What Happens in a Cacao Session? A First-Timer’s Guide
Curious about cacao sessions? Find out what happens, how cacao is served, what to wear, what to bring and how an I AM BEING session is structured.
If you have seen a cacao session listed and wondered whether you need to know anything before attending, the answer is simple: you do not. A well-described session should tell you exactly what will happen, how long it lasts and what you need to bring.
At I AM BEING, cacao sessions are structured wellbeing experiences built around a shared cup of ceremonial cacao. Depending on the event, the cacao may be combined with guided breathing, meditation, journaling, gentle movement or a sound bath. The emphasis is on clear guidance, comfort and giving people time away from the pace of the day.
What is a cacao session?
A cacao session is a guided group or private experience in which ceremonial cacao is prepared and served as part of the session. The facilitator will usually explain what the cacao is, where it comes from, how it is made and how much is being served before anyone drinks it.
The format can vary. Some cacao sessions focus mainly on tasting and education. Others include quiet reflection, breathwork, guided relaxation or live sound. Before booking, read the event description so you know whether you are choosing a short cacao class, a cacao and sound session or a longer combined experience.
What happens when you arrive?
You will normally be welcomed into the space, shown where to sit or lie down and given any practical information you need. Mats, blankets and cushions may be provided depending on the venue. There is usually time to settle before the cacao is served.
At I AM BEING, we explain the flow of the session at the beginning so there are no surprises. If the event includes sound, movement or journaling, that will be made clear. Participation in reflective elements is optional.
How is the cacao served?
The cacao is prepared as a warm drink. I AM BEING uses 100% cacao from Flores Island in Indonesia. It contains no added sugar, dairy, sweeteners or preservatives. For group sessions, the preparation may include water and a suitable plant-based milk, with flavour additions such as cinnamon or a small amount of sweetness depending on the event.
Serving information should be shared clearly. At I AM BEING, around 25g is our everyday serving guide and around 40-42g is a fuller serving. Event servings are planned for the specific format, and participants can raise any concerns before drinking.
What else happens during the session?
After the cacao is served, the session may move into a guided part of the experience. That could include a short breathing practice, a guided meditation, simple journaling prompts, gentle movement or a period of rest with live sound from crystal bowls and chimes.
Longer I AM BEING sessions often combine several of these elements so there is a clear beginning, middle and end. A shorter class may focus more on cacao education, preparation and tasting.
Do you have to meditate or journal?
No. If a facilitator offers journaling questions, you can write as much or as little as you like. If there is a guided meditation, you can simply listen. A cacao session should not require people to share personal information with the group.
The practical purpose of prompts is to give people a focus if they want one. In a group setting, privacy and choice matter, so reflective exercises should remain optional.
What should you wear and bring?
Wear comfortable clothes, particularly if the session includes lying down, gentle movement or a sound bath. Layers are useful because you may feel cooler while resting. You do not need specialist yoga clothing.
Check the event description for what the venue provides. A bottle of water and, if requested, a journal can be useful. If mats and blankets are supplied, you can usually arrive with very little.
How long does a cacao session last?
Cacao sessions can range from a short tasting or lunchtime format to a longer two- or three-hour experience. The right length depends on what is included. A cacao and sound session needs more time than a simple tasting because participants need time to arrive, drink, settle and move into the sound portion without being rushed.
I AM BEING offers public, private and corporate formats, so timings are described on each booking page.
Can you attend on your own?
Yes. Public cacao sessions are designed for individuals as well as friends or pairs. You can book a place on your own and take part without needing to know anyone else in the room.
If you would rather have a smaller experience, private cacao sessions can be arranged for one person, two people or a small group. These are useful for birthdays, gifts, friends spending time together or anyone who simply prefers a more private setting.
What if you have dietary or health questions?
Read the booking information and contact the facilitator before attending if you have an individual concern about ingredients, medication, pregnancy, blood pressure or another health consideration. The facilitator can explain the serving format and practical options, but a wellbeing session is not a substitute for medical advice.
For dietary questions, check exactly what is added to the cacao. Pure I AM BEING cacao itself is vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free, but an event recipe may include other ingredients, so the serving information matters.
Where can you book a cacao session in London?
I AM BEING runs cacao sessions in South West London as well as private and corporate bookings across London. Public events may combine cacao with sound, breathwork, meditation or gentle movement, with the exact format explained in the event listing.
If you are thinking about trying cacao for the first time, choose a session whose timing and format feel straightforward to you. You do not need prior experience - just read the practical information, arrive comfortably and take part at your own pace.
