A Cacao Journey: a 5 week dieta
Florencia Fridman was my guide during a 5-week Caco dieta in the summer of last year.
Exploring the physical, emotional and spiritual, Florencia shared the history, ritual and fundamentals of ceremonial Cacao. Having received her teachings and guidance from Nana Marina Cruz, a Mayan wisdom keeper from the T’zutujil community, I was able to get a glimpse into the world of Cacao and how to practice with respect in this sacred culture.
To say that I enjoyed this is an understatement but in the same breath it provided a container for all the lows of 2020 too. When practising with Cacao it is important to give thanks to the elders and spirit of Cacao “for all that we are, all that we have, all that we need” and to set an intention, which can be followed by meditation or breathwork in the spirit of your chosen intention. During the 5 weeks, we were encouraged to journal our experience each day, including the recipe you used, which I’m so glad I did - it was an eye-opener to see how many ‘aha’ moments that happened over time. Practising with Cacao allows you to find a moment to settle into your own intuition to answer the questions you hold in your mind by connecting to your heart. It opens up an opportunity for you to process whatever is coming up for you.
Cacao is known as a heart opener. A soothing medicine which evokes a loving disposition. I found it opened the door to my creativity and deepened my meditative state. The science behind the fruit of cacao supports the reports of better sleep - it is a plentiful source of magnesium. Most of us are deficient in magnesium and an increase in your system can help your muscles relax and support a night of more peaceful sleep.
Cacao also increases feelings of happiness, peace and energy - which means I barely drink coffee now! Cacao provides energy without the inevitable jitters of caffeine. This is why I prefer to have cacao in the morning. Evening ceremonies mean I won’t sleep for hours! Having said that, everyone is different and learning what works for you is part of the journey.
‘Theobromine, a compound similar to caffeine (but about 10 times less potent) is an active stimulant found in cacao that energizes the body and awakens the mind.’ ~ Cacao Laboratory
Cacao contains Anandamide, widely known as the “bliss molecule” originating from the Sanskrit word “ananda,” which translates to “bliss” or “joy.” It’s a neurotransmitter that is produced naturally in the body after exercise - otherwise known as an endorphin. Phenethylamine (PEA) is also present, the chemical released in the brain when we fall in love. There are so many benefits to this superfood or as the Mayans call it ‘Food of the Gods’.
Reciprocity was a key theme in our learning and gives plenty of food for thought. The simple philosophy of giving back where you’ve taken. I believe in reciprocity so how can I be of service in a way that feels true to me? It’s a question I explore each time I practice. Whether it’s through breathing life into the legacy by learning about the culture and history or making sure that I’m buying Cacao from a responsible supplier who works closely with the tribes in a sustainable process that is mutually beneficial. I recently listened to a conversation with the Brooklyn based artist, Caro, who said she gives back to plants by painting them. Playful creativity and connection are closely linked to the essence of Cacao after all!
Exploring the Maya Tz’utujil connection to cacao as a sacred plant medicine was an inspiring pleasure so thank you to Florencia and the elders of the T’zutujil community for sharing your wisdom!
To learn more see Florencia’s documentary here.
(UK cacao supplier: Forever Cacao)
Photography: Alex Overhiser