Terms and Conditions

CAUTIONS AND WARNINGS

For safety reasons, sound healing instruments should not be applied directly to the body during pregnancy—particularly within the first 12 weeks—and must never be used on the abdomen or lower back of a pregnant individual.

Individuals with epilepsy should not participate in sound healing sessions without prior consultation with their healthcare provider to ensure appropriate medication management and to confirm that sound vibrations will not trigger a seizure.

A minimum distance of 8 inches must be maintained between sound healing instruments and any implanted medical devices, including pacemakers, stents, or shunts.

SOUND BOWL CONTRAINDICATIONS

Sound healing instruments should not be used in the following cases:

• Over areas affected by deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or known blood clots.
   
• On or near open wounds.
   
• On areas with acute inflammation or tumors.
   
• Directly on or above a pacemaker or defibrillator. A minimum distance of 8 inches should be maintained from the implanted device.
   
• Directly on or near metallic implants, including joint replacements or surgical hardware.
   
• Immediately post-surgery, until sutures have been removed and the incision is fully healed.
   
• Around the neck in individuals with carotid artery atherosclerosis.

Medical Consultation & Usage Restrictions for Sound Healing

Before participating in sound healing sessions, the following individuals are strongly advised to consult with their healthcare provider:

• Individuals with carotid stenosis, particularly prior to application near the carotid artery or larynx
   
• Individuals with cardiac pacemakers, artificial heart valves, or cardiac arrhythmia
   
• Individuals with a stent
   
• Individuals with a shunt
   
• Individuals with a deep brain stimulation (DBS) device
   
• Individuals with epilepsy
   
• Individuals who are pregnant
   

Sound healing instruments must not be applied directly to the body in the following cases:

• Over or near implants, including screws, artificial joints, or any area that has not fully healed
   
• On or near inflamed joints, veins, or diseased veins
   
• On skin affected by inflammatory conditions, such as weeping eczema or other active skin disorders
   
• On the abdomen or back of a pregnant individual

Treatment should not commence until three days after injury at the earliest for:

• Whiplash

CACAO CEREMONY CONTRAINDICATIONS
If you are currently taking antidepressants, SSRIs, or other medications, have a heart condition, or are pregnant, please consult your healthcare provider before participating in a cacao ceremony.

Ceremonial-grade cacao contains theobromine, a natural stimulant and vasodilator, which can increase heart rate and lower blood pressure. In the concentrated doses used during ceremony, cacao can increase blood flow to the brain and heart by 30–40%, potentially amplifying the effects of any substances or medications present in your system.

Antidepressants, neuroleptics

Individuals taking antidepressants or 5-HTP should consult their healthcare provider before consuming ceremonial cacao, as cacao contains tyramine, which may interact with these substances.

Cacao is contraindicated for anyone taking MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) antidepressants, as the combination can pose serious health risks. Additionally, those taking antipsychotic medications should not participate in cacao ceremonies, as the effects of cacao may conflict with these treatments.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding 

Cacao is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding when consumed in moderation. Recommended amounts are approximately 1 ounce (28 grams) during the first and second trimesters, and a reduced dose of about 2/3 ounce (20 grams) during the third trimester.

It is important to note that some fetuses and breastfed infants may be sensitive to cacao. While this is typically not a concern, infants may signal any adverse reactions. Therefore, it is advisable to start with a small amount and observe any responses.

During breastfeeding, a recommended dose is approximately 2/3 ounce (20 grams) until it is clear how the infant reacts to cacao consumption.

Epilepsy

High consumption of cacao can have stimulating effects on the brain. Some scientific studies suggest a potential link between caffeine and cacao intake and an increased risk of seizures in individuals with epilepsy. However, the current evidence remains inconclusive.

The cacao used in our ceremonies contains approximately 0.0012% caffeine.

For this reason, individuals with a history of epilepsy are advised to exercise caution and consult their healthcare provider before consuming cacao.

GERD & IBS

It is best to begin consuming cacao in a smaller quantity (10-20g) to assess sensitivity. 

Bleeding Disorders 

Consult with a doctor prior to consumption if you have a bleeding disorder or are consuming any related medication. 

Heart conditions, high/low blood pressure

Consult with a doctor before using cacao.

Sensitivities (e.g caffeine or stimulant sensitivities)

It is best to begin consuming cacao in a smaller quantity (15-20g) to assess sensitivity. 

Medication use 

It's advisable to not take St. John's wort at the same time as cacao for the same reasons as the SSRIs.  It is best to consult with a doctor about all drugs and supplements you are using or considering, prior to the consumption of cacao.