What is Ceremonial Cacao

Ceremonial cacao is a type of chocolate that is consumed during spiritual or ceremonial rituals. It is made from the beans of the cacao plant and is believed to have medicinal and psychoactive properties. Many people who participate in ceremonial cacao rituals report feeling a sense of clarity, heightened senses, and a deep sense of connection to their inner selves and the world around them.

Ceremonial cacao has a long history dating back to the ancient civilizations of Central and South America. The Mayans and Aztecs considered cacao to be a sacred plant and used it in various rituals and ceremonies. Cacao was also believed to have medicinal properties and was used to treat a variety of ailments.

The modern ceremonial cacao movement can be traced back to the 1960s and 70s, when Westerners began to rediscover the spiritual and medicinal properties of cacao. In the years since, ceremonial cacao has become a popular way for people to connect with their inner selves and to find a sense of peace and clarity in their lives.

There are many different ways to participate in a ceremonial cacao ritual. Some people prefer to do it alone, while others prefer to do it in a group setting. Some people like to hold the ceremony in a quiet, meditative space, while others prefer to do it in a more social setting.

The main component of a ceremonial cacao ritual is, of course, the cacao itself. Ceremonial grade cacao is typically made from pure, raw cacao beans and is minimally processed to retain as many of the plant’s beneficial compounds as possible. It is often consumed as a hot chocolate drink, but can also be consumed in other forms such as a smoothie or even raw.

Before consuming the cacao, it is common to set an intention for the ceremony. This could be anything from finding inner peace to overcoming a personal challenge. Setting an intention helps to focus the mind and gives the ceremony a specific purpose.

During the ceremony, it is common to engage in various practices such as meditation, journaling, or even dancing. These practices can help to open the mind and allow for a deeper connection to the cacao and its effects.

After the ceremony, it is common to spend some time in reflection, journaling about any insights or revelations that may have arisen during the ceremony. Many people find that ceremonial cacao helps them to tap into their inner wisdom and gain a greater understanding of themselves and their place in the world.

Ceremonial cacao can be a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation. It can help people to connect with their inner selves and find a sense of peace and clarity in their lives. If you’re interested in trying ceremonial cacao, it is important to do your research and find a reputable source for the cacao, as well as a facilitator who is experienced in conducting ceremonial cacao rituals. With the right preparation and intention, ceremonial cacao can be a truly transformative experience.

What is the best type of Ceremonial Cacao to use?

Ceremonial cacao  is made from the raw, unprocessed beans of the cacao plant and is considered to be a sacred, nourishing substance that can connect us with our hearts and connect us to the divine.

Our personal favourite – because of it’s smoothness, divine taste and ease of preparation is Wood Fire Ceremonial Cacao – it’s also organic & ethically sourced

There are many different types of ceremonial cacao available, and the best one for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the right cacao for your ceremony:

1. Quality: Look for ceremonial cacao that is made from high-quality, sustainably-sourced beans. This will ensure that you are getting the most nutritious and flavourful cacao possible.
2. Cacao content: The higher the percentage of cacao in the product, the more pure and potent it will be. Look for products that have at least 70% cacao, as this will provide the most benefits.
3. Additives: Some ceremonial cacao products may contain additional ingredients, such as sweeteners, flavourings, or herbs. While these can be enjoyable, they can also dilute the potency of the cacao and may not be suitable for those looking for a more traditional or pure experience.
4. Origin: Different regions of the world produce cacao with unique flavour profiles and properties. For example, South American cacao tends to be more fruity and earthy, while African cacao is often more chocolatey and nutty. Consider trying cacao from different regions to find the one that resonates most with you.

Once you have chosen the best ceremonial cacao for you, the next step is to prepare it. There are many different ways to do this, but here is a simple recipe that you can follow:

1. Heat a small pot of water over low heat. You will use this water to create a double boiler to melt the cacao.
2. While the water is heating, measure out the amount of ceremonial cacao that you want to use. A good starting point is 1-2 ounces per person.
3. Break the cacao into small pieces and place it in a heat-safe bowl.
4. Once the water is hot, place the bowl with the cacao on top of the pot, making sure that the bowl does not touch the water. This will create a gentle, indirect heat that will melt the cacao without burning it.
5. As the cacao begins to melt, you can add any additional ingredients that you would like, such as honey, vanilla extract, or spices.
6. Stir the mixture occasionally to ensure that it is melting evenly.
7. Once the cacao is fully melted, remove it from the heat and pour it into cups or mugs.
8. Serve the cacao hot, allowing each person to add any additional sweeteners or milk to their liking.

Ceremonial cacao can be a beautiful and nourishing addition to any spiritual or mindfulness practice. By choosing high-quality, pure cacao and preparing it with care, you can create a rich and meaningful experience that connects you to your heart and to the divine.

Click here to see our favourite.