If you have allergies to the following substances, let me know as soon as possible:

Nuts, Turmeric, Lucuma, Ashwagandha, Cayenne Pepper, Maca, Cinnamon, Geranium essential oil and Rose Water or almonds.

Ceremonial cacao is a powerful plant medicine with various physiological effects. Please review the following considerations and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about participating:

Heart Conditions, Pregnancy, and SSRIs

• Theobromine Effects: Cacao is a vasodilator, increasing heart rate and lowering blood pressure. In ceremonial doses, it boosts blood flow to the brain and heart by 40% or more.

• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on SSRIs: A smaller dose is recommended. Indigenous Mayan women have traditionally consumed cacao safely during pregnancy, but consult your healthcare provider and consider a half-dose.

• MAOI Antidepressants: Cacao is contraindicated due to its tyramine content.

Medication Interactions

• 5-HTP: A reduced dose of cacao is advised.

• St. John’s Wort: Avoid taking it a few days before and after consuming cacao.

• Antipsychotic Medications: Cacao is contraindicated. Additionally, practices involving inner guidance or plant spirit communication may not be suitable.

Low Blood Pressure

• While cacao is a stimulant, it also lowers blood pressure. If you have a history of fits triggered by low blood pressure, consult beforehand. A smaller dose or abstention may be best. The guided journey of the ceremony itself can also lower blood pressure.

Caffeine Sensitivity

• Cacao contains about a tenth of the caffeine found in coffee, but it may still affect sleep. Some participants report better sleep and vivid dreams after a cacao ceremony.

Allergies and Sensitivities

• Theobromine Sensitivity: Cacao may trigger migraines or headaches in sensitive individuals. If this applies to you, a smaller dose might be appropriate.

• Epilepsy: High doses of cacao stimulate the brain, which may increase the risk of seizures. While evidence is inconclusive, it is safest to err on the side of caution.

Informed Decision-Making

Cacao is a nourishing and energizing plant medicine, with a rich history of safe use by indigenous cultures. However, it’s important to make an informed choice based on your unique health profile. If you’re unsure, reach out to discuss your situation and find an approach that works best for you.

Drink plenty of water the day before and the day of the ceremony.

Avoid eating directly before the event. The cacao works best on an empty stomach, so eat at least 2-3 hours before, a little fruit if you are very hungry is fine.

Preferably no coffee on the same day (avoid after midday) and try to avoid alcohol the night before to get the most out of the experience (if you do it's okay, but the experience will be more felt if avoided)

In addition to physically relaxing us, cacao works on the heart, the connection with ourselves, and with everything.

What is your intention for the meditation.

How do you want to feel?

You can bring your own yoga mat and if you have any crystals or items you want to absorb the beautiful energy of the meditation to then take home, absolutely!

Cacao acts subtly and the process can last days, if you want to bring and keep a journal for thoughts, emotions, and dreams in the following days if you’d like.

Please drink plenty of water and have a nice nourishing meal after cacao to ground you.