Cacao ceremony is a powerful and sacred practice rooted in ancient traditions, often associated with the indigenous cultures of Mesoamerica, where cacao was regarded as a spiritual plant medicine. In contemporary settings, cacao ceremonies are becoming increasingly popular for their potential to open the heart, deepen emotional awareness, and connect individuals to their higher selves.
The raw, ceremonial cacao used in these practices is not only nutritious but also contains theobromine, an alkaloid that can enhance mood and provide gentle, sustained energy.
If you are preparing to partake in a cacao ceremony, it’s essential to approach the experience with mindfulness and respect. This means not only knowing what to do to get the most out of the ceremony but also being aware of what not to do in the lead-up. The ceremony is a sacred ritual, and the way you prepare for it can influence its outcome. Below is a guide on what to avoid before participating in a cacao ceremony.
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Things To Avoid Before Cacao Ceremony
Don’t Overeat Or Come On A Full Stomach
A common mistake people make before a cacao ceremony is eating a large or heavy meal. It’s important to come to the ceremony with a light stomach. If you consume too much food beforehand, it could interfere with the way the body processes the cacao, which may cause discomfort or a less-than-ideal experience.
The cacao is best absorbed when the body is not overloaded with food, as this allows the theobromine and other compounds to take full effect.Ideally, aim to eat a light meal about two to three hours before the ceremony. Avoid heavy, greasy, or processed foods. Instead, opt for something nutritious, such as a light salad or fruit, to ensure you’re neither too hungry nor too full during the ceremony.
Avoid Alcohol And Recreational Drugs
One of the most important things to avoid before a cacao ceremony is consuming alcohol or recreational drugs. These substances alter your state of mind and can interfere with the spiritual and emotional benefits of the ceremony. Cacao is a sacred plant medicine that opens the heart and enhances emotional clarity, so it’s essential to approach it with a clear mind and a respectful attitude.
Alcohol, in particular, is a depressant that can numb your emotional state and block the effects of the cacao. It may also alter your mood in unpredictable ways, which can detract from the intention of the ceremony. Similarly, using recreational drugs before the ceremony could cloud your judgment, prevent emotional vulnerability, and hinder your connection with the cacao energy.
It’s a good idea to give your body and mind time to naturally clear out any intoxicants before participating in the ceremony. A few days before the ceremony, refrain from using alcohol or drugs to ensure that your experience is authentic and grounded.
Don’t Drink Caffeine Or Over-Stimulate Yourself
While cacao itself contains a mild stimulant, drinking caffeinated beverages like coffee, energy drinks, or highly caffeinated teas before a ceremony can overstimulate your nervous system and alter your ability to connect deeply with the cacao energy. This can cause restlessness, anxiety, or an inability to fully relax during the ceremony.
If you are used to consuming caffeine daily, consider reducing your intake in the days leading up to the ceremony. Caffeine is a strong stimulant that can disrupt the calm, meditative state you may wish to enter during the ceremony. Drinking herbal teas or water is a great alternative and will help you stay hydrated while also calming your system.
Don’t Have High Expectations Or Set Rigid Intentions
Cacao ceremonies are deeply personal, and each person’s experience is unique. Some individuals may experience profound emotional breakthroughs, while others may feel more subtle shifts. It’s important to approach the ceremony with an open heart and mind rather than with rigid expectations about what should happen.Avoid placing pressure on yourself to have a “transformational” experience.
While it is certainly possible to have powerful insights, these experiences often come in unexpected forms and may not be what you initially imagined. Instead of focusing solely on specific outcomes, try to stay open to whatever the cacao has to offer, trusting that the process will unfold naturally.
Additionally, avoid setting overly rigid or controlling intentions. While it’s helpful to have a general sense of what you want to explore or release during the ceremony, it’s equally important to surrender to the process. Trust that the cacao will guide you in the way that’s most beneficial for your growth and healing.
Don’t Come With Negative Or Closed-Off Energy
Cacao is a heart-opening medicine, and in order to fully experience its potential, you must be willing to approach it with an open and positive mindset. Avoid entering the ceremony with a closed-off or negative attitude, as this can block the benefits of the cacao. If you are feeling resistant, cynical, or emotionally closed off, it can be helpful to do some emotional preparation work before the ceremony, such as journaling, meditating, or reflecting on what might be causing resistance.
