Rio Kurihara: Perfectly Poised for the Perfect Wave

For Rio Kurihara, surfing isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of being. And Keith’s Cacao? It’s become an essential part of the ride.

From early mornings on the Pacific to paddling into towering sets, this passionate surfer has found a surprising ally in Keith's 100% Pure Ceremonial Cacao—one that supports not just performance, but presence, patience, and deep connection.

From the Pool to the Ocean

Rio’s journey didn’t start on a board. Born in Japan and raised across England, the U.S., and Australia, he was a competitive swimmer chasing Olympic dreams—until a serious knee injury, surgery, and burnout brought that path to an end.

At 19, navigating depression and uncertainty, Rio turned to the sea. Within three months, he was surfing 25-foot waves in Indonesia.

But while the waves were big, so were the emotional tides. His journey eventually brought him to Central America—where, in Mexico, a friend introduced him to Keith’s Cacao.

Surfing on Cacao

Though Rio had used Ceremonial Cacao before, something clicked that day. He began noticing how Keith’s Cacao helped him drop into a focused, embodied state before hitting the water. One morning, after a sunrise cup and a paddle out, he rode waves with more flow and ease than ever before.

“I felt this wave of gratitude and love,” he recalls. “That’s when I realized… that wasn’t just me. That was the Cacao, helping me connect with the ocean—and with myself.”

From that point on, Cacao became more than just a morning ritual—it became a trusted companion.

Here’s how Rio describes the impact:

• Connection & Presence
  Cacao sharpens Rio’s awareness, helping him tune into his body and the rhythm of the ocean. He moves with the swell, not against it.

• Patience & Calm
  Waiting for the right wave takes more than strength—it takes stillness. Cacao softens the edges of urgency, helping Rio stay grounded and wait for the perfect moment to drop in.

• Intuition & Trust
  In surfing, instinct is everything. Cacao deepens Rio’s trust in his own inner guidance, helping him make split-second decisions in ever-changing conditions.

• Confidence & Humility
  With Cacao, Rio finds the courage to face big waves—and the humility to respect the power they carry.

Spreading the Stoke

Rio once imagined hosting retreats in Bali. Now, he shares Cacao more organically—in breathwork circles, beachside chats, and spontaneous surf meetups. Whether it’s introducing someone to their first ceremonial cup or guiding a meditation before paddling out, he’s found joy in simply sharing what’s worked for him.

And it goes beyond the board.

Keith’s Cacao helped Rio break his coffee habit. It’s supported restful sleep on the road. And with its rich magnesium content, it’s become a steadying force in his nomadic lifestyle.

A Daily Ally

For Rio, Keith’s Cacao isn’t just a drink—it’s a doorway. A way to return to the body, ride with intention, and meet each wave—literal or metaphorical—with presence.

His journey is a powerful reminder: Whether you're paddling into a set or simply into your day, Keith’s Cacao can help you connect more deeply, trust more fully, and live a little more in flow.

You can keep up with Rio's Surfing and Cacao adventures here.