Today is World Chocolate Day. To celebrate, we're bringing you 15 benefits dark chocolate can have on health. From cardiovascular to psychological, from mental to dermatological. Let's look at different studies that have shown the benefits of cacao.

Mindfulness changes everything in that it allows us to really focus and become aware of ourselves, our bodies and our reactions to things. Mindfulness is a fantastic tool that we should incorporate into our existing repertoire of health tricks, from eating at home and fitting in the extra workout on the weekends to having an indulgence because there is nothing as good as a reward for the soul.

The art of developing balance best begins with a deep, healthy breath of fresh air. The breathing practice known as Yoga breathing, or more formally as Ujjayi breathing, is a time tested holistic alternative to achieving focus, rhythm, and positive thinking. In addition, the Ujjayi breathing technique brings a host of health benefits with every breath.

We were lucky enough to meet up with Rachelle Ballard for guided coaching on where to begin. Rachelle is the the passionate owner of Into the Woods Wellness and offers services dedicated to teaching health and mindful living. Rachelle has a master’s degree in Exercise Physiology: emphasis in Wellness Coaching and Nutrition, and is a 500 hr yoga certified instructor.

The goal in Ujjayi breathing is to develop mindfulness and health through a holistic control of the body’s nervous system. When the sympathetic nervous system is at play the body is typically on an extreme and seeking balance. Ujjayi breathing as a technique trains the body in achieving a homeostatic balance. Learning to feel this transition will come over time, and allow for feelings of relaxation and calm to flow as control over sympathetic responses in the body become more apparent. Mindfulness around such internal wellbeing will increase motivation and translate directly into physical feats not yet achieved.