Get a bat, get a piñata, and whack away! It doesn’t have to be a birthday or other occasion to treat yourself to a cathartic piñata—or try making your own.

The name piñata is actually a variation of the Italian pignatta, and it was brought to Mesoamerica by the Spanish conquistadors.

When they arrived in Mexico, they actually underwent an interesting transformation, becoming deeply entrenched with religious significance.

The traditional piñata (rather than those used for parties and such) is actually a sphere with seven points issuing from it, one for each of the seven deadly sins.

The attack of the piñata is actually meant to demonstrate the battle of the soul against temptation and evil, with the contents being the rewards of the ever after.

Surprisingly deep for a papier-mâché ball of treats and prized, isn’t it?