We, as human beings, are inherently curious. Curious about the world around us, about how our bodies and minds function, about others, and about ourselves. As I travel the world and engage in conversations with folks who are also navigating this shared human experience, one theme continues to surface: a collective curiosity around how we can enhance our experiences of joy and cultivate deeper feelings of wellbeing.
Throughout history, humans have formed complex relationships with substances and practices designed to relax, stimulate, or alter our perception and consciousness. From alcohol and recreational drugs to meditation and plant medicines, we are on a continual quest for connection, celebration, and that elusive dopamine hit.
This curiosity led me to explore a question that feels increasingly relevant: how can we connect, celebrate, and party without the familiar entourage of next-day guilt, headaches, and serotonin crashes?
What if partying could be sustainable? Imagine heading out feeling clear, confident, and energised - and waking the next day with a gentle hum of joy and vitality still resonating through you. Feeling refreshed, grounded, and ready to meet the day.
So what are we truly seeking when we reach for that drink after a long day, or before heading out for the evening? And why does the first drink always hit differently?
In the short term, alcohol triggers the release of dopamine in the brain, activating our reward system and making us feel relaxed, motivated, and more socially open. However, alcohol also depresses the central nervous system. This is why speech begins to slur, reactions slow, and judgement becomes impaired. As the dopamine spike fades, we’re often left with irritability, low mood, and heightened anxiety. The longer repercussions of alcohol take a more profound effect on the body, but we won’t explore that now.
Why cacao is uplifting
We often associate cacao with meditative moments - slowing down, turning inward, and tuning in. Rich in magnesium, cacao helps the body release tension, unwind, and relax, creating a grounding ally after a stressful day or as a supportive ritual before an event or gathering.
But cacao doesn’t only meet us in stillness. This plant also meets us in expansion, joy, and celebration.
There is a playful, energising side to this powerful plant - one that weaves connection, confidence, and community. Cacao gently supports the release of dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin, guiding us into social spaces with openness and authenticity, while amplifying joy and presence.
Theobroma: Food of the Gods
Theobroma - meaning “food of the gods” - is an apt name for this sacred plant. Cacao offers a tonic for conscious connection, gathering, celebration, and even partying. It provides a holistic high: one that supports us both on the way up and on the way down.
Rather than taking us out of ourselves, cacao invites presence and clarity. It elevates our experiences while keeping us anchored in our authentic self.
We have seen this at ecstatic dances, where cacao is consumed with the intention to move, celebrate, and connect. That same energy can be consciously invited and unfold in evenings out, parties, and social gatherings when we choose to engage with cacao mindfully and communally. Cacao’s heart opening energy is amplified when shared, as the spirit of the plant flows into the spaces she is invited into, think of her as your favourite plus one.
Cacao contains Phenylethylamine (the “love molecule”), which has a similar effect as an amphetamine, stimulating cells in the brain to release Dopamine and Endorphins, this can give us feelings of euphoria and feeling ‘high’.
The flavanols and polyphenols found in cacao improve blood flow and cognitive function, helping us stay mentally sharp, socially engaged, and energetically present. They also protect our cells from damage, reduce oxidative stress, and support heart health - offering sustained energy for dancing, socialising, and celebrating.
In other words, you’re nourishing your body and brain with antioxidants, minerals, and bliss-inducing compounds - love, joy, and happy molecules - all while enjoying a conscious night out.
Can I get a hangover from drinking cacao?
Because cacao contains theobromine rather than caffeine or alcohol, there’s no harsh crash.
We can wake feeling heart-centred and clear-minded, with anandamide motivating us to engage, focus, and move through the day with equanimity.
Cacao offers an alternative way to engage socially and invites us to redefine what a “good night out” really means. It shows us that we can elevate our experiences while simultaneously nourishing our bodies - and remain curious about how to cultivate longevity in joy and wellbeing.
My experience of partying on ceremonial cacao
We were heading to a DJ set - think experimental techno. About an hour before we left, I drank a ceremonial dose (40g) of cacao, taking ten minutes to connect with the plant of cacao, setting an intention for the night ahead - to be present and remain curious.
Soon after, I felt a gentle lift and a warm, open sensation in my body. When we arrived at the venue, I felt present, socially engaged, and confident.
Once the set began, I ate a ceremonial cacao chocolate (recipe coming soon!). I danced for four hours straight, sipping water and feeling energised and deeply connected to the moment. The lights and atmosphere felt electric and the music felt euphoric.
The next morning, I woke up feeling refreshed and grounded - still connected to the night before, remembering the music, the movement, and the meaningful connections made.
Switching out cocktails for cacao is something I’m welcoming into this year: choosing to celebrate in a way that feels aligned with my body, my values, and my authentic self - with cacao as my plant ally.
As always, we invite you to sip cacao with intention. Take a moment of reverence for the lands, cultures, and people who have grown, cultivated, and shared this extraordinary plant with the world.
Disclaimer: Cacao can open us up and may bring big feelings to the surface. Always drink with awareness, honoring your body and mind. Cacao is an ancient plant that is best consumed with reverence, and we advise not mixing it with alcohol or other substances. Listen to your intuitive wisdom and drink mindfully.
Read more about other people’s experiences with cacao on a night out Vice, The Tab
