Empowering Connection – How Women Can Bond Through Ceremonial Cacao
There is a delightful little ancient tradition that has been rediscovered in recent years, providing women with a unique opportunity to connect on a deeper level: ceremonial Cacao. Connection is a high priority of mine, to myself and others, so if like me you’re in the market for fun and unique ways to cultivate connection then I really think you’ll take a lot from this article (in the least arrogant sounding way possible). This article explores how women can come together, share experiences, and build strong bonds through the sacred practice of ceremonial Cacao. We will also explore Cacao’s natural health benefits and what you’ll likely experience through trying this magical superfood.
Cacao, the source of chocolate, has been cultivated and consumed for thousands of years by indigenous communities in Central and South America. Traditionally, Cacao was used in sacred rituals and ceremonies to connect with the divine, foster unity, and strengthen community bonds. In recent times, ceremonial Cacao has gained popularity as a holistic tool for healing, meditation, and personal growth. While it shares some similarities with the more commonly consumed cocoa or chocolate, ceremonial Cacao is often prepared and consumed differently, and it is believed by some to offer unique health benefits. It's important to note that the scientific research on ceremonial Cacao specifically is limited, so many of the claimed benefits are anecdotal and based on traditional knowledge.
Connecting with Ceremonial Cacao
Cacao ceremonies can be seen as a celebration of the divine feminine. Women gather to honour their strength, resilience, and intuition. These ceremonies encourage self-acceptance and self-love, fostering a sense of empowerment that extends into all aspects of life. Ceremonial Cacao is the ideal drink for this. Cacao provides a natural energy surge without the subsequent crashes typical of contemporary stimulants. Engaging in a ceremonial cacao experience clears the mental fog, sharpening focus and concentration. It also facilitates a deeper connection with one's heart, thereby easing the pathways to self-expression, creativity, and enhanced interpersonal connections, making these pursuits both more accessible and enjoyable. Ceremonial Cacao is not your typical hot chocolate; it is a pure, unprocessed form of Cacao that retains its natural healing properties. When prepared and consumed with intention, it can facilitate profound emotional and spiritual experiences.
Here are some ways in which women can harness the power of Ceremonial Cacao to bond and grow together:
Setting Intentions: Ceremonial Cacao ceremonies typically begin with participants setting their intentions for the gathering. This practice encourages women to reflect on what they hope to achieve individually and collectively. Sharing these intentions creates a sense of vulnerability and openness, fostering connection from the outset.
Heart-Opening Properties: Cacao contains the compounds theobromine and phenylethylamine, which are known to promote feelings of love and joy. Consuming ceremonial Cacao in a group setting can amplify these effects, allowing women to connect on a heart level and share a genuine sense of happiness. I’ve experienced this first hand, it’s very powerful.
Mindfulness and Presence: Ceremonial Cacao encourages participants to be fully present in the moment. By savouring each sip and focusing on the sensory experience, women can let go of distractions and enter a state of mindfulness together. This shared presence deepens their connection and creates a safe space for vulnerability.
Emotional Release: Cacao has the ability to release pent-up emotions and blockages. In a supportive ceremonial setting, women may find themselves experiencing a cathartic release of emotions, which can lead to greater understanding and empathy among the group.
Sharing Stories and Insights: As the Cacao ceremony unfolds, women may be inspired to share their thoughts, feelings, and insights with one another. This open exchange of ideas and personal experiences can lead to profound bonding and the discovery of common ground.
Creating Ritual: Ceremonial Cacao provides the opportunity to create a shared ritual that can become a regular practice. Gathering together to drink Cacao and connect can become a cherished tradition that strengthens the bonds among women.
My Personal Experience with Ceremonial Cacao
The active ingredient present in Cacao, theobromine, translates to “Food of the Gods”. It is renowned for opening ones heart and enabling us to harness connection to ourselves or if in shared spaces, with others. When I was on a search for this connection back in 2022, I had no idea just how strong a connection I would make through ceremonial Cacao. Due to the current affairs of the lock downs, and how a lot of our connections were destroyed during that time, I did a lot of research on ways to keep my vibration high, expanding my consciousness, and ways to keep my energy up. I came across Cacao through this research and a couple of people I knew recommended I try it so I bought a standard bag of ‘Organic Cacao’ from a health food shop (not ceremonial grade Cacao). I then started searching for Cacao ceremonies online and via Instagram, and I was already purchasing goods from Ancient Purity at the time but through my digging I came across a woman, through Ancient Purity’s connections, who facilitates women’s circles incorporating ceremonial Cacao. I reached out to her to enquire about her circles and before I knew it I was signed up for an online circle with her and a unisex circle at Ancient Purity where I would meet my gorgeous new friend, Gemma, for the first time.
Gemma sent me a ceremonial dose of Cacao (Gemma is a Keith’s Cacao practitioner), around 30g, in preparation for our online circle and all necessary instructions on how to make a great tasting cup of Ceremonial Cacao! The whole experience, setting intentions at the beginning of the women’s circle, opening space with other women, drinking Cacao together, sharing experiences and challenges with others and being seen, heard and supported in a way I had never truly experienced before, it blew my heart open and sent me so far into myself, creative ideas I would never have had the courage to pursue before started flowing through me and I developed a new level of compassion for myself, which completely sent me on that inner enquiry I always knew I wanted to take, but never quite had the courage or the know-how. Gemma’s support did not end there.
