Cacao Ceremonies: What They Are and The Benefits | Rituals Studies show that pure cacao makes us happy, reduces stress and increases focus and creative flow. Learn how to brew your own traditional cacao drinks, Our website uses cookies for functionality, online orders and analytics. A cocoa ceremony is all about meeting each other mindfully, similar to. So how did the ancients do it? The Beach Is My Happy Placeand Here Are 3 Science-Backed Reasons It Should Be Yours, Too. As with ceremonial cacao, we use the full cacao bean and our product line is made of 100% pure cacao. Instructions. It's thought cacao was first used as a health elixir and ceremonial medicine as far back as 1900 BC by the ancestors of Central America, the Olmec people, before becoming a ritualistic medicine used by the Aztec and Mayan cultures. View our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. It's a 100% pure cacao-bean paste that contains a much higher . He called it Theobroma (food of the gods) cacao. Also, a cocoa is only truly ceremonial if it is ethically traded and organic. The Ceremonial Recipe. It provides nutrients for the body, it thins the blood, it helps bring clarity in the mind . Cacao is chemically the most complex type of food with an interesting effect on the body and mind. Origin of Cacao Ceremonies Cacao ceremonies have been around for thousands of years. The word cocoa comes from the Spanish word cacao, which comes from the Nahuatl word cacahuatl. Nahuatl is the language spoken by the Aztecs before Spanish became the official language in Mexico. A cacao ceremony is a journey held with loving intention in which the spirit of cacao can guide you to open your heart, connect with your inner truth in the rediscovery of the oneness of all beings. Our 100% organic ceremonial cacao is made by fermenting and sun drying the beans. 7 Benefits Of A Sacred Cacao Ceremony There is a reason that cacao has been used medicinally and spiritually for almost 3000 years. Like meditation or yoga, the cacao ceremony can be a simple secular practice that, when . In the Gold Coast, modern Ghana, cacao was introduced by a Ghanaian. Get your cacao fix every day with these three healthy recipesand find out why you may want to try eating it before bed. The cacao used in these ceremonies is chocolate in its purest form. When I participated in a traditional Mayan cacao ceremony in Uxmal, Mexico, the ceremony was held in honour of Chaac, the god of rain, to favour the land and thus their crop would grow. Message and data rates may apply. about the history of cacao ceremony and the process "from the cacao plant to the final cacao paste or powder" about how to be a space holder and the structure of a ceremony The cacao plant received its botanical name from Swedish scientist, Carl Linnaeus. What energy comes or goes?" It has an active ingredient in it called theobrominewhich can be translated to, "Food of the Gods." So it makes sense that cacao was given its sacred status, and enjoyed in communal ceremonies by the Maya with their Gods. You will learn the history of cacao and just some of its many beneficial chemicals, how to source and prepare your cacao, and open your intuition to her messages. This could include prayers and meditation, song and dance, and tantric breath work, and potentially a sound bath, to raise your vibrational frequency. A cacao ceremony may vary, depending on the host or the facilitator, yet these core values and rituals remain the same. My physical discomfort only got worse from there, despite the fact that Bojrquez kept coming over and holding her hands above my midsection in an attempt to help move the energy. As a facilitator it's important to know and respect the history of cacao, They mythology, who IxCacao is, what cacao does to the body, other people's experience and most important help people not only learn about the history of the healing medicine cacao and the spirit IxCacao. You may have heard about Ritual Cacao Ceremonies, especially if youre part of a ritual yoga community. Chocolate has always seemed a bit healing for meand my cacao-ceremony experience has only proven, for me at least, that's a fact. HEART OPENER. In this article, we'll deep dive into why they are so popular, taking a look at the history and the benefits of cacao and where to find a cacao ceremony in Bali. It gives us the setting and much needed time to look deeply within so that we may remember what is really important. I was hoping to return home from The Cape with my heart healed, and rainbows and glitter shooting out of my chest, but I now know that I have some work to do first. These are roasted particularly gently and finely ground to create a uniform mass. It is in this space of ceremony where we deeply heal old wounds and transmute them through . Newer Post , Please note, comments must be approved before they are published, NEW LIMITED EDITION VARIETIES ARE HERE | FREEE SHIPPING OVER $50 (L48). Cocoa ceremonies have been in vogue for a number of years. Preserving the native Arriba Nacional Cacao trees that were thought to be extinct, it is the first single-origin organic chocolate made entirely in Ecuador. Our professional production system ensures consistent quality you can trust. 