Taste A Hug in a Mug!
Cacao, also known as cocoa, is a tropical tree that is native to Central and South America. The tree produces cocoa beans, which are used to make a variety of delicious products, including chocolate.
Cacao has been used by indigenous people for centuries, both as a food and for medicinal purposes. The Mayans and Aztecs believed that cacao had powerful healing properties and used it to treat a variety of ailments. In fact, the word "cacao" comes from the Aztec word "cacahuatl," which means "bitter water."
Today, cocoa is still widely used in medicine, particularly in herbal remedies. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and some studies have shown that it can lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.
Cacao is also an important part of the economy in many countries where it is grown. It is a major export for countries like Ghana, Indonesia, and Brazil, and the global cocoa market is worth billions of dollars.
From its medicinal properties to its role in the global economy, it continues to be an important part of our lives.
Cacao is also used in heart opening ceremonies.
A cacao ceremony is a spiritual practice that involves drinking ceremonial-grade cacao, a type of chocolate that is processed differently than regular chocolate to retain its natural, pure form.
The cacao plant is believed to have spiritual and medicinal properties, and drinking cacao in a ceremonial setting can have powerful effects on the mind and body.
During a cacao ceremony, participants typically gather in a sacred space, such as a temple or a yurt. The ceremony is led by a facilitator, who prepares the cacao and guides the participants through the experience.
The cacao is typically brewed into a warm beverage and consumed in small amounts. The facilitator may also lead participants in meditation, chanting, or other practices to help them connect with their intentions and open themselves to the effects of the cacao.
The effects of drinking cacao in a ceremonial setting can be profound. Cacao is a natural source of mood-enhancing chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine, and can help to reduce anxiety and stress. It can also provide a sense of grounding and connection to the present moment.
In addition to its physical effects, cacao is also believed to have spiritual properties. It is often used in shamanic practices, and some people believe that it can help to open the heart and connect with the divine.
Have a personal ceremony in the comfort of your home and try my 'hug in a mug' cacao recipe below!
Overall, participating in a cacao ceremony can be a deeply nourishing and transformative experience. It can help to connect us with our intentions and open us to new levels of awareness and connection.
If you have the opportunity to participate in a cacao ceremony, it is well worth considering.
Love,
Amanda