The Sacred Journey of Cacao: A Heart-Opening Experience

Discovering the Richness of Cacao

Rich, delicious, and chocolatey; full of healthy fats, antioxidants, polyphenols plus... it's a whole food!

Cacao entered my life seven years ago when I began my journey into a yogic and spiritually led existence. This plant medicine, "Cacaosito La Medicina," as the song goes, is a pure delight to prepare in ritual. It is a joy to share and drink, set intentions with, and gain access to higher wisdom.

For me, cacao is not just a nourishing and delicious drink; it is a doorway to divine consciousness through my heart centre. Known as the heart opener, cacao originates from South America. It should not be confused with cocoa, which is a more refined and processed form of chocolate where most, if not all, the healthy fats have been removed.

Cacao As Currency

Cacao has been revered for thousands of years by ancient Meso-American cultures, including the Mayans and Aztecs, who considered it a sacred plant medicine. Traditionally, it was consumed as a bitter drink during rituals and ceremonies. Cacao was used to connect with the divine, open the heart, and enhance spiritual insight. The word "cacao" comes from the Nahuatl language, and the cacao bean was so valued that it was even used as currency!

In modern ceremonial use, cacao is honoured for its ability to foster emotional release, heart connection, and presence. It is now used in conscious gatherings, healing circles, and meditation practices, where it supports inner clarity, connection with nature, and gentle transformation.

Personal Rituals with Cacao

One of my favourite activities is sitting down with my partner, sisters, or just by myself, with a warm cup of cacao and a deck of tarot or oracle cards. This practice allows me to connect to higher consciousness and pick cards. My personal favourite decks include the Medicine Woman Oracle, Spiritsong Tarot, and the Green Witch's Oracle deck. This never fails to bring up interesting insights, thoughts, or conversations about love, life, and soul purpose.

Another great way to enjoy this medicine is through the art of singing. In a group ceremony with my guitar, I sing medicine music to open divine connection and connect with others through our voices. This enables authentic expression and communication.

A Nutritional Powerhouse

Cacao is considered a whole food because it comes from the minimally processed raw cacao bean, retaining all its naturally occurring nutrients. It’s packed with magnesium, iron, calcium, and antioxidants—particularly flavonoids—which support heart health, brain function, and cellular repair. Cacao also contains healthy fats, fibre, and mood-enhancing compounds like theobromine, tryptophan, and phenylethylamine (PEA). These compounds can gently stimulate the nervous system and promote a sense of wellbeing. As a whole food, it works synergistically with the body, offering nourishment that goes beyond isolated nutrients, making it a true superfood for mind, body, and spirit.

Cacao in Modern Times

In today’s fast-paced world, many people seek ways to reconnect with themselves and nature. Cacao serves as a bridge to this connection. Its rich history and profound effects on the body and spirit make it a unique addition to any wellness routine. Whether you are looking for emotional healing or simply a delicious beverage, cacao offers a multitude of benefits.

A Gift From Nature and Me

Cacao is so much more than just a tasty treat—it’s a sacred whole food that nourishes the body, uplifts the spirit, and connects us to ancient wisdom. Whether you're drawn to its impressive nutritional profile or the heart-opening potential of ceremonial use, cacao offers a beautiful way to deepen your connection to yourself and the world around you.

To help you experience this for yourself, I’m sharing a special downloadable recipe card featuring my signature cacao blend—a nourishing drink that has taken years of refining to perfect. It’s rich, grounding, and crafted with love to offer both delicious flavour and deep nourishment. I hope it becomes a cherished part of your own ritual too, and I'd love to hear your comments and experiences!

Enjoy xx

Ceremonial Cacao Recipe.pdf

Download PDF • 283KB