Ceremonial Cacao - Medicine for the Heart

Through the ritual of Cacao we encounter the four elements; Earth, Water, Fire, Air.

The Element of Earth is present in the Cacao itself. Earth is the sustainer, the nurturer, the ultimate teacher and medicine.

We add water to make a drink. She is carrier of all life; teacher of movement, fluidity and the balance between what needs to be nourished and what is ready to be released.

Through fire, cacao paste and water is transformed; they become one. We are gifted warmth and nourishment from fire, and the reminder that at times destruction is needed in order for new life to blossom. Fire carries the essence of Spirit, the force of creation and infinite sea of Oneness.

We whisk the cacao beverage to combine it, and so we weave in the air element. Air awakens the movement of our life force, it is the way everything is evolving or dissolving, moving and ever-changing.

Through the ritual of cacao we are gifted an opportunity to sink into presence. Herein lies the invitation to return home to yourself; to your essence.

We sip our cup of cacao to remember the interconnectedness of all things, the intricate web of creation, the thread of life that strings us all together.

HISTORIC USE

Cacao beans (seeds) are part of the cacao fruit growing on the cacao tree. The scientific name for cacao is Theobroma Cacao.

Cacao typically grows in tropical environments around the world, and is native to the upper-Amazon basin region. Historically, cacao has been considered a sacred plant, so much that for hundreds of years it was used as a currency (due to its spiritual purposes) in Mayan and Aztec cultures, as a means to pay taxes, commercial duties, and trade for luxury objects. Cacao later came to be known as “The Food of the Gods”, and there are many creation stories about how the plant was gifted to humans as a tool for remembrance and spiritual insight.

Records have found that as early as 1,500 A.C. cacao was used for ceremonial purposes and offerings during important days and celebrations. Typically held by the fire, cacao alongside other sacred foods—including corn and beans—were offered to the Gods (this is where we find the source for its scientific name, “theobroma”, meaning Food of the Gods).

** Due to the exploitation of cacao and the chocolate industry, it’s important to know where you’re sourcing your cacao and chocolate from. Look for fair trade, organic, sustainably produced and ceremonial (for 100% cacao) whenever possible. Sourcing directly from farmers and smaller companies are usually the better option.

So, a prayer of gratitude before consumption goes a long way.