Through the ancient ritula of 'tea', Cassey inspires a deeper connection and understanding of 'self', a woman's cycle, movement and energy. Seeking an alternative to our leafy friend. Turn to cacao for a potent hit of magnesium, calcium, iron, a sharpened focus and energy boost. 

CM: In my opinion, the focus feels different. While a tea ceremony might be about mindfulness and appreciation of the tea itself, a cacao ceremony is more about inner exploration and healing. 
Cacao has some pretty fascinating properties. It's known for its ability to uplift mood and enhance emotional awareness, thanks to compounds like theobromine. So in a cacao ceremony, you might feel more of an activating experience or heightened sensitivity, which can lead to some profound insights and/or emotional release. 

Another big difference is the is the cultural background. Cacao revered for thousands of years in Central South America, where indigenous traditions often incorporate it into spiritual rituals and ceremonies. In a shamanic cacao ceremony we offer prayers and intentions into our medicine from our hearts. We honour the spirit of cacao and nature drawing on ancestral wisdom and profound healing. 

So, while both tea ceremonies and cacao ceremonies offer opportunities for connection and mindfulness, they each have their own flavour, so to speak. However both practices are about finding that moment of presence and connection. 

CM: Cacao is packed with nutrients like antioxidants, magnesium, calcium, iron, and vitamins which can have a positive impact on your physical health. These antioxidants help fight free in the body, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote overall well-being. Additionally, cacao contains compounds like the theobromine which can improve blood flow and cardiovascular health, as well as phenylethylamine, known as the 'love chemical', which can enhance mood and increase feelings of happiness and pleasure. 

One of the key hero benefits of a cacao ceremony is its ability to facilitate emotional healing and inner transformation. Cacao contains compounds that can stimulate the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which are associated with feelings of joy, relaxation, and emotional well-being. During a ceremony these effects can be amplified, leading to a deeper sense of connection with yourself and others, as well as profound insights into your thoughts, emotions and patterns of behaviour. 

The women who sit in ceremony with me say they experience a sense of clarity, release and empowerment as they journey inward and confront old wounds or limiting beliefs. They walk back into their lives feeling lighter and more inspired.  

CM: Cacao has a rich history with some fascinating facts that many might not know about. Among these is the traditional use of cacao among ancient cultures. 

In certain Mesoamerican cultures, such as the Maya and Aztec civilizations, cacao was consumed not only as a beverage but also as a stimulant before going into battle. The potent mixture of ground cacao beans mixed with water, spices and sometimes chilli peppers provided warriors with a boost of energy and mental alertness. It was believed to increase stamina and sharpen focus, making it an ideal drink for soldiers preparing for combat. 

Additionally, cacao was also used by indigenous women during childbirth. It was believed to have properties that could ease labor pains and provide the mother with strength and endurance during child birth. Theobromine, a compound found in cacao, has stimulant effects similar to caffeine but is milder, which might have helped women endure labor. 

I have a few favourite Ceremonial cacao brands I love to work with... 
 

• Sacred Earth 
• Nourish Hub
• Great Spirit 

CM: Starting the day with a cacao instead of coffee. Cacao has an activating and energising effect on the body giving energy without the crash so its a great alternative to coffee. I love to create a morning heart drop in ritual. Making my cacao is a part of this. I suggest to put on your favourite playlist, light a candle, burn incense and enjoy this slow, intentional practice. I share how I make my cacao on my instagram page, so come say hi. 

CM: I connect with my heart each morning and ask these questions... 
Where am I in my cycle? 
How am I feeling energetically? 
What do I need today? 

My routines and rituals very much depend on where I am at. I work very intentionally with my cycle and hormones. My movement increases during Follicular and ovulation phases and my meditation, journalling and self-care practices increase during my Luteal and Bleed phases. I love Yoga, breath work, walks in nature, waterfall visits, energy healing and my new JOY project of DJ-ing :) All of these help me relax and connect back to self. 

 

I gifted two of my friends a Rose, incense and hand written message in a beautiful card just to say 'I love you'.