From Bean to Bliss: Why Cacao Ceremonies Are Pure Magic
During my recent trip to Bali, Indonesia, I had the opportunity to dive into a wellness practice that had been on my bucket list for a while—a cacao ceremony. This moment was particularly special because I chose to experience it in the serene setting of Solana Luxury Wellness Retreat in Ubud, a place dedicated to healing and wellness. This ceremony is all about connecting to your inner self and opening your heart—and what better place to do so than in the tranquil surroundings of Bali?
Cacao ceremonies have ancient roots, originating from the Mayan and Aztec cultures of Central and South America. It involves drinking a ceremonial dose of raw cacao, which is believed to open the heart and enhance mood. The process is usually guided by a shaman or experienced facilitator who leads the group through meditative rituals, affirmations, and heart-opening exercises.
As I entered the beautifully decorated ceremony space at Solana, I was immediately struck by the heart-shaped floral arrangement that graced the center of the room. Candles flickered gently around it, casting a soft, warm light as the sunset peeked through the windows. Our wonderful guide, Anshu, greeted us warmly and provided a brief introduction to cacao’s significance in different cultures, explaining how it has been used for centuries to bring people together, fostering emotional authenticity and deepening connections.
One common question people often ask is whether cacao causes a "high" or any mind-altering effects. Anshu clarified that while cacao can provide an energy boost and evoke feelings of euphoria, it does not induce the kind of high that drugs or alcohol might. Instead, it brings a gentle, heart-expanding sensation, encouraging mindfulness and emotional openness.
After a brief icebreaker to help the group connect, the ceremony officially began with a grounding meditation. This meditation focused on clearing any tension and centering ourselves in the present moment. We were then invited to hold our warm cacao in hand, set an intention for the ceremony, and sip it mindfully while focusing on those intentions.
The taste of the cacao was rich and smooth, with a slight bitterness reminiscent of dark chocolate. As I sipped, I felt a calming warmth spread through my body, allowing me to fully embrace the experience. Anshu guided us through a series of affirmations and meditative practices, one of which focused on gratitude, helping us reflect on the things we were most thankful for in our lives. These exercises invited us to reconnect with our inner selves and expand our hearts.
One of the most special parts of the ceremony involved turning toward a partner or fellow participant to share our thoughts and feelings in a series of guided exercises designed to foster emotional intimacy. While this experience is often shared with a partner, it was also deeply meaningful to share with others, creating a sense of community and connection. I felt a light yet energizing shift within me, which was amplified by the gentle cacao boost.
As the ceremony neared its end, we gathered in a circle to express gratitude for the experience and the connections we had made. The sense of unity and appreciation for the shared experience was palpable, and I left the ceremony with a profound sense of clarity and warmth.
Cacao ceremonies can be deeply transformative, and each experience is unique to the individual. For me, it was an opportunity to reconnect with myself, to open my heart, and to embrace the present moment. If you're looking to explore a new wellness practice, deepen your connection with yourself, or share an intimate moment with others, I highly recommend a cacao ceremony. It’s a heart-opening experience that will leave you feeling refreshed, centered, and connected to the magic of life.
Solana Wellness Retreat, Ubud Bali