Cacao + the Heart Chakra
What's Ceremonial Cacao?
Ceremonial cacao is a special kind of cacao that is used in various rituals and healing practices. Unlike the chocolate bars you might eat, which often have a lot of sugar and other ingredients, ceremonial cacao is pure and minimally processed. It has been used by different cultures for a long time in ceremonies to promote connection, healing, and self-discovery.
Benefits of Cacao
Cacao is a superfood packed with many health benefits, and it’s not just delicious—it's also a little magical!
Physical Benefits: Cacao is full of antioxidants. It can help keep your heart healthy by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow. Plus, it contains important minerals like magnesium, iron, and calcium that our bodies need to function well.
Happy Chemicals: Eating cacao is like sending your brain on a mini-vacation! It releases feel-good hormones such as endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, giving you that warm, fuzzy feeling. Just a little taste can help melt away stress and leave you with a smile.
Cacao and the Heart Chakra
Chakras are energy centers in our bodies that govern to different physical, emotional, and spiritual parts of our lives. The heart chakra, or Anahata, is located in the center of the chest. It plays a big role in our ability to love, connect with others, and feel joy and compassion.
Cacao works wonderfully with the heart chakra because it helps open and balance this energy center. One of the amazing compounds found in cacao is theobromine. This natural stimulant not only helps improve blood circulation but also gives us newfound clarify and focus, perfect for cultivating intentions.
Cacao encourages us to let go of emotional blockages, such as past hurts or traumas. When we enjoy cacao, we can enhance our feelings of love, joy, and inner peace, helping us connect more deeply with ourselves and others.
What's a Cacao Ceremony?
A cacao ceremony is a special gathering where people come together to drink ceremonial cacao with intention. The ceremony usually involves guided meditation, breathwork, and setting personal intentions, all in a supportive and loving environment. This creates a space for participants to explore their emotions and connect with their hearts. Many people find this experience to be very personal and transformative, leading to important insights and healing.
How to Make Ceremonial Cacao
Making ceremonial cacao is simple and rewarding! Here’s a basic recipe to help you prepare a delicious cup that can open your heart and enhance your spiritual experience. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbal tea blends for an extra boost!
Ingredients
2 ounces of ceremonial cacao paste (or 2 tablespoons of powder)
1/2 cup of water or your favorite herbal tea (see options below)
1/2 cup of non-dairy milk (I like unsweetened oat milk)
1-2 teaspoons of sweetener (like stevia, maple syrup, or agave syrup)
A pinch of sea salt (optional, to enhance flavor)
Directions
Heat Your Liquid: In a small saucepan, heat the water or herbal tea until it’s just below boiling.
Mix the Cacao: In a separate bowl, combine the cacao paste or powder with the sweetener and a small amount of your heated liquid. Stir until you form a smooth paste, making sure there are no lumps.
Combine: Gradually whisk in the rest of the heated liquid, stirring continuously to combine. If you like, you can use a frother for a creamy texture!
Add Flavor: If desired, add a pinch of sea salt, cinnamon, or whatever you want.
Serve and Enjoy: Pour the ceremonial cacao into your favorite mug, and take a moment to set an intention or express gratitude. Sip slowly, allowing yourself to savor the rich, warm flavors.
Customizing Your Cacao Experience
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices that resonate with your personal journey. You can create a unique blend that enhances your meditation, relaxation, or connection to your heart chakra. Whether you choose water or herbal tea, this ceremonial cacao recipe will guide you on a delicious path to inner peace and love. Enjoy!
These are the herbs I usually use! (1/2-1 teaspoon of each and steep for 8 mins)
Rose: To open the heart and enhance feelings of love.
Ashwagandha: For grounding and stress relief.
Blue Lotus: To promote relaxation and spiritual insights.
Lavender: For calming and soothing energy.
where to buy Ceremonial Cacao?
I normally buy mine while travelling in central america, but there’s plenty of places to source it locally and online! If you’re excited to make your own ceremonial cacao at home, here are some great places to find high-quality ingredients:
Local Health Food Stores
Many local health food stores carry ceremonial cacao powder or paste. Look for organic and ethically sourced brands. You can also check the bulk section for cacao nibs or powder.
Farmers Markets and Artisan Shops
Check your local farmers markets or artisan shops for vendors selling ceremonial cacao. These places often have high-quality, locally sourced options, and you can ask the sellers about their sourcing practices.
Online Retailers
Cacao Lab: This online shop offers ethically sourced ceremonial cacao sourced directly from farmers. They provide detailed information about their products, including origins and preparation methods. Use Code: HEALTHGOTHYOGA for 10% off! Grab your product HERE
Amazon: A wide variety of ceremonial cacao products are available, including brands like Sunfood and Navitas Organics. Be sure to read reviews to find the best quality.
JOIN ME VIRTUALLY
FOR A CACAO + HEART CHAKRA WORKSHOP!
📅 Sunday, October 20th at 2pm EST
Open your heart and access deep healing through a cacao ceremony. We’ll begin with breathwork and guided meditation, then move through a gentle yoga flow focused on the Heart Chakra. Cacao, a plant medicine, helps unlock your heart space, release energetic blockages, and align you with love, joy, and connection.