1. Ceremonies can be done either alone or in groups. k o /), also called the cacao bean (technically cacao seed) or cacao (/ k k a /), is the dried and fully fermented seed of Theobroma cacao, from which cocoa solids (a mixture of nonfat substances) and cocoa butter (the fat) can be extracted. Its a rare item that is prepared very carefully to maintain its full range of nutrients. A cacao ceremony led by Lara Skadsen, a vibrational energy practitioner from Abu Dhabi, during which liquid cacao is consumed while participants share stories. Dial 2-1-1, About United WayStaff DirectoryCareersFinancesCommitment to DiversityBoard of DirectorsCampaign CabinetCommunity Grants & PartnersPrivacy PolicyFAQ. The goal is to uplift the communal mood, increase vitality, and open the heart, intuition, and other personal spiritual intentions. Ceremonial-grade cacao drinks have been used for emotional and spiritual healing for thousands of years. Since 460 AD cocoa beans were used to make food and drinks. Their special ingredient is theobromine, a natural stimulant thats longer-lasting, milder, and more pleasant than caffeine. More than 4,000 years ago, pre-Hispanic cultures along the Yucatan enjoyed cacao and as far back as Olmec civilization had cacao during spiritual ceremonies. The good news is that I'm already putting new standards for myself into practice. The ancient Mayans recognized cacao's many healthful properties and included it in their sacred rituals as an offering to the gods and ancestors. Deities were worshiped for bringing cacao to the world and it was used in rituals, ceremonies, feasts and festivals. A beautiful treat that melts on your tongue, although not always the healthy food for which is was prized by native Mesoamerican people. 57. After pouring us each a small cup of cacao, Bojrquez instructed us to close our eyes and hold it in front of our bellies. The Ceremony Training is composed of five chapters from The Art of Cacao guidebook for self-study written by Serap Kara, including the Cacao Mama Apothecary as a pdf file and 12 hours of pre-recorded audio material with exercises, deepening practices and meditations to . The cocoa bean was not only used for shamanic purposes, but also as a means of currency and medicine. Spaniards also introduced the cacao tree into the West Indies, the Philippines, and the rest of Asia, while Europeans introduced it to South Asia and West Africa. For more info check out our. Your official excuse to add "OOD" (ahem, out of doors) to your cal. Inspired by ancient cacao ceremonies to boost concentration, blood circulation and consciousness. They're also chock-full of nutrients, making cacao a super food that has been used in ceremonies dating back to the Mayans and Aztecs. 2 tsp sweetener of your choice, optional. Mythological origin of creation of people. Use 1/2 cup of water and 1/2 cup of plant-based milk and heat the liquid with the cocoa mass, some sugar and spices of your choice. Cacao has a long history of being part of religious and spiritual ceremonies. This means that your cocoa should consist of 100 percent cocoa beans. For example, for harvest season, they would hold a cacao ceremonial ritual to thank Chaac, the god of rain, for the previous harvest and set the intention for a prosperous season, since Mayan land used to suffer from droughts. At some ceremonies, the drinka mixture of water and ground cacao beansis infused with cayenne pepper or honey, but Bojrquez wanted to keep it simple for our session. When done alone, you connect deeply to yourself and harness your inner power. Then, together with your group members, youll drink your cacao with deep reverence. Consent is not a condition of any purchase. However, the cacao ceremonies that have been adopted in the West can be practiced ritualistically and individually at home, similar to a form of tea meditation. But you can also carry out a cocoa ceremony yourself, further down in the text we will tell you how. There are some differences in drink preparation among various shamanic practitioners, but the core recipe remains the same: ground cacao, water, cacao butter, and a bit of natural sweetener like coconut sugar, honey, or agave. Mythological origin of creation of people. In this blog we share about . I've also gone on a few promising dates since the ceremony, and I don't think that's a coincidence. Cacao has been gaining popularity as a super food in the wellness scene over the last few years, and rightly so! Cocoa is not just cocoa. Cocoa powder is mostly just a by-product from the extraction of cocoa butter, which is commonly used in cosmetology. I had just passed the two-year anniversary of a breakup from a serious relationship, having left the situation feeling confident I would meet someone better suited for me. 2022Well+Good LLC. During this retreat, you will taste and use cacao to improve your physical wellbeing, while improving your mental and emotional wellbeing with shamanic ceremonies, activities and special sessions. Named after how natives referred to cacao in their own languages. Honor and bless the cacao to give it collective healing powder. The cocoa bean was not only used for shamanic purposes, but also as a means of currency and medicine. The Program Holding a daily cacao ceremony for yourself can be a life-changing practice. Cocoa ceremonies are intended to release inner blockages and bring you into a harmonious state. Ceremonial cacao is potent, . My thoughts were tied up in all of the work I hadn't finished that day, but as I focused on the cacao, I began to relaxits rich, hot-cocoa smell transporting me to a vignette of a winter day spent wrapped in blankets, and lounging in front of a Hallmark movie. Why wasn't I experiencing the sensation that I so desperately wanted? Pour the cacao in your mug and pass it around the circle humbly. Most of the history we have available on cacao's traditional uses comes from the Southern regions of Mexico and Central America. "What thoughts do you have? Time Needed 10 minutes. What is a cacao ceremony? We also sell Premium Cacao Products for ceremonial and daily use as a superfood. The natives of South America worshiped the goddess Cacao, or Ixcacao. With such precious value, cacao was even used as currency. Store Locator Toggle device navigation Well, without giving gory details, one of the Mayan ceremonies involved preparing people to be lifted to the gods, and the cacao was essentially used as a way to calm the spirits and prepare them for the afterlife. How do you do your cacao? Cocoa beans are the basis of chocolate, and Mesoamerican foods including . The goal is to uplift the communal mood, increase vitality, and open the heart, intuition, and other personal spiritual intentions. Having made its way through the Americas it became entrenched into the culture of the Ama zonian, Olmec, Mayan and Aztec tribes who adopted its use. Chocolate drinks were being used ceremonially to mark celebrations and to