Join me for this wholesome gathering working with the plant medicine Cacao. A slow, calm space for self reflection, healing and connection

Winter solstice falls on the shortest day of the year, a time when half of the earth is tilted the farthest away from the sun. This happens around the 21st of December each year. It has been celebrated in Britain for thousands of years, marking the transition from darkness to returning light and official start of winter in Britain.

Creating ceremony around seasonal shifts is an important way for us to maintain connection with the earth and our own cyclical nature. We'll be loosely exploring themes of renewal, rebirth, meaning and hope, whilst honouring both the dark and the light - the duality we as humans navigate.

Cacao will be our plant ally, taking us into our hearts, sharing wisdom and her unique healing energy.

- About Cacao and Ritual -

Seeds from the Theobroma Cacao tree are the primary ingredient in many chocolate products commonly sold all over the world. Knowledge of the spiritual and healing aspects of this plant, however, is limited within our mainstream culture in the west.

Ancient civilisations such as the Olmecs, Aztecs and the Mayans, held Cacao in high regard - some even using Cacao seeds as currency. They acknowledged the heart opening quality of Cacao and ritually ingested a drink with ground Cacao seeds as the base.

When drank ritually, this wonderful plant can support us in:

Opening our hearts

Increasing energy / focus / concentration

Connecting with our feelings and needs / emotional release

Receiving clarity on life

More ease with creative flow; joy, happiness and calm

Or the effects may be subtle..

I suggest coming into the space with curiosity, openness and flexibility as each persons experience can differ.

- What to expect -

The gathering begins with intentions and prayer to open the space, you'll be smudged using plant smoke - Frankincense/Resin/PaloSanto/Sage etc. - to purify any energy not in harmony with your wellbeing.

We'll drink Cacao together, share healing songs and i'll lead a guided meditation journey to connect with the spirit of Cacao. There will also be grounding practices and possible space for journalling and sharing reflections /intentions with the group. Speaking things out within a friendly supportive group, feeling seen and heard, can be very healing and uplifting! Each gathering is guided intuitively and may flow slightly differently to another.

- Potential contraindications -

Ceremonial amounts (42g) of Cacao are not recommended if you:

Are taking anti depressants - SSRI or MAOI based

Have a serious heart condition, very high blood pressure or epilepsy - Cacao is a vasodilator and increases the heart rate

For pregnant and breastfeeding women a smaller amount is reccomended due to the stimulating nature of this plant

(If any of the above apply to you, you are welcome to join us and simply avoid Cacao or have a smaller amount. Please check with your healthcare practitioner if you have concerns - Any questions regarding contraindications get in touch and we can discuss your personal situation)

Notes:

- If you have an allergy to almonds please let me know as i use almond milk in the Cacao drink. (I'll use a different plant based milk to accommodate you if needed)

-Ensure you are hydrated beforehand and drink plenty of water after. I'll provide water during the gathering but feel free to bring your own to have on hand

-I suggest avoiding other strong Cacao products or caffeine/coffee on the day due to potential overstimulation and nausea

-The Cacao drink is vegan and sweetened with date syrup

- Please bring -

A yoga mat and cusion/blanket if possible - there are a some available in the space but to make sure you are comortable you're welcome to bring your own

- Optional -

A journal and pen for any notes you wish to take

An offering for Cacao - This can be anything from dried or fresh herbs, flower/s, crystals, stones, tobacco, shells. I'll find a spot in nature after the gathering to offer them to Cacao, the land and spirits. Gifting something back to the earth can be a beautiful way to cultivate a more intimate and reverent connection with mother nature

Location

Earthlings - The healing Cafe

94 Buckingham St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 5QR

(Parking available on surrounding streets)

Please arrive a little before 1pm to get settled in the space together.

- Financial transparency -

Your contribution covers venue hire, travel costs, Ceremonial Cacao/drink ingredients, space decoration, my time during event and preparation before/after..

In giving payment you are supporting me to offer these events; helping more people to receive this wonderful heart medicine and the joy of gathering with others in community.

(Two low-income tickets are available for those who need them - option to purchase these will be available at checkout).

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- Cacao Circle facilitator -

I'm a visual artist and sacred

Description supplied by the event organiser.