Start with 10oz. water and 1oz. cacao, per person. Use more water and less cacao if you prefer to have a lighter experience or are very sensitive, pregnant, or on anti-depressants. Feel free to make it to your preference or as plain as you’d like. As you are more experienced with it, you can try 1.5 oz. cacao.

Use a knife to cut the cacao block or shave off into powder. Heat the water in a pot and add the chili. Add the cacao and turn the heat on low. Do NOT boil once the cacao is added. The cacao will begin to soften and mix with the water. Add the optional sweetener and spices in small amounts. Let simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, longer is fine. Add a dash of vanilla extract and pinch of sea salt if desired before serving. You can put in a blender or vitamix to make it smooth and well mixed.

To hold a personal ceremony, create a quiet, sacred space for yourself. Incorporate meditation, breath work, yoga, singing, listening to or playing music, dancing, journaling. Allow for deep introspection, emotions to unravel and new ideas to come. Let your heart open and your creativity flow. Going for a hike or cleaning your house can also be great times to drink cacao, it is energizing and stimulating.

Drink and savor slowly. Be sure to drink water during as needed and especially afterwards to avoid headaches and nausea.

Store unused cacao in a container and be sure to keep it far away from pets, especially dogs. This type of pure cacao can be fatal to our furry friends if eaten. Cacao nibs (crushed beans) are delicious in smoothies, crumbled over granola or oats, ice cream, yogurt and much more. There are many culinary uses for cacao as well. Be creative and enjoy!