Abstract
Chonapray is a newly created holistic therapeutic framework that incorporates three evidence-supported components – chocolate (CHO), napping (NAP), and prayer (PRAY) – to facilitate the overall aspects of mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Each element contributes individually to the promotion of both reduced stress and cognitive-emotional restoration: dark chocolate contains both flavonoids and phenylethylamine to help with mood and cognition, brain functioning; napping is beneficial for consolidation of memory, recovery of energy, and restoration of the brain; and prayer or mindful spirituality stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system to facilitate emotional homeostasis, inner tranquility, and resilience in coping with stress and anxiety. The current study assessed the conceptual underpinning of Chonapray through a literature review and a cross-sectional survey with 82 participants based in Pakistan, most of whom were students aged 15-25 years, a vulnerable group with significant academic and social stressors. The survey results indicated that 63.4 % of participants endorsed the use of prayer or spirituality as their primary means of managing their stress, while 30.5 % chose rest. Moreover, 44.2% and 42.9% stated they eat milk and dark chocolate, respectively, as comfort foods for emotional regulation. Stressors that were often identified included academic performance, financial difficulties, relationship conflicts, and past traumatic events. More evidence in the literature supports that dark chocolate improves cognitive performance and memory; napping reduces fatigue and improves alertness; and prayer reduces cortisol and improves emotional regulation. Combining this literature enhances the Chonapray model as a simple yet holistic self-care model that can address contemporary psychological and emotional challenges, especially among youth and disproportionately emotionally vulnerable populations.
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