Ep 45: Rhythm Malhotra: What is 'Heart Activation Cacao Ceremony'?

Most of us lead lives where we feel stuck, not allowing ourselves to feel our emotions fully. Business and embodiment coach Rhythm Malhotra talks about the transformative Heart Activation Cacao Ceremony, which brings together ceremonial-grade cacao, breathwork, and sound therapy for an emotional catharsis.

Cacao, which contains theobromine that increases blood flow to the heart, gently enhances mental clarity, presence and emotional agency, according to Rhythm. She talks about the role of conscious circular breathwork in preventive care to release trauma that is stored in our bodies.

Rhythm is part of FindYourFit’s Wellness Carnival 2025 being held at Gurugram’s DLF Cyber Hub on March 8th and 9th, 2025.

Listen in!

Cacao recipes, courtesy Rhythm Malhotra 
(Check with your doctor if you are on BP or anti-anxiety medication)

Want to try making your own cacao at home? Whether you prefer it hot or cold, here’s asimple way to prepare it with intention:

Warm Heart-Opening Cacao
A cosy, grounding drink for reflection and relaxation.
Ingredients:
● 1 cup warm water or plant-based milk (almond, oat, or coconut work well)
● 1.5 tbsp ceremonial-grade cacao (finely chopped or in paste form)
● 1 tsp maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar (optional)
● A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne (for extra warmth and activation)
● A dash of sea salt (enhances flavor and grounding)

Method:
1. Heat the water or milk until warm but not boiling.
2. Add the cacao and stir continuously with a spoon or whisk until fully melted.
3. Stir in the sweetener, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Pour into a cup, take a deep breath, and set an intention before sipping.

Refreshing Iced Cacao Elixir
A cooling, energising version for warmer days.
Ingredients:
● 1 cup cold water or plant-based milk
● 1.5 tbsp ceremonial-grade cacao
● 1 tsp maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar (optional)
● ½ tsp vanilla extract (for a smooth, aromatic flavor)
● A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg● Ice cubes

Method:
1. Blend the cacao with cold water or milk until smooth. (You can also shake it in a jar if you don’t have a blender.)
2. Add the sweetener, vanilla, and cinnamon, then mix well.
3. Pour over ice cubes and enjoy mindfully.

Pro Tip: Sip slowly, breathe deeply, and notice how your body feels as you drink.Make it a ritual.

Timestamps
00:44 How Rhythm found alternate healing during Covid, post-MBA
07:49 Conscious breathwork and circular breathing to bring out stored trauma
12:46 Essential to do circular breathing with a practitioner
17:12 How the sessions work
21:19 What is heart activation?
26:39 Cacao as plant medicine
32:18 Sound as part of the therapy
33:47 Experiences during the Heart Activation Cacao Ceremony
35:30 Daily ritual for charity: 10 deep breaths
38:06 Who can have cacao and who cannot? How to consume cacao

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