finalise transactions of significance. A Cacao Ceremony gives us sacred space and time for ourselves in a chaotic and stressful world. The cacao used in these ceremonies is chocolate in its purest form. Corts (who was mostly against native culture and customs) wrote: This drink is the healthiest thing, and the greatest sustenance of anything you could drink in the world, because he who drinks a cup of this liquid, no matter how far he walks, can go a whole day without eating anything else. https://www.theyucatantimes.com/2020/01/the-origin-of-the-word-yucatan/, https://criobru.com/blogs/news/cacao-ceremonies-a-modern-expression-of-an-ancient-idea, https://cultivarium.com/que-es-una-ceremonia-de-cacao/, 118 Commerce Ave SWGrand Rapids, MI 49503616-459-6281communications@hwmuw.orgNeed help? Creating a sacred cacao ceremony for yourself and or others can be an incredibly special and powerful experience. Some practitioners add healing herbs or a pinch of nutmeg, cinnamon, rose, vanilla bean, or cayenne pepper. Some of the added benefits can include: mental and emotional clarity a connection to your inner child moving through emotional blockages self-love and self-care deeper self-connection with an elevated mood The Ceremonial Space Modern Cacao ceremonies are popping up everywhere. Most ceremonies also include at least one other modality that helps bring participants into an altered statemeditation, sound baths, dance, or, in my case, breathwork. Cacao gained a divine status in different cultures like the Olmecs, Izapan, Maya, Toltecs, Aztecs and Incas. The official Latin name for the cacao tree is Theobroma Cacao, meaning food of the gods. A healthy alternative to coffee, packed with antioxidants, magnesium and theobromine. Reply HELP for help or STOP to cancel. Cacao Ceremonies. Cacao ceremony, in the Western context, is a relatively new phenomenon, as people seek a new relationship with cacao outside of what the chocolate industry offers. Chocolate as we know today is processed form of cacao with less healthy compounds that make cacao so interesting. Like green tea, using boiling water with our cacao could heat out all the powerful nutrients. "Ceremonial Cocoa" consists of pure cocoa from high-quality Criollo or Trinitario beans. Sometimes the beans are ground in a heated mill to create a thick paste that solidifies. History of the Cacao Ceremony The Latin name for the cacao tree theobroma literally translates to "food of the gods." This is an homage to how the plant was viewed by the civilizations that used it. Cacao is an ancient plant that carries the knowledge to help heal the body + soul. According to sources and scientific studies on the botany of cacao, its origin is in Guatemala. So I wondered: How can I expect to find a partner who puts me first if I never put myself first? Our ceremonial cacao is single origin, sourced from one of the few remaining ancient farms in Guatemala, and is fully artisanal (i.e. Used for ceremonies, rituals and offerings. This seemingly small bean has more to it than meets the eye. Currency, dried cacao beans where used as money, mostly in the Aztec empire. Read our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions. Theo = god and broma = food. However, ancient cacao ceremonies are traditionally performed as a communal group experience, with a trained cacao facilitator or shaman leading. Cacao Ceremonies: Origin, Performance and Ceremonial Cacao, Fairtrade chocolate: the most important seals, Make instant cocoa powder yourself thats how it works, Cacao nibs: nutritional values, uses and sustainability, Vegan cocoa: with only three ingredients and without animal cruelty. It was also used in marriage ceremonies to connect with the heart chakra and help with fertility, births, funerals to calm the spirit and prepare for the afterlife, and by priests in regular practices. Infused cacao pods based in indigenous ceremonies An innovative way to enjoy hot cocoa. Being shared amongst tribes, meetings and served to guests. Our Ceremonial Cacao Is Created for Ceremony From variety selection, to fermentation & roasting, our ceremonial cacao is produced to optimize its quality & potency. They are also commonly practiced by the yoga community and spiritual groups because it has many benefits that promote inspiration, including the simple joys of connection and nutrition. Private imbibing of cacao connected people to the gods and to their origins, but it was typically a communal practice. Not all chocolate's the same, it should be pure, high quality grade, which is thought to help with energetic healing and obtaining insight in areas such as career, intuition, personal growth, and meaning.Sugar and other aditives can cancel the natural therapeutic effects of the drink, which has benefits of its own without the use of caffeine as in coffee. It is a powerful catalyst for healing work. Cacao ceremonies have actually been around for thousands of years, originating all the way back to Mayan and Aztec traditions in Central and South America, used for spiritual, medicinal and ceremonial purposes for inner awakening and creative guidance. A Mayan legend tells us that whenever there is an imbalance between humans and nature, cacao comes from the rainforest to open peoples hearts and return the planet to a state of harmony. Bojrquez explained that the cacao we were drinking was ceremonial-grade (which basically means it's strong and purebetween 70 and 100 percent cacao), organic, and sourced locally, from a farm in Tabasco, Mexico. Maybe it sounds cheesy, but the cacao ceremony reinforced for me that I won't be able to find real love and respect until I love and respect myself. Cocoa mass consists of 100 percent cocoa beans. All photos and illustrations by the author. A Healing Cacao Ceremony is a beautiful shamanic experience of connection and healing with Mama Cacao as your guide. We then drank our (extremely bitter) cacao while Bojrquez explained the breathwork portion of the ceremony. Then, once fermentation is complete, cacao beans are left to dry. This means its minimally processed and pure nothing