Coffee is more than just an aesthetic morning drink—it’s a way of pouring back into ourselves. It’s an intentional moment where we could take time out of a busy work schedule to check in with our mood. How’s the day looking? When can we take mental breaks to show up as our best selves today? Are you OK?

As a Latina, coffee is deeply rooted in our culture. It’s a self-care ritual that we often utilize to boost our energy or simply as a treat with our loved ones. And as we grow older, it’s becoming more of a wellness practice that dates back generations. I remember when I was little, I’d ask myself why my tías would spend hours drinking late-night coffees as they talked about their lives. Surely they have better things to do. But now, I’m confident they were on to something. They were showing the next generation how coffee is a way of claiming slow living. Of stopping time to convivir with the ones who matter the most. Of taking back time. 

Now, as adults, let’s take a look at how we can use coffee breaks as time to reflect and be intentional—just as our abuelitas intended. 

Use coffee breaks as a calm, mental check-in

Mornings don’t have to be rushed. Like our ancestors, why not make it a calm ritual? As you make your morning coffee, give yourself grace and ask yourself how today’s looking. How are you feeling today? What are the main tasks to realistically get done today? And no, it’s not selfish, it’s much-needed “you” time. 

@homecafebymills_

what makes you feel calm? 💗🧘‍♀️ #prettydrinks #romantisizeyourlife #dalgonacoffee #dalgona #whippedcoffee #coffeerecipe #coffeelover #coffeetiktok #girltherapy #homecafe #cozyroom

♬ the gold – –

Use coffee to take the edge off

Using coffee to “take the edge off” is a way to be intentional with your time. It’s an opportunity to stop the chaos surrounding us and realign with your day.

@_melserrano

Hits everytime 👏🏼 #coffee #coffeetiktok #coffeetok #espresso #icedlatte #athomecoffee #taketheedgeoff

♬ deep in it – berlioz

….And as a way to reconnect with your loved ones

Another self-care practice is to reconnect and chismear with my loved ones is over a cup of coffee. Whether it’s at someone’s home or visiting a new Latin-owned coffee spot—the bond over this drink is special. A bonus? Whether you’re drinking coffee with your abuela or with your bestie, a cafecito moment can boost your energy and mood.

@lisa_azcona

It’s truly the little things 😭☕️ Abuelas are the angels that walk this earth. Never take your time with your grandparents for granted ❤️ #dominicanrepublic #abuelasdetiktok #elcibao #elcampo #dominicana #rd #cafe #abuelita #republicadominicana #grandparents #domrep #countryside #simpleliving #vacation #caribbean #repdom #quisqueya #campolife #abuelos #grandma

♬ Stuff We Did (from ‘Up’) – Piano Version – your movie soundtrack

How do you use coffee as a way to pour back into yourself?