By Abigail Funk-Gifford of Rasa Spa
February is the month of love—and chocolate! Oh let us count the ways our bodies love chocolate, both inside and out.
1. It is packed with antioxidants that help support cell health. Flavanols and polyphenols are two of the compounds numerous studies have shown to decrease oxidative stress on the body—which can speed the natural aging process.
2. It awakens our senses. Next time you indulge in that square of dark chocolate, close your eyes, smell, and truly enjoy the taste. Take the moment for yourself.
3. It has anti-inflammatory properties. Flavanols are also responsible for anti-inflammatory benefits that help with conditions like arthritis and vascular disease, and joint health.
4. It has hydrating properties when used in skincare products. Two of our favorites that we use at Rasa Spa are Eminence Organic Skin Care’s chocolate mousse hydration masque for the face, and chocolate truffle body wrap.
5. The darker the chocolate, the better for extra minerals. Less sugar and more cocoa (where the good stuff comes from!) means you’re getting fiber, potassium, zinc, iron, magnesium, copper and more. Most studies say at least 70 or 80 percent cacao is best for these benefits.
6. Chocolate can even help prevent blood clotting. Polyphenols are responsible for increasing blood flow, reducing risk of clotting.
7. It might also make you feel happier. More recently, studies have shown that ingesting dark chocolate affects serotonin and dopamine, which make us feel good—not to mention the slight caffeine boost, which can also make us feel more upbeat.
By the way, we are featuring our chocolate-themed services at Rasa Spa this month. Our chocolate truffle wrap, chocolate mousse hydration facial, and cocoa enzyme peel facial are all on sale in February! Take 15% off these fabulous services Monday through Thursday and 10% off Friday through Sunday. Rasa loves chocolate too!
Abigail Funk-Gifford is the Spa Director at Rasa Spa, where she has been working on the management team since 2013. Originally from Vermont, Abby attended Ithaca College for a degree in sports information and never left the area after falling in love with the Finger Lakes. She loves calling both the Finger Lakes area and Rasa home.
