Cacao ceremonies: Culture, hype or something more?
Cacao ceremonies have become a global phenomenon in recent years. They are held in yoga studios, spiritual circles, and wellness retreats, promising not only enjoyment but also a profound connection to body, mind, and soul. But how much truth is there behind the modern hype? And what role does tradition play? A look into the history, culture, and science of cacao – and on the special cacao from Santa Maria de Cahabón.
Cocoa in the Culture of the Maya: Ceremony or Everyday Life?
Cocoa has its origins in Mesoamerica, where it has been cultivated and consumed by the Maya and Aztecs for over 3,000 years. It was revered as the "food of the gods" – a phrase that is also reflected in the scientific name of the cocoa tree, Theobroma cacao.
But were there pure cacao ceremonies among the Maya? Scientific evidence suggests that cacao played an important role in ritual occasions, but rarely stood alone at the centre. It was often used as an offering during weddings, funerals, or spiritual rituals. The consumption of cacao was closely linked with other ceremonies such as dance, music, and prayers. The "drink of the gods" was served in precious vessels and often combined with other ingredients like chilli, vanilla, or maize.
Pure cacao ceremonies, as we know them today, seem to have no historical basis in ancient cultures. Rather, the concept is a modern phenomenon that has developed from various spiritual traditions.
The Rediscovery of Cocoa: Who Shaped the Modern Ceremony?
The modern form of the cacao ceremony can be traced back to the 1990s, when Western travellers in Central America began to engage more deeply with the spiritual practices of indigenous peoples. A key figure in this process was Keith Wilson, known as "The Chocolate Shaman." He lived in Guatemala and started to promote the consumption of cacao as a spiritual practice. Wilson was convinced that cacao is a heart opener that helps people connect with themselves and others.
This modern interpretation is less based on an authentic indigenous practice and more on a combination of ancient knowledge and contemporary, often esoteric approaches. Nevertheless, the idea quickly gained popularity – particularly through its connection with yoga, meditation, and the New Age movement. Cacao became a gentle alternative to consciousness-expanding substances such as Ayahuasca or San Pedro.
Why the hype? The spread of cacao ceremonies
The global spread of cacao ceremonies can be explained by several factors:
- Access to Knowledge and Tradition: Through travel and social media, knowledge about indigenous practices became more accessible. Cacao ceremonies offered a way to connect with these traditions without delving into deeper cultural contexts.
- Health benefits: Raw cacao is celebrated as a "superfood." It contains theobromine, a gently stimulating alkaloid, as well as magnesium, antioxidants, and anandamide, the so-called "happiness molecule." Scientific studies show that cacao can elevate mood and support the cardiovascular system.
- community spirit: In an increasingly individualised world, ceremonies offer a communal experience that many people miss.
- Spirituality and Mindfulness: Cacao ceremonies combine enjoyment with meditation and inner reflection, making them particularly attractive to people seeking a gentle introduction to spiritual practices..
The connection to Santa Maria de Cahabón
The cocoa we produce in Santa Maria de Cahabón is a reflection of the original purity and strength of cocoa. Here, in the heart of Guatemala, the cocoa trees thrive in a biodynamic cycle that respects the traditions of the region. Our local partners – the indigenous Q’eqchi’ communities – maintain the knowledge of cocoa cultivation and processing that has been passed down through generations.
Every step, from the harvesting of the cocoa fruits to fermentation and drying, is carried out by hand. The result is cocoa of exceptional quality, rich in flavours and ingredients. Through the conscious consumption of this cocoa in a ceremony, a bridge is built between ancient traditions and modern spirituality.
Culture or hype – or is it something more?
Cacao ceremonies are neither a purely cultural practice nor just a hype. They are a hybrid phenomenon that combines elements of indigenous tradition, modern spirituality, and scientific insights. While it is important to respect the origins and cultural context of cacao, the spread of the ceremonies shows that they strike a universal chord: the desire for connection – with nature, with other people, and with ourselves.
The cocoa from Santa Maria de Cahabón plays a central role in this. It not only embodies the essence of this connection but also allows it to be experienced in an authentic, sustainable, and meaningful way. In a world that is increasingly characterised by alienation, this could be exactly the "more" that many are searching for.
How are cacao ceremonies conducted today? – My personal description
A cocoa ceremony is for me more than just a shared ritual – it is a moment of connection with myself and the people around me. In the ceremonies I have participated in, everything followed a flowing process, without strictly defined rules. The cocoa is at the centre, not just as a drink, but as a medium to pause and consciously engage with the here and now.
The space and the preparation
As soon as I enter the room, I feel how important the preparation is. The place is carefully designed, whether outside in nature – surrounded by trees or with a view of the stars – or in a cosy room full of candlelight. Flowers, incense, and small symbolic objects create an atmosphere that immediately brings me to a state of calm.
We are sitting in a circle, which feels like an invitation from the very beginning: Here, everyone is equal, here, everyone is welcome.
The Opening
The beginning of a cacao ceremony is for me a gentle transition from everyday life into another world. Often, the space is cleansed with incense, and there is a moment of silence or a few words that invite me to let go of my thoughts. Sometimes the host calls upon the cardinal directions or expresses gratitude to nature – words that have a simple effect and touch me time and again.
Setting an intention is a special moment. I take the time to listen within: What do I want to take away from this ceremony? Sometimes it is clarity, sometimes just the feeling of being fully present.
The cocoa
When the cocoa is served, it feels like a gift. It is not an ordinary drink, but one that has been prepared with intention and gratitude. The cup in my hands is warm, and the aroma of cocoa, perhaps with a hint of cinnamon or chilli, fills the room.
Before I take the first sip, I pause for a moment. Sometimes there is an invitation to say "thank you" to the cocoa internally – for me, a simple but beautiful gesture. The first sip is always an experience: the taste earthy, pure, almost powerful. I feel the warmth rising within me.
While we drink the cocoa, there is often silence or soft music. It is a moment that takes me inward – a feeling as if the cocoa opens my heart and allows me to be gentler with myself.
Common Elements
After the cocoa, there is always a shared part that reminds me how valuable genuine encounters are. Each ceremony is different, but some elements are repeated:
- Music and singing: There is something magical about singing together. The sounds of the drums, the plucking of a guitar, or simple rattles create an atmosphere in which I feel uplifted.
- Movement: Sometimes there is room for dance. I remember moments when I simply closed my eyes and moved freely to the music – without thinking, just feeling.
- Meditation: There are often guided meditations or visualisations that take me deeper into the moment. These phases help me to block out everything around me and focus on what is essential.
- exchange: When we share our experiences, I feel connected to the other participants. Everyone brings something different, and yet a sense of community emerges.
The conclusion
At the end of the ceremony, there is always a conscious conclusion. Whether through a collective thank you, a brief reflection, or simply a smile – I feel that the circle is being closed. It is a moment in which I allow the experiences to resonate within me and absorb them before I return to everyday life.
Often something is still with you
After each cacao ceremony, I take away something that is hard to put into words. It is not a drastic change, but a gentle feeling of grounding, connection, and inner peace. The cacao, the community, and the mindful time have stirred something within me, and I carry that as a gift into my everyday life.
Conclusion
For me, a cacao ceremony is a personal way to pause and reconnect with what truly matters – whether through the taste of the cacao, the community, or the quiet moments in between. It is an experience that cannot be categorised by rules or structures, but is touched by its simplicity and authenticity.
