Spooky costumes, macabre accessories, trick-or-treating? What does Halloween really represent? What are all these October 31 rituals all about? These questions often remain unanswered, with the exception of vague or incomplete explanations…
Navigation
1. The Origins of Halloween
2. Dark Chocolate
1. The Origins of Halloween
Let’s start with the meaning of the word Halloween: a contraction of “All Hallows’ Eve” which means the eve of all saints. Halloween traditions as we know them today seem to have ancient Celtic origins. This festival of fear traditionally represented the dividing line between the end and the beginning of a new year, but also a link between the world of the living and that of the dead. A day where the spirits of those who have passed would be allowed to walk the earth once more. And so, it was at this specific time of year that the Celts wore scary disguises to ward off ghosts or to protect themselves by pretending to be one of them. Then, these Celtic tales took off on a path of their own and costumed children went around knocking on neighbours’ doors, symbolizing the souls of ghosts wishing to haunt human beings. Eventually, this special day took on the playful edge that we know today – amusing the young… and the not so young alike!
2. Dark Chocolate
We can’t talk about Halloween without mentioning candy… and who could say “candy” and not talk about chocolate! Dark chocolate, to be precise. A perfect reflection of this highly anticipated holiday with mysterious origins. Because yes, dark chocolate has many unexpected virtues. Since it contains fewer additives and less sugar, it helps to prevent certain cardiovascular diseases and premature aging and acts as a powerful antioxidant. Known and recognized for its benefits, its secret powers can be found in its cocoa powder which contains flavonoids, a substance that aids in lowering blood pressure and maintaining good cholesterol levels. That being said, it’s still chocolate and you should probably be careful not to overdo it… Three squares a day would be a good average. With this in mind, a good dark chocolate should contain a minimum of 43% cocoa. The higher the percentage, the better the quality.
* * *
So, what do you think? Why not combine the beneficial with the enjoyable? Treat yourself twice as much by celebrating Halloween with your loved ones and savouring some yummy dark chocolate – to respect the spirit of the holiday, of course!
Anything to add or send our way? Do so in the comments below!
Adapted from French by Erika Spedding
