Over the last few years, I have witnessed the growth of Cacao circles. This evokes mixed feelings in me - while I am glad to see Cacao celebrated and reaching more people, I am also fiercely protective of how she is honored and shared. 

As sacred space holders, we have a big responsibility to create and maintain a safe environment for collective energy transformation and inner exploration. Circles rooted in ancient traditions are where profound connection, healing and transformation happens. When we talk about holding space for this depth of connection, it’s important to recognize the immense duty that comes with it.

What Makes Something Sacred?

I humbly acknowledge I do not have the full answer to this question. What I can say is sacred circles are not just about gathering; they are about connecting to something much deeper. While casual meetups and gatherings have their purpose, sacred circles provide something far more profound. They are a bridge to the past, a portal that allows participants to tap into the wisdom of those who came before them. 

Every magical circle I have created and experienced had a key intention at its heart. When supported by respectful elements of ceremony, a simple gathering transforms into a powerful container of shared experiences. 

Without getting regimental about rituals, I must highlight their value in ceremonies. The practices I work with offer a way to honor traditions and connect with the sacred in a structured way. Sacred circles are safe spaces for soul work, where we can better understand ourselves and our connection to each other.

The Role of the Space Holder

The wisdom of an experienced facilitator is what holds the container so that the group can experience what it needs to. Through rituals, guided meditations, and other practices, a facilitator or ceremonialist helps participants connect with their inner wisdom and the collective energy of the group. 

In my own circles, I prepare both the physical and energetic space hours beforehand, setting intentions that align our energy. This preparation is felt, and is key to fostering safety and openness so that participants can arrive well. During the ceremony, I focus on being present, grounded and attuned to the group’s energy. I do not experience the circle the same way as participants - my role is to serve as a conduit and maintain a supportive environment. What makes sacred circles so magical is that each one is unique. A ceremonialist’s biggest task is to maintain the integrity of the circle, which requires navigating the shifting energies of both the collective and individuals. 

Beyond facilitating, we also serve as active listeners. At the end of each circle, I dedicate time to hold space as participants share emotions and insights. This is a very important part of integration as it helps participants to connect their experiences in a circle to their daily lives. 

Embodying Ceremony Beyond The Circle

My best advice for someone exploring facilitation and space holding - get ready for YOUR personal growth journey. Facilitation is the deepest self work I have ever done. It can be hard and humbling, and also my greatest teacher in embodiment. Ceremonies are not static, dissociative experiences from everyday life. They are in fact mirrors to our very selves and what we need to work on - this applies to participants and us ceremonialists too. 

When I facilitate Cacao in ceremony, I see the areas of growth that need to happen in my personal life. You will have to find ways to grow, nurture yourself and pour into your own cup beyond each circle. You will need to learn what it means to integrate rituals and respect in your own life, before you bring them into spaces for the collective. We cannot give what we don’t have. And to be of service to the world means we first have to be of service to ourselves.

Your Journey Is Yours Alone

Each one of us has a unique gift. Whether we activate and serve with this gift is our choice to make. When I felt called to step into this role, I knew something within needed to be awakened and remembered. I knew my journey involved becoming a better space holder for myself and others. I have learnt to tap into my own experience and to trust myself. And to lean on the support of elders, teachers and ancient wisdom within me. 

I created the Space Holder Facilitator Training as a program to support those of you who feel a deep calling to the spiritual path, who wish to deepen your personal practice, and who are ready to step into the role of a ceremonialist with authenticity and confidence. The training has been crafted to help you enhance the spaces you hold, in a way that’s deeply connected, transformative, and aligned with the wisdom of the ages. 

Let’s create a world where ceremonies are held with integrity, respect, and a deep connection to the sacred. If you have any questions or want to explore whether this training is right for you, I’d love to chat.

Together, we can create a space where your medicine can truly shine. If this resonates with you, join me on this journey and register here.