Did you know that self-care and chocolate can go hand-in-hand? Embrace cacao for a blissful moment to yourself…

Self-care. It’s a term we’ve all heard of, but not necessarily acted upon. With the hustle and bustle of modern life, it can be hard to find those sweet moments of peace — even though we definitely deserve them. We understand that it can be hard to allow yourself some well-deserved ‘me-time’. Between children, work, and other commitments, it’s a concept that many of us aren’t used to. Ultimately, a self-care routine is something that takes practice.

So, in the spirit of learning, why not make it as delicious as possible? We are, of course, talking about adding chocolate to the self-care equation.

Self-care is essential, not optional

At Hotel Chocolat, we believe it’s time to see self-care as an essential practice rather than an optional activity. Instead of pushing self-care to the bottom of our agenda, it should really be at the top of the priority list.

There’s not always enough time to put yourself first, especially with work and family commitments — and we get that. However, self-care is a tool that we should learn to seamlessly weave into our day-to-day life.

Whether this be in the quiet moments before you start your to-do list, in the fleeting pockets of peace you find throughout the day, or in your wind-down evening routine – there’s a place for self-care in every schedule. Yes, even your own!

Chocolate as a self-care tool

Good for the heart, good for the mind and good for the soul. We might be a bit biassed, but we believe chocolate is an excellent self-care tool. It might not be the first that comes to mind when you think about a self-care routine — but it’s one that definitely shouldn’t be overlooked.

Whilst chocolate isn’t the same as lighting candles or a 5-step skincare routine, you can harness it to provide a sense of calm and enhance the practice of mindfulness. It’s a sensory experience, after all, and one that should be cherished.

Chocolate is extremely useful for mindfulness. Think about what makes your favourite cacao treat so divine. Its ingredients, its soothing texture, the delectable aroma, and its deep-rooted, historical origins.

It’s also an excellent tool for uplifting any negative emotions. We’ve all reached for a chocolate treat in a time of sadness or anxiety, and there’s good reason to. Don’t worry — there’s no shame or judgement on our end. Experts believe that chocolate contains serotonin and tryptophan: two neurotransmitters that may positively influence and regulate how we feel in a moment of imbalance. So, really, it makes perfect sense.

How to use chocolate in your self-care routine

Self-care and chocolate go hand in hand. So, we’ve put together a few delicious ways for you to incorporate chocolate into your self-care routine. This could be a daily, weekly, or monthly occurrence — whatever works for you.

We urge you to take these self-care ideas and make them your own. It’s important to remember that there is no ‘right’ way to do self-care. Self-care is understanding what your body and mind need at a particular moment, and acting upon it in a way that best suits you.

1. A moment of indulgence

There’s no better way to enjoy chocolate than tasting it. If you want to implement mindful self-care activities into your routine, we strongly recommend that you treat yourself to a well-earned box of chocolates.

White, dark, milky or fruity chocolate — whatever your preference — take the time to savour your chocolate treat when you get a moment to yourself. Eating mindfully let’s you savour each mouthful and get all your senses in touch. It’s all about being in the present. Many people find that mindful eating not only enhances their chocolate-tasting experience but also brings an element of calm.

But which chocolates are best for enjoying mindfully? The Everything Sleekster is the perfect way to lose yourself in 27 of our most iconic chocolates, including our smooth hazelnut pralines and patisserie-inspired treats.

If you require a touch more TLC, the Everything Sleekster Luxe offers 44 of our best-selling delights. It’s the best way to get the complete Hotel Chocolat experience, and then some.

From the delicate flavour notes to its soothing texture, eating chocolate is an experience and it should definitely be treated as such.

2. Divine self-care days

We all deserve a self-care day trip — either on our own or shared with a loved one. And what would a self-care day be without a stop for a drink and a treat?

At Hotel Chocolat, we have a variety of stores, cafes, and ice cream shops across the UK so you can treat yourself on your self-care day, no matter where you are.

Sample our divine, cacao-infused Ice Cream of the Gods. Alternatively, for a midday pick-me-up, savour the taste of our Iced Coffee Shake — where espresso meets ice cream for a creamy, malty flavour. If you’re feeling a bit peckish, indulge in our selection of brownies, cakes, and tarts.

If you want to extend your self-care day to the max and you’re in need of some sunshine, why not check out our Rabot Hotel in spellbinding Saint Lucia for an unforgettable holiday experience? Treat yourself to a fully immersive Tree to Bar chocolate experience, try out a cacao-infused spa treatment, and experience the iconic cacao-cuisine menu at the Rabot Restaurant — one of Saint Lucia’s most popular foodie destinations.

Overlooking a UNESCO world heritage site and the island’s iconic Petit Piton Mountain, whisk yourself away and immerse yourself in the world of cocoa for a self-care retreat.

3. Hot chocolate escapes

As we ease into the cooler months and the days become shorter, welcome the sunset and the end of your day with a steaming cup of cacao. After a busy day, create a daily evening ritual of making and drinking hot cocoa. It is a beautiful process, after all.

All it takes is 5 minutes out of your schedule, and the result is something delightful and warm for your tastebuds. Take a look at how to make the best hot chocolate, with expert advice from our Chocolat Chef, David Demaison.

For on-demand mouth-watering treats, we recommend our Everything Hot Chocolate Sachet Selection. Ten single-serve sachets with 10 beautiful flavours. Perfectly paired for divine drinks made with The Velvetiser for a silky, smooth hot chocolate.

4. Sweet social events

Laughing and socialising with friends is one of the most efficient ways to get the ‘good brain chemicals’ flowing. Serotonin and dopamine thrive off of social gatherings, especially when you’re surrounded by your nearest and dearest. And of course, chocolate can only make this experience better.

Organise a dinner party or a games night with your family and friends and laugh, joke, and chat the night away. To level up your hosting game, why not offer an after-dinner digestif? Our alcohol selection is specially curated to partner with our finest chocolates, both of which are perfect for an after-dinner treat.

Enjoy a cooling glass of our elegant Espresso Martini Velvetised Cream or Velvetised Chocolate Cream, lovingly shaken and poured over ice. Or, if you’re in the mood for a hot drink, pair this delicacy with a milky coffee or a rich hot chocolate. It’s a combination that’s sure to leave you feeling cosy and warm all night long.

5. Give the gift of cacao

We all love receiving gifts, but there’s something wonderful about giving. Being able to provide someone you love with a surprise gift will surely warm their heart, and yours.

If giving is your ideal love language, why not gift someone you love with a sweet gift they’ll be sure to enjoy? Who knows, they may even let you share a few treats if you’re lucky. Sometimes, presents don’t need to have a purpose or a reason. Instead, choose one of our delectable chocolate gifts.

Our selection of Chocolate Hampers is designed to suit every taste and preference. From those who love the taste of pure cacao to those who love to nibble on a few tipsy chocolate treats, you’ll be sure to find the perfect gift for the chocolate lover in your life.

Enjoy chocolate your way

From the taste and flavour to the texture of our chocolate, we want you to savour and enjoy every single bite, 100% guilt-free.

To make your self-care routine as sweet as possible, take a look at our range of chocolates and chocolate gifts to help you feel pampered, cared for, and rejuvenated. Select your favourite flavours, and immerse yourself in the wonderful benefits that chocolate has to offer.