is added or removed. They then crack open the pods, remove the white beans inside, and allow the raw beans to ferment for roughly one week. Theyre commonly practiced in spiritual groups and have many benefits, including the simple joys of communal connection and nutrition. (Just like Crio Bru) Some ceremonial cacao is totally wild, growing by itself in nature and specially prized by those who can appreciate its properties. The History of Cacao. Just like with the ancients, this is a both communal experience and a personally spiritual moment. For example, you can find ceremonial cocoa at Caobali or Cocoa Mama. Slowly whisk until melted. Youll bring your renewal with you out into your life. The natives of South America worshiped the goddess Cacao, or Ixcacao. Through cacao ceremonies, he discovered that we come to the world 100% charged with energy and connected to the elements of earth, over the years, these connections get damaged and our life force begins to wear out. "The more you breathe, the more clear the mind and the body become." The Early Days. These strains have the most potent compounds like tryptophan or theobromine. If submitting phone number, you agree to receive marketing text messages from Crio Bru Brewed Cacao at the number provided, including messages sent by autodialer. Mine was simple: To clear any energetic blocks keeping me from feeling fully open and able to connect with others, romantically or otherwise. Chocolate was introduced to Europe by the Spaniards and became a popular beverage by the mid-17th century. Cacao Mama's Ceremony Training is a guided online training into the loving, heart-centred consciousness of the Cacao Spirit. It is prepared from the cacao bean, the seed of the cacao fruit. Cacao ceremonies are popping up all over the world so no wonder people are qestioning what is a cacao ceremony? About 10 minutes in, my hands and forearms started tingling, and about halfway through the ceremony, I began to feel a highly uncomfortable, swirling, pins-and-needles feeling around my solar plexus. I've turned down several requests that would ultimately inconvenience me and cause me stresseven though the old me would have likely said yes and suffered through the consequences. I began to feel electric pains shooting out from beneath my ribcage, and at a few points, the swirling sensation became so intense, I felt as though I may pass out. Cacao's heart-opening properties are often attributed to its high levels of theobromine, a mild stimulant that's believed to temporarily boost mood. Cacao ceremonies are a form of meditation and self-reflection, and the benefits of this type of practice can include lower blood pressure, decreased stress levels, and overall increased sense of well-being. A Cacao Ceremony is a sacred ritual to look inside your soul, and warm up your whole being with a heart-opening plant medicine. Mythological origin of creation of people. In a ceremony, cacao is used in an intentional, sacred way and respected as a plant medicine. Used for ceremonies, rituals and offerings. Yet, in the past 24 months, I've experienced nothing but disappointment in the romantic department. My wife, Romany Pope, and I have held one, in one form or another, almost every day for the past two and a half years, and it has deeply transformed the way we encounter the world. It is sold in block form. A cacao ceremony is perfect for someone wanting to experience and grow through shamanic ritual without the often intense experience associated with Ayahuasca. Message frequency varies. As well as the nutrition and effects of cacao are an increasing popular topic for modern research for health, beauty and pharmaceutical industries. Some ceremonies use psychedelic substances, plant medicine, or better named earth medicine as fungi are not plants. Ceremonial cacao is not Hersheys dark chocolate. Traces found of its use date back to over 4000 years ago. Cocoa ceremonies can be designed in different ways, depending on your preference. When they lost their monopoly on import, cacao quickly spread through Europe. Mayan mythology says that cacao was discovered by the god Sovereign Plumed Serpent on a mountain and gifted to the Mayan peoples. Join over 22,000 customers who have added ceremonial cacao to their routines 4.9. It is believed cacao was enjoyed for spiritual, medicinal and many different ceremonial purposes to help achieve an inner awakening and creative guidance. For your cocoa ceremony you should use "ceremonial cocoa", i.e. Cacao ceremonies are more than sitting in a circle and drinking cacao. The cocoa bean (technically cocoa seed) or simply cocoa (/ k o. Add to cart. There are now guided cocoa ceremonies all over the world, including some major German cities such as Berlin and Hamburg. Song, chants and prayers often . Cacao has a long history in native cultures: As a sacred drink to connect with the divine. At its core, a cacao ceremony is any sort of ceremony in which a cacao beverage is consumed to elevate the spiritual ritual (s) being practiced. Cacao Retreat is designed to introduce the history, unique secrets and incredible health benefits of cacao. Cacao was an essential part of all ceremonies, be it birth, funerals, weddings, festivals etc. Join a group. Used for ceremonies, rituals and offerings. Use for Cacao Ceremony or daily use for good health as a superfood. Cacao has a long history in native cultures: As a sacred drink to connect with the divine. Do you take a long breath as you pour your Bru, set an intention for your day as you smell the aroma, or meet with a shaman? Some ceremonies involve partner and group exercises. A cacao ceremony is when cacao (preferably ceremonial grade) is consumed with mindfulness and intention. It was also believed that the gods gifted cacao to the people directly. Serves 1. Among its healing properties include: This was confusing to me, since I figured I would feel some kind of love explosion coming from my heart center. Explain your ceremony in the comments below, Older Post Cacao ceremonies are specially arranged to foster the grounding and heart-opening