What is a Cacao Ceremony?
This sacred Tree medicine can open your heart, heal past wounds, and illuminate the path toward gratitude and self-discovery. Mother Cacao embodies purity within us and unveils the best version of ourselves—an essence accessible to all. More than its enchanting qualities, Indigenous elders remind us that participating in a ceremony can harmonize our lives, aligning us with the greater cosmos and its wonders.
Modern cacao ceremonies are not replicas of ancient rituals, but expressions of a contemporary yearning to connect with this beautiful plant. How people in the past related to cacao does not overshadow our present cultural context and needs. Instead, today’s cacao ceremonies resonate with the ancient spirit of genuine connection, guidance, and learning from cacao itself. Engaging in a cacao ceremony is a heartfelt invitation to listen, connect, and grow.
A Cacao Ceremony is a profound act relating to cacao with gratitude, intention, and reciprocity. There are limitless ways to experience a cacao ceremony. Ceremony is an art form that responds to the unfolding truth of the present moment, encouraging us to embrace our unique paths.
The Solar Plexus Crystal Connection
This month, let us harness the radiant energy of the sun as we tap into our solar plexus wisdom to seek guidance, balance, and the support we need. With the heart-opening magic of cacao, we will connect with two powerful crystal allies who will illuminate our paths and provide the encouragement necessary in this transformative phase of our lives.
Amidst the whirlwind of change surrounding us, we are reminded to stay anchored in the essence of who we truly are. It can be challenging to find our focus when countless voices vie for our attention. This sacred ceremony invites us to return to our true selves, guided by cacao and our crystal companions: Citrine and Pyrite. Each of these crystals enhances our connection to our core, with Pyrite inspiring us to take bold action and Citrine offering clarity and support as we navigate our self-discovery in this evolving world.
Participants will select a crystal ally—either Pyrite or Citrine—to accompany them throughout the ceremony, and they will take this helper home to nurture their growth and potential. This month, we will delight in the blend of two exceptional cacao varieties: Uplifting Uganda and Oaxican Spice.
We encourage you to bring a journal or writing tool for reflection during the ceremony, along with a personal item to contribute to our communal altar.
The Medicine of Cacao
Theobroma Cacao, often referred to as the “Food Of The Gods,” carries with it a profound legacy that transcends time. It is awe-inspiring to recognize that the Theobroma genus dates back over ten million years, and cacao stands as one of the oldest trees within this remarkable lineage. By engaging with cacao, you’re tapping into a vibrant connection to an incredible plant that thrived long before the majestic Andes Mountains graced our planet!
The roots of cacao’s ceremonial importance trace back over 4,000 years, embodying the essence of both Amazonian and Mesoamerican cultures. It is revered as a sacred symbol, woven into ceremonies, and plays a vital role in the rich tapestry of Indigenous cosmogony. Embrace this heritage and let it inspire your journey!
Cacao & The Physical Body
Embracing the power of cacao can elevate your well-being by nurturing the body’s vital functions, including muscle, blood, immune, brain, and nervous system activities. This remarkable superfood is rich in essential minerals, including magnesium, chromium, iron, copper, calcium, manganese, zinc, sulfur, and phosphorus. Its rich array of antioxidants, like catechin, polyphenols, anthocyanin, and proanthocyanidin, fosters cellular recovery and fortifies your cardiovascular system. These potent antioxidants play a crucial role in supporting health and vitality, as well as preventing various ailments, including cancer, diabetes, osteoporosis, and degenerative diseases. Remember, cacao’s true source of vitality is Theobromine, not caffeine. This astounding compound promotes heart health by enhancing blood circulation by 30-40% through its unique blend of vasodilation and cardiac targeting, all while being gentler on your liver and nervous system than traditional caffeinated products. Embrace cacao, and let it inspire your journey to wellness!
Cacao & The Emotional Body
By dilating the blood vessels and reducing blood pressure through the active compound of Theobromine, the vibration of our body changes. This shift generates internal movements related to the expansion of the heart, which allows us to feel, in greater detail, the various aspects of our lives that often get overlooked. By stimulating certain memories and sensations, ceremonial cacao helps us immerse ourselves in the emotional sea of our inner world. Thanks to this it’s possible to have significant changes and important understandings in our lives and what surrounds us.
Cacao teaches us to interact harmoniously with our body and environment, helping dissolve knots or repressed emotions and giving us a feeling of well-being, authenticity, and gratitude. The emotional wellness benefits of cacao may be attributed to the various neuromodulators it contains, such as Serotonin, Dopamine, Anandamide, and Phenylethylamine, which create overall balance within our minds and hearts.
Cacao & The Psycho-Spiritual Body
By enhancing brain function through neuromodulation, cacao becomes a powerful ally for our mental state, guiding us on a journey of transformation. It dispels stress and invites us into tranquil, meditative realms. As some Indigenous sages teach, our spiritual body serves as the vessel where our senses, emotions, perceptions, and thoughts reside. This spiritual essence mirrors the ether that connects and distinguishes everything across time, opening our hearts to realms of wonder and the delicate layers of existence. By partaking in cacao during a ceremony with mindful intention and deep respect, you may ignite a profound connection to your purpose, nurtured by the timeless wisdom of nature.
The wonders of this sacred Food of the Gods continue to inspire us. Raven acknowledges the incredible privilege of weaving this delicious, nourishing, and holistic medicine into a community ceremony. After this sacred ceremony, we will elevate our spirits through a sharing of embodied gratitude. Together, we will indulge in our selected cacao, forging a deep connection with this beautiful medicine and our spiritual center.
NOTE: This sacred ceremony will occur on the floor. While yoga mats, regular and floor chairs are available, we encourage you to bring your floor cushions, pillows, or any other items that will enhance your comfort.