What Happens During a Cacao Ceremony?

"Cacao ceremony" - maybe you've heard of it, maybe you're curious. But what actually happens during such a ceremony? And why would you do this?

Cacao as Medicine

Let's start with what cacao actually is - in this case I don't mean your cappuccino or a Mars bar. We use ceremonial cacao: pure, unprocessed cacao powder made from criollo cacao beans. This is the same plant that has been used for thousands of years by Mayans and Aztecs as "medicine for the heart".

Cacao contains theobromine, a natural substance that opens your heart - both physically (better blood flow) and emotionally (you feel more). It's not a psychedelic, but rather a gentle plant medicine that helps you be more present with yourself.

Preparation: Before the Ceremony

A few days before the ceremony I ask you to:

• Eat light: Avoid heavy, fatty meals on the day itself
• No alcohol: Minimum 24 hours before the ceremony
• Set intention: Think about why you're coming - what do you want to release or discover?
• Open mind: Let go of expectations - each ceremony is different

The Ceremony Itself

Opening (15 min)

We start with an opening where we cleanse the space (often with Palo Santo or sage) and share intentions. This can be in a group or one-on-one, depending on what you've booked.

You can share your intention out loud, or keep it to yourself. There's no obligation - only invitation.

Drinking the Cacao (10 min)

Then comes the moment: the cacao itself. I serve it warm, often with a touch of cayenne pepper and honey. It tastes bitter but rich - very different from hot chocolate.

We drink slowly, with attention. Each sip is a conscious moment of receiving.

Silence and Music (60-90 min)

After drinking everyone lies or sits comfortably. I play live music - often a combination of guitar, vocals, and various instruments. The music isn't there as entertainment, but as a guide. It helps you go deeper.

What happens is different for everyone:

• Some feel intense emotions coming up - sadness, joy, anger
• Others see images or colors behind their eyelids
• Still others mainly feel warmth and love in their heart
• Some fall into deep meditation or even sleep

Everything is okay. Cacao gives you what you need in that moment.

Integration and Closing (30 min)

When the music stops, we take time to come back. There's space to share what you experienced - but only if you want to.

I often give some practical integration tips: how you can take care of yourself in the coming days and what you can do with your insights.

What Do People Feel?

From the many ceremonies I've facilitated, these are the most common experiences:

• "My heart feels open": People often literally feel warmth in their chest
• "I cried without knowing why": Cacao can release emotions you've been suppressing for a long time
• "I felt connected": With yourself, with others in the space, with something greater
• "I saw things very clearly": Patterns or problems you've been dealing with for a while suddenly become clear
• "I felt safe": Many people experience a deep safety to be completely themselves

Is This For Me?

Cacao ceremonies are suitable for almost everyone. They're gentler than psychedelic ceremonies, but can be equally profound.

You don't need to be spiritual, meditate, or have experience with this kind of work. Just come as you are.

Note: People with heart problems, high blood pressure, or taking certain medications (especially SSRIs) should consult first. Cacao is physically active and can have interactions.

After the Ceremony

The days after a ceremony you may still notice things. Maybe you dream more intensely, feel more emotional, or suddenly see solutions to old problems.

Be kind to yourself. Drink plenty of water, eat light, and take time for reflection. Write down what comes up.

Next Step

Curious? I regularly organize small ceremony groups (max 8 people) and individual sessions. Check the calendar for upcoming dates, or get in touch for a private session.

Also combine a cacao ceremony with dearmouring bodywork for an even deeper experience.