WHAT IS CEREMONIAL GRADE CACAO ?
We are talking about 100% cacao straight from the bean, and ground down into what is known, as the ‘cacao liquor,’ and renowned for its many health benefits that support physical and psychological well-being.
PHYSICAL BENEFITS
Cacao brings natural stress relief, because it contains potassium, phosphorus, copper, iron, zinc, and magnesium which contribute to cardiovascular health. Cacao has the ability to trigger the release of dopamine and the endorphin phenylethylamine, both of which soothe the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and depression. Scientific research now confirms that chocolate helps to relieve emotional stress.
Most importantly, it contains anandamide, the bliss molecule. Anandamide is an endogenous ligand that your body produces when you feel a workout “high.” It is a natural pleasure molecule that fits into the cannabinoid receptor sites of the cells of the nervous system.
Pure Cacao also contains powerful antioxidants along with a significant amount of chromium, which balances blood sugar levels. It increases the blood flow to the brain, creating more mental agility, awareness and focus.
EMOTIONAL AND SPIRITUAL BENEFITS
Cacao is a powerful plant medicine and has many amazing, life-affirming qualities that support health and psychological well-being. She is a powerful Plant Medicine that helps us to release emotional blockages that no longer serve us, find forgiveness in ourselves and others, and shows us the way forward if we are stuck, or afraid of making necessary life changes. It also enables us to access stuck emotions, conditionings, patterns of behaviour and addictions that are buried deep in the unconscious.
Historically, cacao has always been considered a very powerful aphrodisiac, exotic food, and medicine, by the Mesoamerican and South American cultures, such as the Mayans, Aztecs and Spanish conquistadors. Its Greek name Theobroma Cacao literally means ‘Food of the Gods, Thea (god), Broma (food), with the Maya word Ka’kau.’
Benefits are found in the neurotransmitter modulating agents that act as natural antidepressants. Its high valeric acid content blocks the stress hormones, while triggering the release of dopamine, anandamide and the endorphin phenylethylamine, all of which are known as the ‘bliss molecules’. Cacao also contains the essential amino acid tryptophan, which increases production of serotonin, an important brain chemical that helps us remain positive and happy. These neurotransmitters also remain in the bloodstream longer after ingesting cacao, creating a natural antidepressant benefit, while the theobromine and caffeine content boosts energy levels and relieves fatigue.
Cacao has heart-opening properties can be attributed to its high levels of theobromine, which widens blood vessels, increases blood flow, and specifically stimulates the heart.
WHAT IS A CACAO CEREMONY
A Cacao Ceremony gives us sacred space and time for ourselves in a chaotic and stressful world. It is the perfect space to switch off the external noise and take a shamanic journey into ourselves to meet the spirit of Cacao. 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 need to take.
Cacao is a powerful Plant Medicine that helps us to release emotional blockages that no longer serve us, find forgiveness in ourselves and others, and shows us the way forward if we are stuck or afraid of making the necessary life changes in order to move on.
Cacao also enables us to access stuck emotions, conditionings, patterns of behaviour and addictions that are buried deep in the unconscious and release them in safe and nurturing environment.
We drink Cacao in ceremony to reconnect with our deep inner guidance. Using Shamanic journeying, Ashley guides you to meet the Cacao Spirit to discover more about yourself, release negative blockages, open your heart, and find peace and clarity. Cacao is not psycho-active and doesn’t take you out of your body. Everyone will experience Cacao differently. It all depends on an individual's extra sensory perception, and how Cacao works with you.