Our Commitment to Integrity: Sourcing and Ceremony at ADDA YOGA Bali 

In the heart of Ubud’s lush landscapes, ADDA YOGA Bali serves as a sanctuary for those seeking more than just physical exercise. We are a space for deep transformation, spiritual alignment, and communal healing. Among our most sacred offerings is the Cacao Ceremony—a ritualized experience designed to open the heart and connect the soul. 

However, in a world where “wellness” is often commercialized, we believe that integrity is the foundation of true healing. To provide a space where you feel safe and respected, we maintain rigorous standards for how we source our medicine and how we hold our containers. 

The Sacred Science of Cacao: Beyond the Chocolate 

 While many know cacao as the base for chocolate, Ceremonial Grade Cacao is a powerful plant medicine. It contains theobromine, a natural vasodilator that increases blood flow and stimulates the cardiovascular system without the jittery “crash” of caffeine. 

At ADDA YOGA, we treat Cacao as a Teacher Plant. Our commitment to EEAT (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) starts with the physical bean and extends to the energetic frequency of our studio. 

1. Ethical Sourcing: From Seed to Sip

Trust begins at the origin. We do not use mass-produced cocoa powder or commercial chocolate. Our cacao is sourced using a “Fair Trade Plus” model, ensuring: 

• Genetic Integrity: We use Criollo beans, the ancient variety known for its high concentration of neuro-active compounds. 

• Sustainable Farming: Our beans are grown in mineral-rich volcanic soil, free from chemical pesticides and heavy metals. 

• Small-Batch Processing: The beans are fermented, sun-dried, and lightly toasted at low temperatures to preserve their live enzymes and antioxidants. 

2. The Alchemy of Preparation

The preparation of the ceremonial drink is a ritual in itself. Our facilitators oversee every step: 

• Intention Setting: The cacao is shaved and melted with focused intention. 

• Purity: We use purified spring water and natural sweeteners like Balinese palm sugar or medicinal spices (cinnamon, cayenne) to enhance the “spirit” of the brew. 

• Dosage: We provide precise ceremonial doses (42g of pure paste) to ensure a deep experience that remains physically safe for all participants. 

Holding the Container: Our Facilitation Standards 

 Experience and Expertise are what differentiate a “tasting” from a “ceremony.” At ADDA YOGA, our facilitators are trained in Trauma-Informed Space Holding. 

Creating a “Safe Container” 

When you enter a ceremony at ADDA YOGA, you are entering a protected energetic space. We ensure your safety through: 

• Physical Comfort: High-quality bolsters, natural lighting, and a temperature-controlled environment. 

• Emotional Support: Our facilitators are skilled in reading the energy of the room, providing grounding techniques if a participant feels overwhelmed. 

• Cultural Respect: We acknowledge the Mayan and Aztec roots of Cacao while honoring the local Balinese Tri Hita Karana (harmony between humans, nature, and the divine). 

“Ceremony is the bridge between the mundane and the divine. At ADDA YOGA, we ensure that bridge is built on a foundation of absolute integrity.” 

The Benefits of a Heart-Centered Practice 

Engagement with Cacao at our Bali studio offers more than just relaxation. It provides a holistic “upgrade” to your wellness routine: 

1. Emotional Release: Cacao assists in moving stagnant energy and processing suppressed emotions. 

1. Mental Clarity: The increased blood flow to the brain enhances focus and creative “flow states.” 

1. Spiritual Connection: It acts as a gentle guide for meditation, making it easier to access deeper states of consciousness. 

Why ADDA YOGA Bali is the Authority in Spiritual Wellness 

 We don’t just host events; we curate experiences backed by years of practice. Our studio is recognized in the Bali wellness community for its transparency. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or a curious traveler, our goal is to ensure you feel held, heard, and healed. 

Our Quality Control Checklist for Every Ceremony: 

• Facilitator Vetting: Only practitioners with proven experience in plant medicine and group dynamics lead our circles. 

• Hygienic Standards: Medical-grade cleanliness in our preparation kitchen. 

• Integration Support: We provide post-ceremony guidance to help you ground your experience back into daily life. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

•  What is the difference between ceremonial cacao and regular cocoa powder? Ceremonial cacao is a whole-bean paste containing the natural cacao butter, which is essential for the slow absorption of its medicinal compounds. Regular cocoa powder is highly processed, stripped of fats, and often contains additives that diminish the plant’s spiritual and physical benefits. 
• Is a cacao ceremony safe for everyone? Generally, yes. However, because cacao increases heart rate and interacts with serotonin, we recommend those on SSRIs (anti-depressants) or those with serious heart conditions consult a doctor first. We offer “homeopathic” doses for those who wish to participate gently. 
• Will I hallucinate during a cacao ceremony? No. Cacao is not a psychedelic. It is a “heart-opener” or entheogen. You remain fully conscious and in control, but you may experience heightened emotions, vivid visualization, and a deep sense of peace. 
• How should I prepare for my first ceremony at ADDA YOGA? We recommend avoiding caffeine and heavy meals for at least 3–4 hours before the ceremony. Arrive with an open mind and a specific intention or “ask” for the medicine. 
• Why choose a yoga studio in Bali for this experience? Bali’s unique “Spirit of the Island” (Taksu) enhances the energetic potency of the ceremony. At ADDA YOGA, we combine this local magic with professional, Western-standard safety and integrity. 

Ready to open your heart? 

Join us for our next Sacred Cacao Ceremony and experience the difference that integrity makes.