The start of a new year is often a time for reflection and goal-setting—a chance to manifest the life you want to create or build upon.
When it comes to manifestation, vision boarding can be a deeply powerful practice. Rooted in the concept of “seeing to believe it,” vision boarding allows you to create a tangible representation of your goals through images, affirmations, and symbols.
By doing this, you send a clear signal to your subconscious mind—and the universe—that your desires are not only possible but already beginning to take shape.
Before you dive into vision boarding, it’s helpful to reflect on your goals and clear any blockages that might be holding you back. Then, lean fully into the practice of “seeing to believe.”
A Vision Boarding Ceremony
Rather than simply pulling out some old magazines and glue, I invite you to slow down and approach this as a mindful, intentional, and meditative process. So I wanted to put together a basic guide to creating a vision boarding ceremony from the comfort of your home or chosen space.
1. Prepare Your Space
Choose a quiet, comfortable spot where you can set up your materials and spend uninterrupted time. Light a candle, play soothing meditation music, and arrange meaningful items on a small altar. These items might represent your goals or the four elements (learn more about the four elements here.) This altar will serve as both a grounding presence and a symbolic reminder of the natural energies supporting your intentions.
2. Prepare Your Ceremonial Cacao
Creating your cacao drink is part of the ritual, so approach it with mindfulness and intention.
Ingredients:
- 30–40g ceremonial-grade cacao for a ceremonial dose
(about 20grams for beginners). - 1 cup of hot water
- Optional: A pinch of cinnamon for warmth and clarity
Steps:
- Heat water gently on the stovetop (don’t boil).
- Add cacao and whisk until smooth.
To infuse your drink with a connection to the new year, consider adding a touch of rosemary or lemon balm tea—both are associated with renewal and clarity.
3. Set Your Intentions
Before diving into vision boarding, take a few moments to reflect on your goals. Close your eyes, sip your cacao, and let its energy open your heart and mind. Allow yourself to feel grounded and connected to your vision.
4. Create Your Vision Board
Gather magazines, printed images, affirmations, and symbols that resonate with your goals. Arrange these items on a board—physically or digitally—in a way that inspires you.
- Find images that truly resonate with the reality you want to create.
- Add affirmations like “I am worthy of abundance” or
“I embrace balance and joy.” - Use symbols that evoke your dreams, such as a heart for love or a tree for growth.
5. Close Your Ceremony
Once your vision board is complete, take a moment to admire it. Hold it close or place it on your altar as you repeat affirmations or a gratitude prayer:
"I am grateful for the clarity and direction this ceremony has brought me. I trust the universe to support my dreams and align me with my highest good."
Blow out your candle to signify the close of your ceremony, knowing that your intentions are now set in motion.
Vision boarding with ceremonial cacao is a beautiful way to welcome the new year with intention and heart. It’s not just about setting goals—it’s about feeling them, believing in them, and aligning with the energy of the life you want to create.
So gather your materials, make your cacao, and let the vision boarding begin. Here’s to a year filled with possibility, growth, and abundance.
Let us know how your ceremony goes! Share your vision boards, cacao moments, or altar setups by tagging @groundedcup on Instagram.