Forget the sound bath and the ayahuasca session

Follow an average Ibiza-goer and surely they have a blessing way ceremony and a sweat lodge (singing, praying, and meditating in a closed, hot space, which helps participants release old emotions and toxins) and the sound healing ceremonies also have a cacao ceremony on the agenda.

I saw Patty Brard sipping from a cup of cacao last night on Rooijakkers Over De Vloer and immediately dove in. These ceremonies have their origins in ancient Meso-American cultures, such as the Maya and Aztecs, who used cacao for spiritual and medicinal purposes. The main ingredient is raw cacao, the sacred plant and, according to the Maya and Aztecs, a powerful spiritual ally.
What do you actually do during such a ceremony?

During a cacao ceremony, raw cacao is prepared and consumed ceremonially. The ceremony often begins with a meditation or a prayer to set intentions. After that, you drink the cacao, often in combination with music, singing, dancing, or other spiritual exercises. Cacao is said to help open your heart (which may explain the chocolate cravings during times of heartbreak) and it could help release emotional blockages.

Cacao contains theobromine, a mild stimulant that can open the heart, and anandamide, also known as the ‘bliss molecule’, which can promote feelings of happiness and well-being. This, combined with the ceremonial setting, can evoke deep meditative and spiritual experiences. A sound healing effect may also sometimes be added to a cacao ceremony for even more depth.

Is it dangerous? Although cacao ceremonies are generally considered safe, there are some potential risks. People with heart problems should be cautious due to the stimulating effects of theobromine. And of course, consuming large amounts of raw cacao can make you nauseous or cause stomach issues. It is therefore important to follow a ceremony under the guidance of an experienced facilitator who is familiar with the dosages and effects of cacao.

Adele does it too
Various celebrities have embraced the cacao ceremony as part of their spiritual and wellness routines. For example, it is known that singer Adele and actress Shailene Woodley participate in cacao ceremonies. Both women have spoken about the positive impact of the ceremony on their emotional well-being and personal growth.