The benefits of sacred cacao in our closing ceremonies
There is always a touch of sweetness to close our Mandala Project retreats: a cacao ceremony shared at sunset. This ritual, inspired by Mesoamerican traditions, has become a cherished moment. It gathers the group in a circle, invites the heart to open, and encourages sharing what the retreat has awakened. Sacred cacao is not an ordinary chocolate drink. It is a plant medicine rich in theobromine, magnesium, and antioxidants, known to foster joy and concentration.
Quality cacao, prepared with intention
We work with producers from Guatemala and Peru who grow criollo varieties. The beans are fermented, sun‑dried, then ground into pure paste, without sugar or additives. Before each retreat, Mélanie blesses the cacao, thanks it, and places it on an altar with flowers, crystals, and oracle cards. During preparation, we melt the paste in filtered water, add spices (cinnamon, cardamom, mild chili), and agave syrup for balance. We also infuse local plants such as Ibiza rose or holy basil.
Ceremony flow
Participants sit in a circle, each with a warm cup in their hands. We explain the history of cacao, its connection to the Mayan goddess Ixchel, and the invitation to open heart space. Everyone sets an intention, aloud or inwardly, then we sip in mindfulness. The drink is thick, lightly spiced, and enveloping. While we drink, a musician plays handpan and ocean drum. The sound carries the cacao through the body.
After tasting, we offer a time of music and collective singing: mantras, medicine songs, improvisations. The cacao acts quickly: relaxed faces, spontaneous smiles, bright eyes. Some feel warmth in the chest, others mental clarity. We then invite sharing a word, a gesture, or a drawing in the Mandala journal. This speaking moment seals bonds and puts words on the transformation experienced.
The virtues of sacred cacao
Physiologically, sacred cacao stimulates blood circulation, increases serotonin and dopamine, while remaining gentle on the nervous system. It contains phenylethylamine, the “love molecule,” which creates a sense of wellbeing. Energetically, we consider it an ally of the heart chakra. It fosters empathy, helps release stagnant emotions, and encourages sincere communication.
Unlike a stimulating drink, sacred cacao does not cause nervousness. It invites a state of openness, a subtle blend of grounding and expansion. We still recommend listening to your body: half a cup may be enough for sensitive people.
Extending the practice at home
Back home, many wish to recreate this ceremony. We offer a guide to prepare cacao, create a sacred container, and choose an intention. The idea is not to reproduce it exactly, but to cultivate this moment of connection. Sometimes all it takes is a friend, a gentle playlist, a candle, and a steaming cup to find the Mandala vibration again.
If you have never experienced sacred cacao, we invite you to try it once. You may discover that behind the sweetness lies a force: community, sharing, and gratitude. At Mandala Project, this is how we say goodbye to retreats: heart full, eyes shining, cup still warm in our hands.