Welcome to ‘Cacao Kitchen’ an ongoing collaborative series between Cacao.Co and author of “Therapy Kitchen” Charlotte Hastings. Together with Charlotte we will discuss being mindful and cultivating presence with both food and yourself. We invite you to get comfy, and join us as we introduce you to ‘Cacao Kitchen’.
We first met Charlotte at one of the many full moon swim events that happen in our hometown of Brighton. We joined forces to make restorative and most importantly WARM! cups of cacao for the brave sea swimmers getting out of the early December sea. We were instantly drawn to her knowledge and philosophy of food and cacao and after running into her at several events around town decided it was time to collaborate on something…
We must change our minds about what slowing down really means. Slowing down isnt about doing nothing; its about doing things intentionally and with care
In today’s fast-paced world, our worth is often equated with productivity, job output and even in the concept of personal health itself. You rest only briefly, charge the tank halfway, only to go at it again and be in the same place! Sometimes we forfeit self-care for hard work, become burnt out, and our bodies just can't keep up. Taking time for yourself means you can become more present with your work and your day-to-day essentials.
Over the next four weeks, we will be sharing a recipe and reflection of Charlotte’s across Instagram and here on our blog. We love Therapy Kitchens' positive message about mindful food consumption and how cacao can become a plant ally in a healthy and holistic diet. In the first “season” of our collaboration we will focus on the season of spring, its symbolism of growth and renewal and the importance of creating space to slow down and embrace restorative rituals.
Charlotte's Tips for slowing down and imporving your overall well-being:
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Take time for self-care: it looks different for everyone, so take the time and invest in finding out what it looks like for you.
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Find joy in the unexpected: While routine has its benefits, it can also lead to stagnation, overthinking, and a sense of monotony. Introducing variety can help maintain balance and prevent feeling stuck.
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Spend time with yourself, do things that will refill your tank. Hopefully, there are a few things that come to mind, things that you feel help you to take care of yourself and what you want to be doing in your own time.
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Nourish yourself from the inside: Don't look at food as something to be restricted and eliminated in order to achieve someone else's version of “health” but think what foods make YOU healthy and happy and take pleasure in sourcing and preparing it.
We are also pleased to announce we’re now stocking Charlotte’s Book “Therapy Kitchen” alongside a special Cacao.co book bundle, available now. Stay tuned for the first episode of ‘Cacao Kitchen’ by Therapy Kitchen, coming next Wednesday the 11th of March.
