
Hustling long and hard, avoiding sleep and pushing ourselves turns into maintaining our health, well-being and sleep hour count. Trying to fit in or keeping up with everyone who seems like #socialgoals turns into nurturing relationships that feel the most mutual, calm and kind. YOLO turns into a focus on vitality and longevity.
No matter how you choose to take on life as you approach or surpass the line between young adulthood and not-young adulthood, don’t forget to stop and enjoy the cocoa - our most delicious, time-honoured ally.
The Chemical Link Between Chocolate & Quality of Life
For generations, the main purposes of chocolate have been linked to wonderful things such as Valentine’s gifts, holiday gifts like chocolate bunnies and eggs at Easter, anniversary surprises and of course just sweet little treats when we need a pick-me-up.
It’s been so synonymous with pleasure, romantic or otherwise, that some remain unaware that there’s a biological reason for this tie, not just cultural/traditional.
Hello, Endorphins
Chocolate is not just a mood-enhancer because of its delicious taste but also because of its composition, which is made up of tyrosine, theobromine, and phenylethylamine. These are the compounds that stimulate the release of your dopamine and endorphins, aka the feel-good hormones.
A dopamine building block, tyrosine optimizes cognitive functions such as alertness, motivation and attention (especially in scenarios that require high mental focus/contribution) while theobromine is a more mild stimulant, boosting and sustaining your mood and energy.
Phenylethylamine encourages the creation of neurochemicals that support a range of cognitive aspects such as focus, motivation and, of course, heightened pleasure and arousal. It’s this compound that also makes chocolate a known aphrodisiac and intimacy primer when enjoyed with a partner (or partners).
Together, these compounds are an edible boost of happiness and pleasure, mentally preparing for the enjoyment of warmth, connection and well-being on the inside and the outside.
Serotonin, The Happy Stabilizer
In addition to being a high performer in our dopamine production departments, chocolate is also known for contributing to the production of serotonin, often known as our happiness hormone. This is thanks to two cacao ingredients known as tryptophan and magnesium.
An important amino acid, tryptophan is converted into serotonin, promoting calm, happy and content feelings.
Meanwhile, magnesium contributes to serotonin levels in a more stress-managing role, making you feel more mentally balanced and capable of handling both the ups and downs of everyday life.
The Long-Term Benefits of Chocolate
When you choose the most pure, high-quality cacao, like that found in Noorish's adaptogenic blends, you're investing in emotional well-being beyond your brief chocolate snacking time.
These positive effects carry into the long term, improving your mentality, emotional and physical well-being and quality of life. Here are just some of the major benefits:
Stress Reduction & Inner Peace - Like we mentioned above, the chocolate-activated contributions of dopamine, serotonin and magnesium make for a delicious way to unwind and find your inner zen.
Sharper Focus & Unleashed Creativity - By enhancing dopamine production, chocolate can sharpen your focus, boost concentration, and spark creativity.
A Happy Heart & Gut - Chocolate is packed with antioxidants and flavonoids. These contribute to better cardiovascular health and help balance out the microbiome in your gut. And when your gut feels good and your heart feels better, you’re a lot happier.
How to Add Chocolate to Your Daily Routine (Guilt-Free!)
At Noorish, we understand the importance of self-care and fostering meaningful connections. Our Adaptogenic Sipping Chocolates are designed to seamlessly integrate the benefits of cocoa into your daily life.
Infused with energizing adaptogens including maca, our Cocoa Sun Ritual is the perfect way to begin each morning with renewed energy and vitality.
For mindful moments throughout the day, reach for a small piece of dark chocolate for a quick mental reset or moment of calm amidst any chaos. For best results, ensure the cacao percentage is at 70% or higher.
Headed to the gym or a pilates class? Include chocolate in your post-workout smoothie for improved nutrient replenishment and that extra endorphin boost.
Then, when you’re ready to rest in the evening, our Cocoa Moon Ritual contains soothing superfoods like ashwagandha, supporting your ability to relax and get quality sleep.
In sweet conclusion, chocolate isn't just a little treat, it's a natural gift from nature, a source of joy and a powerful ally for a happier, healthier you.
So, embrace the blissful science of chocolate, indulge mindfully, and let its magic unfold in your life.
