Twisty Twirly Energy Medicine
Cacao & Cacao Ceremonies
The Mayan and Inca tribes have worked with Mama Cacao, known as "The Food of the Gods" for centuries, knowing how incredible her gifts are. When drinking Cacao as medicine, her bitter taste flows straight to our hearts, allowing for a feeling of deep relaxation, openness and connection to whatever we are doing whether that be meditation, yoga, dance or drumming, cacao will help us dive deep, allowing our journey to unfold joyfully.
There is an Inca prophecy that states - "When the medicine of the Cacao tree that grows beneath the low lying mountains enters the wider field of humanity, we will know that we are in the midst of an awakening".
I've been drinking a delicious cup of cacao every day for about 5 years, always amazed at how my heart is oftened, opened and allowed to feel all the myriad emotions we are subject to as humans, yet with more compassion for myself and all my companions on this life journey. A gentle connection through the practice of gratitude, unending gratitude for all the eperiences of life, however tragic and difficult it may be at times, there is always Mama Cacao to hold me, ground me and nourish me.
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And you can purchase yours here in various quantities, always ceremonial grade and easy to prepare.
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A Cacao ceremony is a lovely addition to any ceremony be it a drum circle, kirtan, conscious dance, whatever might be enhanced by the full involvement of the heart. I am available to hold this space for your events and special days, coming equipped with delicious heart opening cacao medicine and heartfelt prayers and songs. Please do get in touch if I can be of service to Mama Cacao at your event.
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Upcoming Cacao Ceremonies can be found here
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Personally I use a pestle and mortar to smash the chunks to crumbs, and melt it gently in a little water. I feel a connection to the ancient women who for millenia have prepared their medicine, singing soft prayers to Mama Cacao, giving thanks to all who have brought this sacred plant to me, right here and now.
I add enough water to make 2 cups for myself and my husband and I cook gently stirring continuously without boiling for 15-20 minutes. Pour and sweeten to taste with natural sweetener. You can say your own thankyous :)
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Contraindications
One dose of cacao is 20g and this may be considered subjective and not fixed.
* If you are on anti-depressants, SSRI's or other medication, have a heart condition or are pregnant : Be aware that the theobromine in cacao is a vasodilator: it increases the heart rate and lowers the blood pressure, so you may prefer a lower dose.
* If you have low blood pressure you may prefer a lower dose or choose not to take it as appropriate for your condition.
* If you are on MAOI antidepressants, cacao (and all forms of chocolate) is contraindicated as it contains tyramine
* If you are taking 5-htp (5-Hydroxytryptophan) it is advisable to take a lower dose.
* If you are taking St. John's Wort it is advised to not take it for a few days before or after the cacao.
* If you are epileptic a high doses of cacao may increase the risk of seizures.
* If you are taking anti-psychotic medication cacao is contraindicated.
* Some people are very sensitive or even allergic to theobromine and it may trigger headaches or migraines. It is advisable to take a lower dose or choose not to take it.
* Drinking your choice of fresh water is advisable for everyone who drinks cacao.
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*** DISCLAIMER - PLEASE NOTE THAT YOU ARE ULTIMATELY RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN HEALTH AND WHATEVER YOU CHOOSE TO CONSUME IS ALWAYS YOUR CHOICE. CACAO IS NOT SUITABLE FOR EVERYONE AND ONLY YOU CAN MAKE THAT DECISION***
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