properties of cacao. Human history knows all kinds of ceremonies. Nana Marina And Tata P. Nacional Cacao is the oldest variety in the world, dating back 5,300 years in . Once you have the raw cacao, bring some water to a boil, and then add the cacao with love and intention. It can be made from scratch using raw cacao beans; however, its messy and not easy to break down. A Cacao Ceremony potentiates the Cacao plant medicine through . The word cacao comes from the Mayan words Kakau meaning heart blood, and Chokolaj meaning to drink together. This blood connection comes from the belief that the Mayan gods bled onto the cacao pods, and cacao was considered one of the ingredients used to create humanity. The cocoa ceremony is originally an ancient shamanic ritual. Different technological advances as well as adding sugar, milk powder and other ingredients lead to chocolate as we know it today. The most common uses of cacao as medication was to improve digestion, nervous system stimulation. Tell us! You will learn the history of cacao and its natural benefits, how to prepare ceremonial cacao to help the body heal and become a vessel for intuitive messages and wisdom. Once we have met her she give us the answers we are seeking, helps us find clarity, and shows us the next steps that we . But like with the ancients, cacao ceremonies are more traditionally performed as a communal group experience, with a trained cacao facilitator or shaman leading the experience to promote inspiration and human connection. However, you should plan at least one day for most of the traditional cocoa ceremonies offered, so that the spiritual effect can be better achieved. I'll share my research that includes my personal experience with ceremonial cacao as well as conversations with cacao producers and ceremonialists. Cacao has been used in ancient ceremonies by South Americans (the Maya) for thousands of years. Ceremonial Cacao Element Blends Tins Variety Pack (4 tins - 8oz each) $80.00. The Ceremony Cacao ceremonies are specially arranged to foster the grounding and heart-opening properties of cacao. As the ancient traditions of ceremonial cacao and cacao ceremony are becoming more popular in the urban jungle, more questions about cacao are coming up. Watch a Mayan cacao experience in Choco-Story Museum in Uxmal, Yucatan Mexico. Cacao has been a sacred drink for thousands of years, is loved everywhere in the world and has an interesting history that's worth keeping alive. Cacao ceremonies are experiential journeys meant to open your heart, heal blockages, let go of negative energy and.have a blast! At a cocoa ceremony, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the cocoa. Countries we've shipped to internationally. It uses pure, raw, non-processed, and sun-dried cacao beans. You will be encouraged to pay attention to what is happening for you and remain present as you share this experience. Cacao is a superfood, meaning it's especially beneficial for health and well-being. Eventually, I did fall asleep before waking up to soft music and all of my peers in savasana. SHAMANIC JOURNEYING. The beans are high in magnesium, iron, and B-complex vitamins and have more calcium than cows milk. Otherwise, the cacao is finished by roasting the beans, cracking them, and stone-grinding them. When done in groups they allow for open communication and connectedness. "The Food of the Gods" Cacao has an ancient history as a sacred plant medicine. Cacao is imbued with intention by everyone who touches it, from harvesting to heating. Heart Opening Cacao can open the heart and allow you to connect with yourself and others in a deeper, more loving way. But to be some of the first people ever in human history to consume Hawai'i ceremonial cacao, I am proud. Most ceremonies also include at least one. Get it daily. However, once I had space to process what happened in the ceremony, I understood exactly why my cacao encounter played out the way it did. Cocoa ceremonies are a spiritual ritual of the Inca and Maya that have been passed down from generation to generation. If you are interested in it for yourself, here is the type of experience you can expect. History shares that cacao ceremonies have been around for thousands of years dating back to the Mayan and Aztec cultures in both Central and South America. Cacao was believed to be the food given by God. In this how-to guide I share with you my simple process and rituals to facilitate a cacao ceremony. Sharing is caring! History has demonstrated that cacao began its ceremonial journey in Peru at the ancient sacred temple of Monte Grande with the ancestors of the Awajun tribes of the Amazonian jungle. At the end of these practices, you will collectively acknowledge the power of your shared experience and give thanks in a closing recitation or dance. A cacao ceremony is a sacred space to allow you to open your heart, heal yourself, set intentions for what you are dreaming in, + to connect with other spiritual beings. You may have chosen to do your ceremony a special location that includes a fire or is near the ocean, keeping you closer to nature. So that's how I found myself in a suite at The Cape, watching the sun set over the sea and sitting in a circle with three other women and our guide, psychologist and yoga instructor Ofelia Bojrquez of Baja Wellness. Courtesy Lara Skadsen Cacao ceremonies now often include one or a combination of healing practices such as reiki, sound, dance, yoga and meditation. It represents the new order of love and peace, which is being cultivated right now.. Funny enough this is where the word chocolate comes from, nowadays used for sweet cacao creations. not a single piece of machinery is used). Ceremony is a time to open up ritual space. Cacao Ceremony Facilitator Course. There are many companies making ceremonial cacao these days and more are to come. The course leads you through the essentials of creating and holding your own cacao ceremonies. 25-40 Cacao discs (30-40 grams, up to 50 grams) 5-6oz. As a frothy, godly and highly prized drink it was mainly consumed by the elite. Because of its value the beans were used as an early form of money, tax and even counterfeited! With Fairtrade products you support fair trade, which means that workers inside the production chain receive a fair wage. The 13 Spiritual Benefits of Chocolate. History of Cacao, history, traditionally uses, growth, ethical harvest & process Modular #2: Sun/Oct 2nd 7-8:30PM MST OR Wed/Oct 5th 11-12:30pm MST. Our offering includes Origin Cacao Beans Whole, Origin Cacao Nibs, Origin Cacao Liquor (Paste), and snack-sized Raw . Instead of constricting your blood vessels like caffeine does, theobromine expands them. Skip navigation Magazine Sustainability Do you have a question? It was also used in marriage ceremonies to help with fertility, at births, baptisms, and funerals, and by priests in regular practices. Learn more about Kichwa Cacao Paste. Grounding in Ceremony. This course sets you up to know everything from cacao and ceremonies: You will learn. The Spanish brought cacao back to Europe in the early 16th century. Cacao is still used as a plant medicine in ceremonies. Cocoa ceremonies are a shamanic ritual with the original goal of balancing the imbalance between humans and nature. Today, many native cultures practice cacao ceremonies handed down by their ancestors. Chocolate opens the heart and allows for a deeper, authentic love-based connection with yourself, others, and the world. In some cases it was offered directly to the gods as a sacrifice. cocoa mass. . The goal is to communally uplift mood, increase vitality, and open the heart and intuition, along with other personal spiritual intentions. They used cacao in many different recipes, from sacred drinks to energizing breakfasts. Here we like to shed light on its combination with psychedelic mushrooms or truffles, and the long history they share. "Simply allow the spirit of the cacao, the energy of the cacao, to be here," she said. But it was not just an ancient version of a superfood. Cacao Ceremony. The cacao tree is native to Mexico. After this the seeds are de-husked and stone ground into a paste . Fermentation and some degree of roasting have been used traditionally throughout history. The drink is always served thick, hot, and bitter. Chocoltl in Nahuatl language, spoken by the Aztecs, means bitter water' or 'bitter drink. It is said he was a very lucky man, who lived a happy life with his wife and seven children until a strange curse fell on his family. Cacao Ceremonies differ throughout the world and are as unique and individual as the origin of your cacao and the intention behind the ceremony. Attending a cacao ceremony will give you a chance to discover not only the world of cacao-based products also yourself. The process of preparing the ceremonial cacao product involves toasting the beans lightly, fermenting them to increase flavor and activate their properties, and removing the skins by hand. Cacao has a rich history in Mesoamerican native cultures. Plus, it tastes great! The Cacao Ceremony . If meditation, journaling, and long talks with smart friends couldn't turn my attitude around, I reasoned that maybe a thousands-of-years-old Central American rite that Olmec, Aztec, and Mayan elites leaned on to connect with the gods and promote good health could do the trick. The interest in native knowledge and use of cacao is growing. At the same time, cacao comes from the Mayan words Kakau, meaning heart blood, and Chokala meaning to drink together.. Average Based on 2100+ reviews #1. Each cacao seed, tree and bean has been treated with honour and deep reverence in accordance with ancient Mayan traditions and ancestral wisdom, which means that each . Then, I laid down and began the breathing circuit, my teeth and gums already buzzing from the cacao I'd just consumed. History of Cacao Cacao Wisdom Keepers . Establish a theme or intention for your cocoa ceremony. Available in two formats: for Keurig K-Cups brewers and Nespresso machines. This is a major theme not just in my romantic relationships, but also my friendships, my career, and pretty much every other facet of life. In addition, the cocoa ceremony should put the performer: n in a harmonious state so that he or she can experience more appreciation for nature and Mother Earth. Set an intention for the ceremony. The Mayan spiritual elders perceived cacao with a holy spirit. They are a group activity shared within a sacred space, and their communal nature amplifies the elements involved. A Cacao Ceremony is a sacred expression of an ancient ritual to foster the grounding and heat-opening properties of cacao. We have to do more for the cocoa farmers! Currency, dried cacao beans where used as money, mostly in the Aztec empire. The word CACAO actually came from the Maya word Ka'kau,which means to drink chocolate together as one. Being shared amongst tribes, meetings and served to guests. It is pure cacao-bean paste: Ceremonial cacao or ceremonial-grade cacao, as it is also known, is a very specific type of product. They drank their cacao during rituals and used it as medicine. The Maya celebrated an annual festival every April to honor Ek Chuah, (God of Cacao). You can even add some cinnamon or a little bit of cayenne pepper for extra taste. She chose a simple, circular breathing pattern for us, inhaling into our bellies and then into our chests, and exhaling out of our mouths in an exaggerated sigh. There are different written records of Europeans encountering cacao for the first time, all impressed by its flavor and power. The goal is to communally uplift mood, increase vitality, and open the heart and intuition, along with other personal spiritual intentions. From ancient rituals of the Mayans and Aztecs, the Catholic Church, all the way to modern cacao ceremonies, the food of the gods has proven to continue to enchant humans with its superfood nutrients and mysticism . Medicinal/ benefits, modern uses, forms & ceremony preparation Modular #3: Sun/Oct 9th 7-8:30PM MST OR Wed/Oct 12th 11-12:30pm MST. Crio Bru wholeheartedly seconds this. The word cacao stems from the Olmec and Mayan word kakaw. After you receive your cup you will likely be encouraged to quietly tune into yourself and set an intention and will be told about your cacao and guided through a blessing. Next, your shaman will guide you through various practices that are intended to open your chakras, strengthen group harmony, and help you direct your own divine energy. Heat your water to 170 degrees. In the organic farming are based on chemical-synthetic pesticides waived. Cocoa ceremonies have established themselves primarily in large cities. Cacao Ceremony: History and the Meaning Behind Legend has it that the ancient Mayan indigenous tribes performed the first cacao ceremonies thousands of years ago. Get your cacao fix every day with these three healthy recipes, find out why you may want to try eating it before bed. None of my go-to self-improvement tools have helped me shake the jadedness clouding my usually optimistic spirit, and my emotional walls have started impacting every area of my life. To prepare cacao for use, farmers harvest ripe cacao pods from adult trees. The Mayan believed that cacao was a key ingredient in restoring balance and connection to the divine. This is pure Raw Cacao and is dissolvable in hot liquid. Ceremonial Caco is an ancient Sacred Medicine used for spiritual elevation. A particularly large number of followers of the cocoa ceremony can be found in California. 4 Mistakes That Are Causing You to Waste Money on Skin-Care Serums, According to an Esthetician, These Are the Best Anti-Chafing Denim ShortsAccording to Some Very Happy Reviewers. As I reflected on the concepts associated with that third chakra, I realized that I'd been giving away my personal power a lot in the run-up to the ceremonydoing things I didn't want to do and, in some cases, even compromising my own well-being in order to keep the people around me happy. Keep in mind that Ceremonial Cacao is not your typical chocolate or hot cocoa that we drink in cold weather. MAYANA offers Origin Cacao, a native variety that produces "fine and flavor" beans -the highest grade beans- which are the scarcest and most highly regarded for their complex flavor and aroma. Cacao, and specifically cacao drinks, have been used for emotional and spiritual healing for thousands of years. Savour the cacao slowly and try to connect with yourself and the origin of the cacao. These ceremonies were used to begin various kinds of rituals to help uplift and connect an intention set during the ritual with the source, the gods, as Mayans believed there were multiple gods for different purposes on Earth). Everyone is all connected. Cocoa for your cocoa ceremony is easy to prepare: cut off a small portion of the cocoa mass. Today it is mainly used to help people to achieve more clarity or self-determination, as well as to release inner blockages. After traveling the world entering authentic cacao ceremonies and holding my own cacao ceremonies, I still continue my daily ritual. Today, the bitter bean has made its way from . . Cacao Ceremony - Connecting Women. Cacao's heart-opening properties are often attributed to its high levels of theobromine, a mild stimulant that's believed to temporarily boost mood. The next section discloses seven top spiritual . Ceremonial cacao refers to a much higher quality cacao that is used for its health benefits and conscious-altering psychoactive elements that you cannot be bought in your local supermarket or even health food store! Ceremonial Cacao - 100% Arriba Nacional Cacao paste (2.2 lbs) $66.00. This is how a cocoa ceremony works Cocoa ceremonies can be designed in different ways, depending on your preference. "With the breath, we move all of the [stuck] energy and bring it to the surface," Bojrquez said. This cocoa powder is used by the confectionery industry and in the making of cheap chocolate, usually by infusing it with lower quality vegetable fats. For both the healthy properties and spiritual power we prefer cacao in this pure form. Preparing the drink for the group must be done with the same intention and love. Mayan vase depicting a woman pouring a frothy cacao drink (Princeton vase, AD 670-750). . While theyve recently gained steam, they are not new. Never miss a sale! Today, Cacao Ceremonies are still practiced by many Native cultures that were handed down by their ancestors. Enjoy cocoa in its original form (ceremonial cocoa or cocoa mass). Chocolate is a popular type of sweets but you will be surprised to know that during history it has been consumed for its healing properties. Read more about the seals of Fairtrade chocolate products here: Fairtrade chocolate: the most important seals. Afterward, the other women shared the emotional releases they experienced and beautiful visions they saw. During fermentation, the beans transform from white to brown. With today's psychedelic buzz, you may not have heard much of them. On our ceremonial journey we need to look to the Mayans first. Cacao beans (seeds) come from the fruit of the cacao tree and have a distinctly bitter flavor. The cocoa ceremony is originally an ancient shamanic ritual. On a mystical level, raw cacao is said to open the heart (and not just because it's a main ingredient in chocolate), and my heart was definitely in need of some healing. Cacao is a heart opener and helps to . Add to cart. This is where the third chakra is locatedthe energy center in the body associated with personal power and self-esteem. It promotes powerful journeying, and connection with your spiritual wisdom, power animals, and guides. The best protection against click fraud. You add the ritual. Your group may form a circle or other configuration to increase harmony. It's beautiful to see people honor this medicine by creating heart-opening portals to journey with cacao. There is no relationship between modern cacao ceremony and ancient cacao ceremony, besides the desire to engage in sacred relationship with the cacao plant. The quality of cacao depends on different factors and we are especially interested in certain varieties of cacao that are as little processed as possible. When choosing your ceremonial cocoa, make sure that you fair trade and buy organic cocoa - just like when choosing baking cocoa and chocolate products. This can be, for example, a specific problem or a specific question. water, milk or herbal tea. Currency, dried cacao beans where used as money, mostly in the Aztec empire. You should avoid classic cocoa powder for your cocoa ceremony. All rights reserved. It was offered to the Gods and consumed by the elite for its nutritional and medicinal benefits. This film addresses some of the fundamental questions about ceremonial cacao from the perspective of Maya Tzutujil tribe in Guatemala. The cacao is imbued with intention by everyone who touches it, from harvesting to heating, and a facilitator prepares the drink for the group with the same intention and love. Join our list for exclusive promotions and product news! Group Cacao Heart Centered Ceremony (Cacao NOT provided) When the Aztec emperor Montezuma dined with Corts and his officers, they were amongst the first Europeans that have been offered a cacao drink. Some rituals last a few hours, while other cocoa ceremonies last several days. The Ancient Practice / Alt. Origin of Cacao Ceremonies Cacao ceremonies originally served as religious rituals for ancient Native cultures. The scientific genus name for cacao is theobroma, which translates to Food of the Gods, and the Maya believed that cacao was a key ingredient in restoring balance and connection to the divine. How can I open my heart and put my trust in another person when I can't even trust myself to do what's best for me? Whether you have a morning routine to prepare your first cup or embrace a group ceremony, fans of ceremonial cacao agree its a healthy, positive, and life-enriching experience. Some intentions you may want to set include personal empowerment, deep healing, and clarity. Cacao is our sacred sacrament. A Cacao Ceremony is a sacred expression of an ancient ritual to foster the grounding and heat-opening properties of cacao. Cacao and ceremony come hand in hand. . Cacao beans or seeds come from the fruit of the cacao tree and have a distinctly bitter flavor. Ceremonial cocoa is made from whole fermented cocoa beans. Well+Good decodes and demystifies what it means to live a well life, inside and out. Shop Pure Ceremonial Grade Cacao Tips for a Successful Cacao Ceremony Being shared amongst tribes, meetings and served to guests. At Sacred Earth Cacao, we believe in living intentionally and with gratitude. The experience I had, though, was purely physicaland not a whole lot of fun. Ceremonial grade cacao. Earth Medicines: Psilocybin and Cacao. However, the cacao ceremonies that have been adopted in the West have a broader and typically spiritually agnostic purpose that can be practiced ritualistically and individually at home, similar to forms of tea meditation. Today, the cocoa ceremony is practiced in many countries around the world. Some places sell raw unsweetened ceremonial-grade cacao, but its important to know where it comes from and that its fair trade for our Native indigenous cultures that still live off harvesting cacao. The cacao plant is seen as a medicinal plant and has been used for a number of spiritual, medicinal and ceremonial purposes throughout history. The Olmecs, one of the earliest civilisations in Latin America, were the first to turn the cacao plant into chocolate, very different from chocolate as we know it nowadays. Also its central position in Mesoamerican cultures is emphasized. Cacao ceremonies are supportive experiences that build community. The Cacao Ceremony: A Sacred Expression of an Ancient Ritual. Ceremonies that are powerful, safe, and grounded in love and . Supplier of ceremonial cacao in the us and Canada. Old texts and images on vases show that paste of roasted cacao was mixed with water, chili peppers and cornmeal to be poured between pots until covered with a thick foam. Used as a tool to lift the spirits of the soon to be sacrificed in the Aztec kingdom, required in the marriage ceremony due to its link to fertility, and even a part of the baptism ceremony and the birth of the child. Usually a relaxed, tranquil experience, the cacao ceremony is used to open the heart spiritually through the intense raw cacao beverage, paving the way to self-love and healing. Some shamans, therefore, consider cacao the 'food for the shift.' But it can also be about the perception of a certain feeling. Cocoa Barometer 2020: A poor certificate - and what needs to change. Cacao ceremonies create a powerful unique energy. With oodles of antioxidants, iron and calcium, it also brings many health benefits. Medicine of the heart Cacao helps us to journey within, connect to our heart, reveal patterns, cultivate self-love, increase consciousness and supports us in our path and personal growth. Pray for peace and inner awakening peacefully together. Next, Bojrquez asked us to bring the cacao cup to our hearts and set an intention for the ceremony. Cacao was sacred, holy, magical and was believed to lift spirits. But there are some points that are always similar in a cocoa ceremony: Note: There is no prescribed length of time for a cocoa ceremony. We explain to you what the spiritual ceremony is all about. How to effectively deal with bots on your site? It is the perfect space to switch off the external noise and take a shamanic journey into ourselves to meet the spirit of Cacao. Despite this long history of human use of cacao, we don't know everything about its diverse use across the globe because of the massive genocide of the . While the ancient Mayans and Aztecs of Southern Mexico and Guatemala are best known, there are contemporary Indigenous cultures in Central and South America who continue cacao use in shamanic ceremony, preferring it to locally available psychedelics. Cacao contains a natural compound called Teobromine, a natural stimulant that can help with better mental focus and creativity. Signifying both life and fertility, it was ingested by Royalty in ceremonial God worship and in sacrificial ritual. 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