Cacao is much more than hot chocolate. When held within a clear and intentional ceremonial container, it is a powerful heart-opening plant medicine that gently expands awareness, intuition, and inner knowing. Cacao works primarily through the heart, inviting deeper presence, receptivity, and connection with Spirit.
It’s important to know that you do not need to drink cacao in order to receive its benefits. The spirit of cacao will be present and active in the field, and many people experience meaningful insight, emotional opening, and connection simply by participating in the ceremonial space and guided journey.
Cacao ceremonies often continue to work well beyond the time we are together. I strongly recommend treating the day of ceremony as spacious and unstructured. Avoid heavy scheduling or rushing afterward, and allow time for rest, reflection, journaling, and gentle integration. Much healing and insight can continue to unfold for hours after the ceremony has ended.
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"I was recently treated to a cacao ceremony with Renee. Her intentionality and presence supported me in reconnecting with myself in a very grounded way. I left feeling calm and mindful."
Suzane Berens
"My first cacao ceremony was gentle and nourishing. I felt all the good clarity of a caffeinated drink without any of the winding up urgency or stress. And it was delicious! I didn’t know what to expect but Renee kept it relatable. A highlight for me was the drumming meditation when Renee verbally queued us, then drummed us through, a journey; after, we all opened our eyes to a buck that had walked up to the window during the drumming!!! As valuable as the insights were from the morning, even more valuable was the sharing. I look forward to doing this again and again."
Julie Duryea
Please Bring to the Ceremony
- A journal
- A pen
- Water (and plan to drink plenty during and after ceremony
Hydration is especially important, as cacao is a mild diuretic and supports circulation and gentle detoxification. Increased thirst or flushing during and after ceremony is normal.
ceremony preparation
Ceremony Preparation
For optimal effects, please avoid food and caffeine for at least three hours before the ceremony.
Ideally, cacao is received on an empty stomach, which allows the medicine to be felt more clearly and gently.
Create An Alter
Before the ceremony, create a small altar in your home. This can be very simple—a single candle is enough. You may also place a cloth or scarf on a small surface and add objects of heartfelt meaning. As you do this, reflect on your intention for the ceremony and include items that symbolize or support that intention.
Common altar items include crystals, stones from meaningful land, images of sacred figures (such as Quan Yin, Jesus, Mary, or other guides you feel connected to), photographs of loved ones or ancestors, feathers, or personal jewelry you wish to imbue with ceremonial energy. Complete your altar with a candle.
Space Clearing
Before we begin, clear your space. You may light sage or incense and gently move through the room while visualizing any heavy or stagnant energy dissolving.
If you don’t use smoke, simply imagine a soft wind or wave of light clearing the space. We will also do energetic clearing together during the ceremony.
cacao preparation
Measure 1 ounce (approximately 29 grams) of ceremonial cacao (about 10 disks per ounce, depending on the source). Warm it gently with 8 ounces of water or plant-based milk per ounce of cacao in a saucepan (my favorite is a mix of unsweetened soy and almond milks).
- Do not boil, as boiling neutralizes many of cacao’s medicinal properties.
- Cow’s milk is not recommended, as dairy interferes with cacao’s assimilation.
Prepare your cacao mindfully—this is part of the ceremony. Take a few slow, deep breaths and bring yourself into gratitude and intention. Cacao is sensitive and absorbs the energy you hold while preparing it. Stir patiently until fully dissolved; a whisk can be used to create a light froth. You may sweeten with a small amount of honey or sugar if you wish.
If your cacao is ready before the ceremony begins, keep it warm on very low heat or cover your cup to retain warmth. Stir occasionally, as some sediment will naturally settle.
Self-care, safety, and contradictions
Cacao is safe for most people. By choosing to participate, you are agreeing to listen to your body and take full responsibility for your own self-care and well-being.
Cacao is a mild stimulant. While it contains very little caffeine (about one-tenth the amount of coffee), it does increase heart rate and lower blood pressure by stimulating the cardiovascular system through theobromine. Most people can comfortably experience up to a 20% increase in heart rate. However, if you have a pacemaker, significant arrhythmia, or a heart condition for which this would be unsafe, please do not ingest cacao and instead participate energetically.
