Cacao: It’s not just for enjoyment

For ages, cacao has been a vital and sacred plant in various cultures worldwide. The Maya civilization considered cacao as a gift from the gods, while, in the Aztec culture, it was used as currency. Nowadays, cacao is celebrated as a spiritual nourishment, and it forms a part of many contemporary practices. As yogis, we’re always looking for ways to deepen our experience and to find a deeper connection to the world around us. Oftentimes, ritual can help us find that connection, this is where the cacao ceremony comes in.

Cacao was served as an essential beverage during ancient Mesoamerican events, as well as for social, religious and medicinal purposes. The process of brewing, fermenting and roasting cacao beans is ritualistic and in and of itself can provide an almost meditative experience. The intent of the cacao ritual itself is centered on merging the body with cacao's spiritual and physical powers to reach a higher state of consciousness. In today's world, cacao ceremonies form a vital part of many contemporary yoga practices and offer a way to nourish the body, mind and soul.  

Some modern healers cherish the almost psychoactive experience that cacao provides during ceremonial use. Though it doesn't produce a hallucinogenic effect, drinking cacao can create deep emotional and spiritual shifts. This can change the way you understand yourself, your practice, your spirituality and enhance your consciousness. The cacao ceremony experience includes a guided meditation process and is often accompanied by live music or other spiritual practices. Throughout the whole experience you’ll find yourself drawn toward introspection, reflection and personal transformation.  

Modern-day yogis use cacao as a way to get into a meditative state, allowing them to obtain a greater sense of awareness and deeper focus in asanas. When enjoyed before class, it helps to uplift the mood and shed away distractions. We’ve found that it enables a more centered and mindful practice when enjoyed before class.

Intrigued? At Razz, we’ve created a unique experience that combines the healing benefits of cacao with the mind-body connection of your yoga practice. Join us October 20th for Kula and Cacao, where you’ll join your community (kula) and sip cacao to ignite your heart’s true intention. After the cacao ceremony, you’ll move into a yin practice before relaxing into a blissful savasana.

Sign up for our Kula & Cacao Workshop happening Friday, Ocotber 20th at 6pm!