Spirit of Cacao
Cacao’s full name is Theobroma cacao, which means “food of the Gods”.
It grows mostly in the upper Amazon, South America and Mexico.
The modern western version of cacao that I use in ceremonies is most similar to the way the Spaniards prepared it: with cinnamon, vanilla and some form of sweetener. It’s been around for a long, long time. Indigenous cultures have used it in ceremony, as well as chewing it raw, straight from the pods in daily life.
Ceremonial grade cacao has so many benefits, both for the physical body and the spiritual + emotional bodies.
Health benefits
The theobromine in cacao makes it a more smooth, easy stimulant than coffee. It’s shown to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow.
It is a Superfood!
*full of antioxidants
*the highest plant based source of iron
*full of magnesium and calcium
*aids digestion
*balances hormones
*good for skin because of increased blood flow
*good for dental health! Theobromine is said to be better than fluoride!
*mental function, due to the flavonols
*can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol
*provides healthy fats, combined with MAO inhibitors which can aid in weight loss
*a natural mood elevator and antidepressant
Spiritual and emotional benefits
It is nourishing, supportive and heart-opening which aids in:
Practicing slowing down, performing a ritual for yourself
Focusing on our day’s intention, finding gratitude
connecting with plant medicine and therefore, nature
centering and ground us to start our day well
What is seems to support: Opening channels of creativity
Reigniting compassion for self and others
Connecting with higher self
Balancing masculine + feminine energies within
deeper meditations
Energetic properties:
It’s a powerful tool to go deeper in your inner work, whether it’s journaling, visualization, or shamanic journeying.
cacao ceremony can also assist in energetic healing and receiving clarity in the areas of love, purpose, intuitive abilities, career and personal growth.
Contraindications:
People taking SSRI type antidepressants could experience headaches because of the increase in serotonin in their systems. So, taking a very small dose, or even a sip can be perfect and very powerful in this case.
Serious heart conditions. The theobromine in cacao increases heart rate significantly and is a vasodilator,therefore lowering blood pressure. If you have such a condition, consider consulting a physician and certainly go lighter on amounts.
Pregnancy & breastfeeding. Like coffee or tea, it is important to reduce the intake of stimulating foods. The theobromine in cacao,does have a stimulating effect.