Cacao is not recommended for those taking MAOI-based antidepressants. If you are taking other antidepressants, many people do fine with a full ceremonial dose, though some prefer to start smaller and drink slowly. When in doubt, please consult your physician in advance.
Avoid ingesting more than 2 ounces (58 grams) of cacao at one time. More is not better and can cause nausea or discomfort. I find that 1 ounce is sufficient for most.
Please also note that cacao is toxic to dogs, cats, horses, and birds, as they cannot metabolize theobromine. Keep cacao paste and prepared drinks safely out of reach of animals.
You can find additional information on cacao safety and contraindications by CLICKING HERE!
honoring the medicine
When working with cacao, remember that you are inviting a conscious plant ally into your body and energetic field. Drink slowly, with intention, and listen closely to your body. You may wish to offer a small portion of cacao to the earth or place it on your altar as an offering of gratitude.
After ceremony, continue to hydrate well and move gently through the remainder of the day. Quiet time, nature, journaling, and rest are especially supportive.
Waiver of Liability & Informed Consent
By choosing to participate in this cacao ceremony, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
I understand that cacao is a natural plant medicine that may affect the body, emotions, and awareness, including changes in heart rate, blood pressure, emotional release, or altered states of consciousness. I understand that participation is entirely voluntary and that I may choose to drink cacao or participate without ingesting it.
I affirm that I am solely responsible for my own physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being before, during, and after the ceremony. I confirm that I have reviewed the cacao contraindications and will consult a qualified medical professional if I have any health conditions or concerns, including heart conditions, pregnancy, or medications that may interact with cacao.
I understand that this ceremony is a spiritual and educational experience and is not a substitute for medical, psychological, or psychiatric care. No diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice is being offered.
By participating, I knowingly and voluntarily release and hold harmless Renee Stephens from any and all liability related to my participation in the ceremony, including the consumption of cacao.
By attending the ceremony, I indicate my understanding of and agreement with the above.
Thank you for your presence, your care for yourself, and your willingness to enter this space with intention. I look forward to being together in ceremony.
Renée
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Medicinal Cacao Ceremonies
What is a medicinal cacao ceremony, and how does it work?
A medicinal cacao ceremony is a sacred ritual that uses pure cacao as a powerful plant medicine to open the heart and deepen your connection to yourself and others. During the ceremony, Renée guides you through a journey of intention-setting, meditation, and mindfulness practices, helping you tap into the transformative energies of cacao. The experience is designed to promote emotional healing, clarity, and spiritual awakening.
What are the benefits of participating in a cacao ceremony?
Cacao has been used for centuries in spiritual rituals for its heart-opening properties. The ceremony can help you release emotional blockages, gain insight into your true self, and connect with deeper layers of your consciousness. Participants often report feeling more open, loving, and connected, with greater clarity and a sense of peace and purpose.
How should I prepare for a cacao ceremony?
To prepare for the ceremony, it's best to come with an open mind and heart. Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol for a few hours before the session, as they can affect your body's sensitivity to cacao. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a journal to write down any insights or emotions that arise during the experience. It’s also helpful to set a personal intention for the ceremony to guide your journey.
Is cacao safe for everyone to consume during the ceremony?
While cacao is generally safe for most people, those with certain health conditions—such as heart issues, pregnancy, or sensitivity to stimulants—should consult their healthcare provider before participating. Renée uses high-quality, ceremonial-grade cacao, which contains a natural stimulant (theobromine), so it’s important to ensure it’s right for you. Let Renée know if you have any health concerns or dietary restrictions before the ceremony.
What can I expect to feel during and after the cacao ceremony?
During the ceremony, you may experience a range of feelings, from emotional releases to heightened awareness and deep relaxation. Cacao can gently uplift your mood and help you connect with your inner self and the energies around you. After the ceremony, many participants feel a sense of calm, inner clarity, and emotional balance that can last for days, along with a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration.