Advertisement
The earliest records of cacao ceremonies come from the sacred spaces of ancient mezo-america. Believed to express the maternity of earth, cacao was imbibed to affect the heart toward life. By its properties, to drink it is to evoke the experience of maternal embrace. Ceremonial-grade cacao, unlike standard cacao/chocolate, is cacao in its purest state. The beans are respectfully grown and harvested to protect its potency. The effect of ceremonial-grade cacao is due to four key components: Theobromine, Magnesium, Phenylethylamine, and Anandamide.
Theobromine enhances concentration and is a vasodilator, which causes the physical heart opening sensation. Magnesium is a relaxant and draws focus inward, allowing for a deeper meditative state and for fascia (the connective tissue that is connecting muscles and organs) to relax. Phenylethylamine releases happy hormones (serotonin and dopamine) and is an aphrodisiac, causing sensuality and creativity to flow. Anandamide is an endorphin that boosts mood, assuages pain, and decreases anxiety.
In these biochemical ways, the cacao makes one feel the love, encouragement, and security of a tender mother.
During the cacao ceremony, we will practice to complement the cacao’s effect, and feel her warm embrace. We will begin with a meditation to set our intention for the ceremony. Then, we will say grace and imbibe in the cacao. While the cacao settles in our system, a breathing meditation will enhance its processing. This will be followed by a time of expression: drumming or singing together as a group. The latter part of the practice will be an extended time of journaling. We will conclude with a yin practice, allowing the cacao to draw us into deep relaxation.
We hope you can join us for this time of intense heart opening, self-exploration, and relaxation.
To prepare for the ceremony
Drink plenty of water (cacao is a diuretic).
Fast for three hours before the session and avoid coffee, tea, and dairy on the day of.
Bring a mug that is special to you, a journal, and a writing implement.
If you are on mood-altering medication (such as antidepressants) please let the studio know beforehand so we may prepare an adapted concentration of cacao in your serving.
Have a self-care activity planned for after the ceremony.
Advertisement
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
29 Main Street, Amesbury, MA, United States, Massachusetts 01913
Tickets