Having a positive, open-minded attitude does not mean pretending to be happy or cheerful if you’re not. Rather, it’s about being willing to embrace whatever emotions arise and allowing yourself to be vulnerable. If you’re struggling with difficult emotions or personal challenges, that’s okay—just try to enter the ceremony with a willingness to be present with yourself, no matter what emotions may come up.
Avoid Digital Distractions
In a world where we are constantly surrounded by technology and digital distractions, it’s important to disconnect from your phone, computer, and any other electronic devices during a cacao ceremony. These distractions can pull you out of the present moment and prevent you from fully engaging in the ceremony.
Before the ceremony begins, turn off your phone or put it on aeroplane mode. Let others know that you’ll be unavailable during the ceremony and that you’ll respond to messages once it has concluded. Being present with the group, the cacao, and your own inner experience is key to a meaningful and transformative ceremony.
Don’t Rush The Ceremony
A cacao ceremony is not a rushed event. It is a sacred and deliberate practice that takes time. If you have a busy schedule or are feeling rushed, it may not be the best time to attend a cacao ceremony. Trying to rush through the ceremony or expecting it to be quick can hinder your ability to connect deeply with the experience.
Cacao ceremonies often involve intentional pauses, guided meditations, music, and shared moments of reflection. These elements are integral to the process, and rushing through them can cause you to miss important moments of connection and self-discovery. Allow yourself the time to be present and fully immersed in the experience.
Don’t Participate If You Have Heart Issues Without Consulting A Doctor
While cacao is generally considered safe for most people, it’s important to note that it contains theobromine, a stimulant similar to caffeine, which can affect the cardiovascular system. If you have any heart conditions or are concerned about how the theobromine might interact with your body, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before participating in a cacao ceremony.
The effects of cacao can include a gentle elevation in heart rate and a heightened sense of alertness. While this is generally mild and beneficial for most people, it’s important to ensure that it won’t exacerbate any existing medical conditions. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s also wise to seek professional advice before consuming ceremonial cacao.
Avoid Excessive Planning Or Overthinking
The beauty of a cacao ceremony lies in its simplicity and presence. Avoid overthinking the event and trying to control every aspect of it. This may include overly planning your intention, thinking about how to act, or worrying about how others in the ceremony are behaving.
Instead, allow yourself to simply be in the moment. Trust that everything you need will come to you through the process. Cacao ceremonies are deeply spiritual, and sometimes, the most profound insights come when we stop trying to force or predict an outcome. Let go of the need to over-plan and just trust the flow of the ceremony.
Don’t Ignore Self-Care Before The Ceremony
Cacao ceremonies can be emotionally intense, and it’s important to take care of your emotional and physical health leading up to the event. If you are feeling emotionally drained, stressed, or overwhelmed, it’s important to engage in self-care practices before the ceremony.
This might include getting enough rest, practising grounding exercises, or spending time in nature.If you’ve been going through a particularly tough time emotionally or mentally, make sure to take the time to care for yourself in the days before the ceremony. This will help you feel more centred and present during the experience, allowing you to fully embrace the heart-opening benefits of cacao.
Conclusion
Preparing for a cacao ceremony involves both practical considerations and emotional mindfulness. By avoiding distractions, maintaining a light stomach, and approaching the ceremony with an open and positive mindset, you’ll create the best environment for deep spiritual growth and transformation.
Respect the sacredness of the cacao, and be open to whatever experience unfolds, trusting in the process. By doing so, you allow yourself to truly benefit from the powerful, heart-opening effects of the cacao and the ceremony.
Frequently Ask Question
Should I Take Any Medications Before The Ceremony?
If you’re on medication, especially stimulants, antidepressants, or mood stabilisers, it’s essential to check with a healthcare professional before participating in a cacao ceremony. Cacao can interact with certain medications, so you want to ensure it’s safe for you. Always consult a medical provider if you’re unsure.
Can I Attend A Cacao Ceremony If I’m Feeling Physically Unwell?
It’s best to avoid attending a cacao ceremony if you’re feeling sick or under the weather. Your body may not be in a good state to receive the full benefits of cacao, and it could disrupt the ceremony for both you and the group. If you’re feeling unwell, it’s kinder to yourself to rest and heal before attending a ceremony.
Is It Okay To Go Into A Cacao Ceremony With An Agenda Or Expectations?
It’s recommended not to enter the ceremony with rigid expectations. Cacao ceremonies are meant to be fluid and allow for personal experiences to unfold naturally. Going in with a specific agenda can limit your experience, so it’s better to remain open to whatever may arise and trust the process.
