If you have a cushion, warm blanket or bolster, bring it along as these will help you get comfortable for the extended relaxation.

Cacao comes from the same South American plant as cocoa, the cacao plant. The biggest difference between cacao and cocoa is the method in which the pods on the plant have been processed. Whereas cocoa has been highly processed, cacao is less processed; a purer form of the plant and is therefore brimming with antioxidants and minerals including iron, calcium and magnesium. A genuine superfood, cacao is the reason dark chocolate is considered to be good for us, benefiting our cardiovascular health, mood and energy levels. Cacao has been used for thousands of years in the Mayan culture of South America for medicinal, spiritual and ceremonial purposes. In Mayan tradition, the word cacao is literally translated as “heart blood“, emphasizing the importance the plant possesses in their culture. Cacao increases the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain as well as inducing the release of endorphins and dopamine, our feel-good hormones. Although this is not a cacao ceremony, I enjoy drinking and sharing cacao with others and think it is a wonderful drink for stimulating our senses and connecting with ourselves and others. I invite you to try this wonderful drink. I mix it with oat milk, a few spices and a bit of hot chocolate powder for sweetness! It is vegan and gluten free. If you have any allergies or do not wish to try the cacao, that is also fine, just let me know.

You will get comfortable with blankets (I recommend a warm jumper at this point) and optional lavender eye pillows. I will play some gentle music but also bring my singing bowl and chimes around to 'bathe' you in the sound. To feel the vibrations of sound more intensely, I will offer to place to bowl on your chest so you can feel the benefits of the resonance through your body - most people find this very relaxing. I will also be offering a mini head/neck massage.