The Spirit of Cacao reminds us to connect more deeply with our hearts. She offers space to quiet the mind and to listen for the gentle song of the soul.

While there are many great cacao brands, most are not found in the neighborhood grocery store. Read labels carefully. Marketing companies are now using the term "cacao" simply for advertising. True Cacao is not processed and does not have added sugars. 

We recommend cacao paste, discs, or blocks as opposed to cacao powder for a more decadent cup of cacao.

Each of these are unique and remarkable in their own right, so use your intuition! 

Temple Goddess Cacao  (most often used in our retreats) 

Ceremonial grade cacao. Creamier than most brands, which participants enjoy. It offers gentle heart opening energy. They also offer a wonderful cacao tea. 

https://www.goddesstemplecacao.com/

Keith's Cacao (The Chocolate Shaman) 

Strong ceremonial cacao. This bar has a deep "earthy" flavor. The bars are large and will keep well in a sealed container. 

https://www.keithscacao.com/

The Chocolate Lab 

Offers The 4 Elements Cacao Bars - one of Gina's favorites for personal use. The packaging is outstanding - they include meditation ideas for the element represented in the bar.

https://www.cacaolaboratory.com/

Ora (formally Firefly)

Probably the most well-known cacao in the US. Offered in disc form which makes it easy to count for personal use. They offer a great sample pack including ones with rose and medicinal mushroom.

https://ceremonial-cacao.com/

Embue Cacao

 Packed in convenient bars. Uplifting energy. This one is delightful brewed with honey and rose water/tea.

https://www.embuecacao.com/

1. Heat water to warm (but not boiling as this will destroy some of the health benefits.)

2. Add approximately 1 oz to 1.5 oz for ceremonial dose of cacao. MORE IS NOT BETTER HERE. Start slowly and listen to your body each day. 

3. Place in blender with 6-8 oz of water and blend for 20 seconds (alternatively you can use hand frother or heat water on stove while stirring with whisk.)

4. Addition Ideas: dash of cayenne, cardamom, maca powder, cinnamon, rose water (from tea), dash of salt, pure maple syrup, honey, almond or coconut milk (dairy milk is not recommended with cacao.)

5. Serve in a special cup reserved for cacao. We prefer a 6 oz circular mug with no handle but find your perfect cup! 

Ceremonial cacao is about INTENTION. 

If gulped down or on a full stomach, the effect will not be the same. 

Set your space and be present with the cacao. 

Light candles, play special music, set out what speaks to you. Have a notebook and pen handy to jot down thoughts and notes. 

Cacao pairs well with yoga, meditation, journaling, automatic writing, painting, creative projects.  

We find cacao ceremony is best 1-2x per week to maintain balance in the body. Some people may use smaller doses daily, but listen to your body's needs. 

Due to theobromine in cacao, most prefer to use it earlier in the day when they have time to be present. 

It can disrupt sleep if taken in the evening although some use it for dreamwork. Plan accordingly! 

KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE AWAY FROM PETS

This depends on mood and personal preference but here are some of our favorites. These can be found on Spotify or Amazon Music. 

A Beautiful Chorus -  Wheels of Light

Mose - Elements 

Deuter- Koyasan: Reiki Sound Healing 

As with any supplement, please talk with your physician or naturopath about the use of cacao. 

Cacao is NOT recommended for the following:

Those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have low blood pressure. 

  MAOI based anti-depressants are contraindicated with the tyramine in chocolate.

Additionally, cacao is high in Oxalates for those who suffer from gout or  kidney stones.