Hot Chocolate, But Make It Spiritual -Inside Dublin’s Dreamy Cacao Circles

Every month, Olivia of The Light Practice hosts Soul Sessions - a kind of group therapy-yoga class with heart-to-hearts over a cacao ceremony - and it might just be your new favourite way to hit the reset button.

Ceremonial Cacao

These gatherings are rooted in the ancient ritual of drinking ceremonial cacao, which is nothing like your average hot chocolate - Ceremonial cacao is made with integrity in Guatemala. It has been ethically produced by indigenous people who have used it for ceremonial & medicinal purposes for centuries and honour its sacredness.

It is said that there is an energy, a spirit, sometimes referred to as Mama Cacao, that works through this plant and helps to activate a feminine energy within you. This energy helps you get out of your head and into your heart, where you can experience deeper relaxation, love, compassion, creativity and connection with yourself.

Alongside this, cacao is packed with magnesium, iron, calcium, anti-oxidants and other things that make it one of the world’s most nourishing superfoods:

Anandamide - Known as the "bliss molecule", the word "Ananda" is sanskrit and means happiness and really helps to boost our mood and feelings of love, joy and acceptance.

Theobromine - Promotes the release of dopamine with cognitive enhancement properties it improves our focus and concentration, helping us get much deeper into our meditation and helps with connecting to our inner selves.

This is cacao in its purest form, rich in flavour and purpose, known for opening the heart and soothing the mind. And Olivia doesn’t just pour and dash - she invites others to join her on a mat, journal and perform breathwork.

The Session

Once everyone has arrived and cacao is served, Olivia gently guides the group through breathwork and meditation. And yes, you can absolutely come alone. In fact, many do. There’s no pressure to share, no need to have any spiritual background. You can sip, sit, and just listen if that’s what you need that day. Olivia’s background as a holistic counsellor means she knows how to hold space.

The location for these sessions changes regularly - sometimes Phoenix Park, sometimes St Anne’s Park in Raheny, occasionally Blackrock Beach. People describe leaving the circle feeling lighter, clearer, and energised. Maybe it’s the theobromine, or just the magic of slowing down with intention and a warm drink in hand.

How to Book

So how do you join in? Soul Sessions typically cost €25–€33 depending on the location. They run monthly, usually on calm evenings from 7 to 9pm, and you can book your spot directly through The Light Practice website.