When we think of “heart-opening” experiences, we often imagine emotional vulnerability, connection, and a deep sense of love or compassion. But did you know that what we eat can also play a powerful role in opening our hearts—physically, emotionally, and energetically?

In holistic nutrition, we see food not just as fuel, but as a medium to nourish the body and spirit. Some foods can enhance circulation, support cardiovascular health, and even elevate neurotransmitters associated with love and connection. Others are rich in antioxidants, magnesium, or calming compounds that ground us into presence—making space for a more open, expansive heart.

Here are 10 of my favourite heart-opening foods that support both physical heart health and emotional wellbeing. 🌿

1. Beetroot

Beets are grounding, earthy root vegetables packed with nitrates, which help dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow. This increased circulation can help deliver oxygen and nutrients to the heart and brain, supporting both cardiovascular and cognitive function.

Their deep red pigment, betalain, is also a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory—both of which are essential for a healthy, open heart.

Try this: Roast beetroot with rosemary and olive oil, or blend it into a vibrant beet hummus for a nourishing snack.

2. CeremonyCacao

Cacao is arguably the heart-opening food—and not just symbolically. Rich in magnesium, the mineral of relaxation, cacao helps calm the nervous system and soften physical tension in the body. It also contains theobromine, a gentle stimulant that supports heart function and enhances circulation without the jitteriness of caffeine.

But what truly sets ceremonial cacao apart is its ability to shift us into an open, receptive emotional state. It boosts anandamide (the “bliss molecule”) and increases levels of serotonin and dopamine—neurotransmitters that help us feel love, joy, and connection.

Try this: Prepare a warm cup of Ceremony Cacao with filtered water, a pinch of sea salt, and a touch of cinnamon. Sip slowly and intentionally—allow it to open your heart space.

3. Avocado

Avocados are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that support cholesterol balance and cardiovascular health. They’re also an amazing source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and reduce tension.

Energetically, avocados are grounding yet nourishing—perfect for creating emotional safety and stability.

Try this: Spread avocado on sourdough toast with lemon and chili flakes, or blend it into a creamy cacao-avocado mousse.

4. Pomegranate

Pomegranate seeds are rich in polyphenols and antioxidants, especially punicalagins, which are shown to reduce inflammation and support blood vessel function. Their jewel-like appearance and sweet-tart taste feel luxurious and sensual—offering a sensory experience that naturally opens the heart.

Try this: Sprinkle pomegranate seeds over your morning oats or toss them through a colourful salad.

5. Rose

Rose isn’t just for perfumes or bouquets—it’s also edible and medicinal. Rose petals and rose water are calming to the nervous system, mildly uplifting to the mood, and energetically associated with love, softness, and heart healing.

Try this: Add organic food-grade rose petals to your cacao ceremony, or enjoy rose tea in moments of emotional overwhelm or grief.

6. Walnuts

Shaped like a tiny brain, walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which support heart and mental health. They also provide L-arginine, an amino acid that helps blood vessels relax and supports nitric oxide production for improved circulation.

Try this: Snack on soaked walnuts or add them to porridge, salads, or grain bowls.

7. Dark Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Silverbeet)

Leafy greens are mineral-rich powerhouses, packed with magnesium, folate, and vitamin K—all of which play crucial roles in cardiovascular function and blood flow. Magnesium also supports the nervous system, helping us shift from stress mode into a more relaxed, heart-centered space.

Try this: Sauté greens in olive oil with garlic and lemon, or blend them into your morning smoothie for a green boost.

8. Strawberries

Sweet, juicy, and bursting with vitamin C and flavonoids, strawberries are wonderful for heart health. Vitamin C helps protect arteries from oxidative stress, while their sweetness offers an emotional lightness and playful joy that’s hard to resist.

Try this: Enjoy them fresh, dip them in cacao, or blend them into a creamy smoothie.

9. Turmeric

This golden root is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to curcumin. Chronic inflammation is a major driver of heart disease, and turmeric helps calm the body on a cellular level—bringing in both physical and energetic warmth.

Try this: Make a turmeric latte with coconut milk and black pepper, or add it to curries and roasted vegetables.

10. Hibiscus

Hibiscus is a vibrant crimson flower often used in teas. It’s naturally tart and high in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which help lower blood pressure and protect the blood vessels. Energetically, hibiscus is associated with sensuality and heart expression.

Try this: Brew a strong hibiscus tea and chill it for a refreshing iced drink, or blend it with rose and a touch of honey for a calming infusion.

Opening the heart isn’t just about emotions—it’s a full-body experience that involves the nervous system, circulatory system, and even our gut-brain connection. By weaving these nourishing, heart-centered foods into your daily rhythm, you’re creating space for more love, presence, and vitality.

Whether it’s the grounding sweetness of beets, the gentle lift of hibiscus, or the soulful warmth of ceremonial cacao—these foods are here to guide you home to your heart. 

Ready to experience the heart-opening magic of cacao?
Explore our ethically sourced, small-batch ceremonial cacao here.