What is Cacao?

cacao is plant medicine made into a chocolatey tasting drink using natural sweeteners such as plant syrups or honey and flavoured with sweet spices !

Cacao is an ancient sacred plant medicine from the theobroma cacao tree. It has been used for centuries by different tribes in the Amazon, Aztec, Mayan, south and Mid American communities. It is now used world wide by many!

Physical benefits

Cacao has many health benefits including zinc which supports immune system repair, Copper for bone and muscle strength, magnesium for nerve tissue repair and energy, theobromine which is a natural energy booster and increases blood flow. It contains flavonoids which have vascolatory effects. This widens blood cells this allows more blood and oxygen to enter the brain. Improving blood flow , this can boost cognitive function , attention and brain health. This promotes a sense of empathy gratitude and joy! It is used ceremonially or as a daily beverage. It brings you out of your head and into your body more details below : 

Anandamide

A neurotransmitter and endocannabaniod that promotes a feeling of euphoria 

phenylethylamine - PEA

PEA is a neurotransmitter responsible for creating a euphoric feeling  of love and joy known as the love molecule . it is released in the brain when we fall in love contributing to peace and happiness. Its found in high levels of cacao

Serotonin

Cacao can release serotonin levels in the brain up to 50% This neurotransmitter  regulates mood appetite and sleep , known as the happiness hormone. This promotes emotional well being and balance.

Oxytocin

associated with social bonding, trust and love, promoting a deeper connection to self, your body and each other . Known as the cuddle hormone.

magnesium

a muscle relaxant and essential mineral responsible for over 300 biochemical reactions. Reduces stress , increases blood circulation and supports heart health, healthy bones, regulates blood sugar and promotes healthy brain function.

Theobromine

natural energy booster, sharpens focus, relaxes the body, natural  remedy for anxiety and stress, widens blood vessels allowing more blood flow in the body.

Antioxidants

cacao contains flavaniods that start their journey from the first sip ! They are abundant in antioxidants that protect against free radicals in the body that result in premature aging of cells and illnesses such as cancer and heart disease.

Anti inflammatory properties

reduce inflammation and help prevent chronic disease such as arthritis and diabetes

 

Benefits of cacao as a plant medicine

The plant medicine of cacao has spiritual and energetic properties which can contribute the significance of various cultures and traditions. The effects can be felt straight away in the correct environment! 

heart opening

A gentle yet powerful effect on the heart energy plexus (chakra) to help release emotional blockages promote self love, connection to others, emotional healing , compassion, greater empathy and understanding. 

sacred medicine

Traditionally is  considered to be connected to the Devine , higher selves and spirit world , for guidance, clarity, insight support , spiritual growth and inner wisdom. It can open our minds to new possibilities and perspectives and encourage free flowing ideas, inspiration and insight. It has very grounding effect on the energy systems, harmonises physical and emotional upheaval stability and support. It deepens meditation and mindfulness, quietens the mind, opens the heart, can give deep reflection and contemplation

enhances creativity and intuition

spiritual properties of cacao scared medicine stimulates creativity, intuition, opening the mind and heart to new possibilities, new ideas, and a heightened sense of creativity.

it is very beneficial to artists, writers, creators tapping into the inner muse

grounding and balancing

helps harmonise physical , emotional and spiritual bodies which is particularly useful in times of stress, anxiety, sadness and emotional upheaval providing stability and support, when navigating life's challenges.

Deepening meditation and mindfulness

cacao medicine opens us up to profound wisdom and guidance , deepening spiritual growth and personal development by quieting the mind and opening the heart, creating a conductive environment for deeper introspection, reflection and contemplation. It makes us more alert to the environment around us to promote mindfulness 

 

The difference between cacao and cocoa

cacao and cocoa come from the same beans from the cacao pod , but they are processed differently. Cocoa is the powder left after the fat from the bean has been pressed out after roasting. Usually it is roasted on a higher heat more quickly . Cocoa often has added preservatives which depletes and destroys many of the plants medicinal qualities and is used in conventional chocolate with added fats such as cocoa butter and sometimes palm oil and far less nutritional value. 

Cacao the raw unrefined  beans from the Theobroma Cacao tree are first fermented to secure the medicinal benefits of the plant. This is done by leaving the beans in there coating known as Baba to ferment. This gives heat , enzymes and  acid that reduces the bitterness and keeps in antioxidants. Then the beans are left in the sun to dry for up to 4 weeks. Once dried they are roasted on a low heat using a barrel or oven until around 6.5-7 % moisture. They are then separated into husks and nibs called winnowing . Then it is powdered and pressed into a block. this process kept the bean at optimum nutrition while reducing the bitterness

Why cacao?

Its a tasty very nutritious chocolate drink , with ancient wisdom passed down through generations of plant medicine . A very heart opening  and earth connecting sacred plant medicine

The events

The events will be based on different themes around equinox and new and full moons times . They will involve breathwork techniques for relaxation and regulation. Then a lovely heart warming cacao ceremony with a chance to bring bits of nature and small sentimental things such as small photos of loved ones or pets , crystals , anything that makes you feel at home and opens your heart. Connecting to the earths natural rhythms yourselves and community. Cacao is very rich in nutrients so an empty stomach for 2-4 hours beforehand will give optimum benefits. Then there will be a chance to shake , move, stretch or even full on dance in a non judgemental comfortable environment. Feeling into any tension and pain and releasing the stuck energies and emotions . Concentrating on the energy plexus system known as chakras and how they connect to the elements of our being! Starting from the bottom/root upwards to the crown and biofield, to some upbeat music and comforting lighting. A chance to draw or paint any feelings or thoughts about the movement, first thing that comes to mind is great. lastly a relaxing meditation sound journey, using shakers, bells, tong drums, solfeggio frequencies , drums and singing bowls . A perfect way to relax, tune into the earthly energies , connect to self and leave  relaxed, for filled and regulated . Comfy clothing or pyjamas , blankets pillows anything that keeps you warm and comfortable.  Refreshments will be provided and i would recommend a warm hearty meal afterwards. Drink plenty of filtered water throughout and afterwards to avoid dehydration headaches   .