She and I would then embark on a journey together, mainly over social media and messaging at first, but then I got to meet my new friend finally, in person, at the unisex circle held at Ancient Purity in May 2022. And what an incredible first meeting it was. Instantly a connection between us through our previous communications but also over ceremonial Cacao once more. This evening was also a very cathartic experience, releasing many emotions once more and even more bonding through ceremony with wonderful, vulnerable souls (Ancient Purity’s very own Tom included in this!). This would only deepen my connection with Gemma, whom I’m so thrilled to be able to now call one of my closest friends.
Since these ceremonies I also summoned some bravery to attend more women’s circles on my own a little closer to home (as Dover is a little far from Essex!) where I would again meet more astonishingly supportive women and grow a community of like-minded humans to journey alongside. I owe these bonds to these amazing humans to Ceremonial Cacao, and I am constantly evolving because of it. In fact I now even host my own women’s circles (all of which Gemma has also attended!); courage that surfaced due to this love and support from these connections, and the heart expanding medicine that is ceremonial Cacao.
This article focuses mainly on women healing with other women, however I have attended unisex Cacao ceremonies with my husband and we often have our own ceremonies together at home with Keith's Cacao which are always incredibly special, vulnerable and create deeper, more meaningful connection. Therefore ceremonial Cacao of course is not limited to women only! I have had profound ceremonial experiences with men too that have also been very meaningful. Due to my enthusiasm of Cacao, even my Mum purchased it, tried it, absolutely loved it and is now embarking on her own inner journey (better late than never) with Cacao as a companion.
It can be challenging to find deep connections with others in modern society but the ancient practice of ceremonial Cacao offers us a powerful tool for bonding, healing, and personal growth. Gemma said to me, Cacao “takes us to the door, but not really through it” – it’s up to us to open these doors so by setting intentions, opening our hearts, practicing mindfulness, and sharing our stories, we can create a sacred space where true connection and understanding can flourish. Ceremonial Cacao ceremonies provide an opportunity for women in particular (in my case) to come together, support one another, and empower themselves through the magic of Cacao. So, gather your sisters, brew a pot of ceremonial Cacao, and embark on a journey of connection, healing, and transformation together.
The Health Benefits of Ceremonial Cacao
Sipping cacao in the company of other women isn't just about enjoying a delicious and nutritious drink; it's a powerful ritual of connection, healing, and empowerment. The age-old tradition of gathering over cacao is being rekindled in the modern world, providing women with a space to share, heal, and grow together. As women continue to embrace the beauty of female bonding over a cup of cacao, they discover the immense strength that lies in their collective unity, fostering deeper connections and lasting friendships. Aside from bonding, Cacao has incredible health benefits! Here are some of the potential experiences associated with Ceremonial Cacao:
Mood Enhancement: Ceremonial Cacao contains compounds that may boost mood and promote a sense of well-being. These include theobromine, a mild stimulant, and phenylethylamine, a compound sometimes referred to as the "love chemical" for its potential to enhance feelings of happiness and pleasure. Thus ladies (and men!), making Cacao a GREAT aphrodisiac. Thank me later.
Heart Health: Cocoa contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants that may have a positive impact on heart health. Regular consumption of cocoa has been associated with improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. These benefits are also thought to apply to ceremonial Cacao.
Improved Focus and Concentration: The moderate caffeine content in ceremonial Cacao can provide a mild energy boost and improve mental alertness and concentration. Theobromine, another compound found in Cacao, may also contribute to this effect.
Antioxidant Properties: Ceremonial Cacao is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants are known to have potential anti-aging effects and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Emotional Healing and Spiritual Insights: Ceremonial Cacao is often used in rituals and ceremonies as a tool for emotional healing, self-reflection, and accessing deeper states of consciousness. While these effects are highly subjective and not scientifically proven, some individuals report profound spiritual experiences during ceremonial Cacao ceremonies.
Enhanced Creativity: Some people believe that ceremonial Cacao can stimulate creativity and provide mental clarity, which can be particularly beneficial for artists, writers, and other creative individuals.
Improved Digestion: Ceremonial Cacao is typically less processed than commercial chocolate, which means it retains more of its natural nutrients, including fibre. This fibre may support healthy digestion.
Additionally, the health benefits mentioned above are generally associated with pure, unprocessed Cacao, so ceremonial Cacao preparations with minimal additives or sweeteners are more likely to provide these benefits. As with any dietary change or supplement, it's advisable to do your own research before incorporating ceremonial Cacao into your routine, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications. Individual responses to Cacao can vary, and some people may be more sensitive to its effects than others. It's important to consume Ceremonial Cacao in moderation, as excessive intake can lead to side effects like jitteriness and digestive discomfort due to its caffeine and theobromine content. I once had way too much Cacao at a circle, probably around 40g! – my digestive system did not thank me! So follow a phrase that's all over Ancient Purity... Start low and see how you go, we are all ascending.
