Written by: Emilyn Gil
The first time I experienced the taste of raw cacao, it was handed to me freshly sliced from the tree with a machete while the distant sound of parrot calls echoed from somewhere in the deep green of Ecuador’s Amazon forest.
It sounds a little over dramatic, but that actually happened to me. I was 11 years old and touring the jungle with my family at the end of a 6 week service trip in Cuenca.
At the time though, I didn’t realize what a truly unique experience that was, nor was I aware of the amazing health benefits and sacred properties of cacao.
What Is Cacao?
Cacao is a plant native to Central and South America that has been used historically by the Aztecs and Mayans for medicinal and ritualistic purposes. Its scientific name Theobroma cacao actually means “food for the Gods” and it was believed to have been sent from the heavens as a gift to mankind.
Most cacao that you come by today has been processed and roasted in such a way that it loses most of its health and spiritual benefits. Ceremonial cacao however is cultivated and prepared in the traditional way so that it retains the spirit of cacao as well as its remedying properties so that it can be used in ceremony.
7 Benefits Of A Sacred Cacao Ceremony
There is a reason that cacao has been used medicinally and spiritually for almost 3000 years. This seemingly small bean has more to it than meets the eye.
1. Heart Opening
Cacao can open the heart and allow you to connect with yourself and others in a deeper, more loving way. Fear will be replaced with love and desire for good.
2. Enhances Meditation
Cacao enables you to connect with your inner spirit and wisdom, allowing for more profound meditation. It allows you to focus more on the present moment and its remedying properties can begin to work on your mind and soul.
3. Pathway To Creativity
Cacao can help build a bridge to inspiration, creativity and new ideas. You’ll find new meaning and purpose begin to flow with ease.
4. Mental Clarity
Cacao can help you find mental clarity and balance. You can be reminded of your talents, skills, creative ability and life purpose.
5. Energy
Cacao can grant you the energy you need for your day and throughout your life. You’ll find yourself able to skip the coffee, your cravings will diminish and you will be able to better accomplish your daily tasks.
6. Peace
Cacao can lift the burdens of life and the stresses of the day from your shoulders. You will find yourself more in tune with your positive side and more able to face difficulties and hardship.
7. Healing
Cacao can lead you to a healthier lifestyle in body and spirit. You will become aware of things that have been keeping you from living the life you love and receive strength in letting them go.
Creating Your Sacred Cacao Ceremony
There are group cacao ceremonies that you can attend where you gather with others to experience healing and connection. However, you can also create your own sacred cacao ceremony to have a more personal connection with your inner self. The preparation is simple.
Find or designate a sacred space where you feel best able to connect with your mind and spirit. Prepare the cacao the way you prefer it, whether that be in its bitter form, or with added spices and sweeteners.
Take time to meditate and live in the moment. Give gratitude for things you are thankful for. Focus on your intention for the ceremony, whether that be to begin your day positively, to search for healing, or to call for strength.
Drink the cacao slowly and let each sip permeate through your body. You may begin to feel it take effect immediately, or it may take some time. Listen to your body and mind and watch for the shift in energies. Focus on your intention and let the cacao do its job.
The Wonders Of Cacao
Taking the time to participate in a sacred cacao ceremony allows each and every one of these incredible benefits to flow through you and into your life. And the best part is that there is no wrong way to do it. Do what feels right to you and let the wonders of cacao do the rest.
Need some cacao to get you started? Try Cacao Bliss! We have partnered up with Danette May to formulate the most delicious and sacred cacao drink, made with the best quality superfoods all designed to highlight the powers of cacao and also fill your body with health, warmth and wellness. Just mix Cacao Bliss with some hot water and you’re ready to go.
And remember, we’re in this together.
Emilyn Gil is a 22 year old English Major at UVU. She started writing at age 6, and since then has won several awards including the Scholastic Art and Writing Gold Key and was featured in the Kolob Canyon Review in Cedar City. Aside from the written word, her other passions include performing in the occasional musical theater production, and playing piano, guitar, and ukulele. Emilyn currently resides in Orem, Utah with her husband Jorge. You can find more of her work online at emilyaddn.blogspot.com or on Instagram at @emilyncan.
