If you’re new to the world of cacao ceremonies, the process can seem mysterious. Fortunately, the steps are easy to follow, and it’s important to prepare in advance so that you’re ready to properly enjoy your first ceremonial experience with cacao. Here are some tips to get you started with this ancient and powerful tradition.
Cacao ceremony is a traditional Mesoamerican ritual that includes drinking cacao. It’s often led by a shaman or medicine man, and those participating in the ceremony typically drink the cacao while sitting in a circle. These reflections typically revolve around memories of the person’s life and how they related to his or her community. Participants share what they hope the ceremony will accomplish, including healing. Drinking a cup of water following drinking cacao can be thought of as a sort of cleanse. In some ceremonies, people may enter an altered state of consciousness called a dream time. After they have sung sacred songs and drummed to the beat, they enter into a hypnotic state. Memories of the past, memories that have been forgotten, sometimes return.
For some, participating in a cacao ceremony provides the chance to connect with nature and the elements. For others, it is simply a way to relax and find inner peace. Others connect with their ancestors through it or use it to connect with a higher power. There are some things you should know before participating in a cacao ceremony. First, listen to when your body tells you to stop. It can be difficult to determine when this happens, since each person’s tolerance level varies. Second, always introduce new foods slowly so as not to upset your stomach. Make sure that before you begin the ceremony you have everything ready so that your attention can be fully focused on the experience.
Cacao ceremonies are beautiful ways of connecting with yourself and others. The first step is to find a reputable source of cacao. As soon as you have your cacao, you will need to clean it, either by running it underwater or by smudging it. As soon as your cacao has been cleansed, you will need to set an intention for your ceremony. You may wish to set an intention for the day, week, month, or year ahead. It may also be helpful to let go of what is no longer serving you. Brew the cacao with hot water in a large mug until frothy and serve in small cups to share around the circle when you are ready. When everyone has finished their cups of frothy goodness, take some time for some mindful conversation about how they feel after drinking.
If you want to prepare for a cacao ceremony, you can do the following things: read about the history and origins of the practice, learn about the different ceremonial traditions, and find out what to expect during and after the ceremony. It may also be a good idea to meditate or do some light yoga to help calm your nerves, and be sure to drink plenty of water and eat a light meal before the ceremony. If you have any concerns about the effect of cacao on your health, make sure to talk with your doctor before taking part in this practice. They are made from organic cocoa beans that are sustainably grown by workers who are fairly compensated.
You can benefit from a cacao ceremony whether you are down to your last bit of energy or just looking for some peace. Contact us if you would like more information about how to prepare for a cacao ceremony!
main photo: pexels.com/ROMAN ODINTSOV
