Matters of the Heart … Did you know chocolate is a superfood?
February 24, 2025
With Valentine’s day just passing, it had me thinking of matters of the heart. A day dedicated solely to love, we see flowers sent and shared, cards and traditionally accompanied with a beautiful blend of chocolates. The food of and for the heart.
However, not all chocolate is created equal! There is a huge difference between something like ceremonial-grade cacao and commercial chocolate, like Hershey’s. Ceremonial or even organic cacao is pure, minimally processed, and retains its full spectrum of nutrients and medicinal properties. It’s made from high-quality, organic cacao beans without additives, ensuring maximum benefits for the heart and mind.
In contrast, commercial chocolate—such as Hershey’s—is heavily processed, often contains dairy, refined sugar, and artificial ingredients, and lacks the rich flavonoids and theobromine that make cacao so powerful. While Hershey’s may satisfy a sweet craving, it doesn’t offer the same heart-healthy or mood-enhancing benefits as true ceremonial cacao.
The Heart-Opening Benefits of Ceremonial Cacao
Ceremonial cacao has been revered for centuries by indigenous cultures for its heart-opening and healing properties. As mentioned, unlike commercial chocolate, ceremonial cacao is a minimally processed, pure form of cacao that retains its rich nutritional benefits and energetic potency. It’s often used in sacred rituals, meditation, and holistic healing practices to support emotional and physical well-being. One of the most profound benefits of ceremonial cacao is its ability to nourish the heart—both physically and spiritually.
Rich in Heart-Healthy Antioxidants
Cacao is one of the richest sources of flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants that protect the cardiovascular system. These compounds help reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and lower oxidative stress, all of which contribute to heart health. Studies show that regular consumption of cacao can help lower the risk of heart disease by reducing LDL (bad cholesterol) while increasing HDL (good cholesterol). The high levels of polyphenols in cacao also help prevent blood clotting and support healthy circulation.
Enhancing Circulation and Blood Flow
Ceremonial cacao contains theobromine, a natural compound that acts as a vasodilator, meaning it relaxes and widens blood vessels. This leads to improved circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients more efficiently throughout the body. Better circulation reduces the risk of high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes. Unlike caffeine, which can cause jitters and stress on the heart, theobromine provides gentle, sustained energy without the crash, making cacao an excellent alternative for those looking to enhance energy naturally.
Supporting Emotional Well-Being and Reducing Stress
The heart and mind are deeply connected, and stress is one of the leading factors in heart disease. Ceremonial cacao is a natural mood booster, increasing the production of serotonin, dopamine, and anandamide—also known as the “bliss molecule.” These neurotransmitters promote feelings of happiness, relaxation, and emotional balance. Drinking cacao in a mindful, ceremonial way can help reduce anxiety and stress, which in turn benefits heart health by lowering cortisol levels and promoting overall calmness.
A Natural Source of Magnesium for Heart Function
Magnesium is essential for maintaining a healthy heart rhythm, reducing muscle tension, and preventing high blood pressure. Many people are deficient in magnesium, leading to increased risks of cardiovascular disease. Ceremonial cacao is a rich, natural source of this essential mineral, helping to relax the heart muscle, support nerve function, and balance electrolytes in the body.
Encouraging Heart-Centered Awareness
Beyond its physical benefits, cacao is known as a “heart medicine” in many ancient traditions. Drinking cacao in ceremony encourages deep introspection, emotional healing, and connection to one’s inner self. Many people experience profound moments of clarity, love, and gratitude when consuming cacao with intention. This heart-opening effect can improve relationships, increase self-love, and create a greater sense of compassion and connection with others.
How to Incorporate Ceremonial Cacao into Your Routine
To fully experience the benefits of ceremonial cacao, it’s best to consume it mindfully. Mix pure, high-quality cacao paste with warm water or plant-based milk, and add a natural sweetener or spices like cinnamon or cayenne. Drinking it in the morning or before meditation can provide energy, clarity, and emotional balance throughout the day.
By integrating ceremonial cacao into your wellness routine, you can nourish your heart on all levels—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—leading to greater vitality and well-being.
Cacao Ritual
Today, cacao rituals are becoming more popular as a way to connect with the heart, set intentions, and cultivate mindfulness. Many gatherings include guided meditation, breathwork, movement, and journaling to deepen self-awareness and emotional healing. Whether in a group ceremony or a personal practice, cacao rituals offer a powerful way to nourish the mind, body, and spirit.
If you’re curious about finding a cacao community or wondering where to source the highest-quality ceremonial cacao, connect with me! I can help you find a cacao group near you or guide you to the best cacao for your personal journey.
