BIG NEWS!
Kava has been featured in Moana 2 coming out on Nomember! This is a big deal for the kava community- as it’s the first time this ancient beverage has been featured in any popular movie.
Why Moana is important?
If you haven’t seen Moana, it’s the Disney Pixar story about a Pacific Island princess who loves the ocean but is forbidden to go beyond the reef by her father, the chief. When environmental decay threatens the crops on her island, the ocean chooses her to restore a mystical heart to the goddess Te Fiti and revive her homeland. Traveling with the shape-shifting demigod Maui, Moana starts a daring journey across the Pacific Ocean, overcoming challenges that teach her the true meaning of leadership and courage. The story reaches its peak when Moana restores the heart of Te Fiti, healing her island and empowering her to guide her people in rediscovering their seafaring heritage.
Not only is it a story of courage, adventure, and following your heart, but it is also one of the first to share Pacific Island culture with the rest of the world. We are introduced to their language, traditional dress, tribal structure, and how they live in harmony with the land. These things align with kava culture and how the communities that traditionally grow and harvest kava live. While things have evolved slightly over time, the traditions of how they grow and use kava can still be seen today.
Because it’s such a popular movie, Moana 2 is a great platform for bringing awareness to it and educating the Western World more about what it is.
Kava’s culture and tradition
Having kava featured in Moana 2 not only highlights its importance in Pacific island culture, where it has been drunk for over 3000 years, but it also gets people wondering, “What is Moana drinking?” which starts bringing more attention to it here in North America.
The more exposure kava gets, the more people will start exploring its benefits and learning about its traditions and culture. As the movie represents, the Pacific Islands highly value community, and kava is usually at the center of it. It’s used in both religious and traditional ceremonies, as well as for community functions to honor important guests visiting the island and to bring the community together.
What Islanders drink kava for
It’s known for its relaxing and clarifying effects, which can boost feelings of socialization and reduce stress and anxiety. In fact, research into the health benefits of kava has shown that it can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Some studies even suggest it may be more effective than conventional anti-anxiety medications.
Some people have even started using it as an alcohol alternative. The effects are very similar- it helps you relax, feel more social, and connect with others without the negative effects like hangover and the emotional roller coaster. Island cultures drink it after work with colleagues and friends like many Americans go out for beers and cocktails.
So go check out the Moana 2! And when you see Moana drinking kava, now you know a little bit more about what it is and why it’s important.
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