Cacao & Magic Mushrooms | Science & Ritual with Seleno Health and Raquel Minh

Seleno Health returns to Kanuka Yoga Space to share the magic of plant medicine.

Cacao and psychoactive mushrooms both have a rich history in Mesoamerica. Learn more about the indigenous perspective of being in relationship with plant medicine, the neuroscience of cacao and psilocybin, and integrate ancient and modern approaches to create your own embodied ritual for journeying.

Cacao & Mushrooms

The Science & Ritual

When - Sunday, 7th of September

Time - 1pm - 3pm

With - Seleno Health & Raquel Minh

Where - Kanuka Yoga Space

Early Bird (August 9th) - $40 per person

Full Price - $50 per person

Includes a sample of our ceremonial cacao and receive 10% off Seleno Health products on the day.

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Six Month pass holders receive 20% Off this workshop!

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What to Expect

Participants will engage in a dynamic blend of science, cultural education, and embodied practice. Expect a supportive, trauma-informed environment where you can deepen your understanding of plant medicine and its applications. The workshop includes:

• Informative talks on the science and cultural significance of cacao and mushrooms.

• A guide of how to create a cacao ritual to connect with the plant’s energy.

• A somatic practice to integrate your learning and prepare for future plant medicine experiences.

The Neuroscience of Cacao and Psilocybin: Dr. Corin Storkey will explain how cacao and psychedelics like mesculin and psilocybin interact with the brain, both individually and synergistically, drawing on the latest research to illuminate their effects on health and consciousness. He will also discuss the traditional uses and integrate concepts of cacao cosmovision with its biochemistry and neuroplastic properties. 

Pamela will share the cosmovision of cacao and indigenous perspective of being in relationship with plant medicine. 

Raquel will guide you to integrate modern and ancient approaches to create a plant medicine ceremony that is unique to you. Join us for this gathering to learn more about the science and ritual of cacao and mushrooms, share a cup of cacao, and leave with a somatic intention setting practice for the next time you journey with plant medicine.

Historical Context: Discover the ancient practices of the Chavín de Huantar temple in Peru (1200–400 BC), where ceremonial cacao and psychedelic plants like huachuma were used for shamanic initiation and spiritual awakening.

Practical Experience: Share a cup of ceremonial cacao, learn a somatic intention-setting practice, and receive a sample of Seleno Health’s ceremonial cacao. Plus, enjoy 10% off Seleno Health products on the day..

What to Bring:

A notebook and pen for taking notes.

A water bottle and comfortable clothing for the somatic practice.

An open mind and heart to engage with the teachings and ceremony.

History

The ancient temple of Chavín de Huantar in Peru was a spiritual epicenter from 1200–400 BC, where prospective priests underwent intense sensory and spiritual initiations. These rituals often involved consuming ceremonial cacao mixed with psychedelic plants to facilitate profound spiritual awakenings. This workshop draws on these ancient traditions, combining them with modern scientific insights to explore cacao’s role in spiritual and health practices.

Contraindications

Cacao: Avoid if you have a known allergy to cacao or chocolate, or are taking MAO inhibitors. Consult a healthcare provider if unsure. Please advise if you are pregnant or taking any medications before attending to confirm if the event is suitable for you. 

Psilocybin (Discussion Only): This workshop does not involve the consumption of psychoactive mushrooms. Discussions are educational only, focusing on their historical and scientific context. Participants with a history of mental health conditions (e.g., schizophrenia, severe anxiety) should approach plant medicine topics mindfully and consult a professional before engaging in related practices outside the workshop.

General: If you have cardiovascular issues, low blood pressure, or are sensitive to stimulants, consult a doctor before consuming ceremonial cacao.

About Dr Corin Storkey

Dr Corin Storkey (PhD – Med Chem) has over 15 years of academic and research experience, specialising in medicinal antioxidant chemistry, oxidative diseases, cellular protection and health.

He has previously struggled with and overcome chronic fatigue syndrome and promotes an integrative and holistic approach to managing chronic health conditions.

He currently leads the New Zealand based Maca and cacao research program that studies Andean and Amazonian plant medicines and their bioactives.

About Pamela

Pamela is a native Peruvian of Andean descent, cultural educator who shares ancestral knowledge of traditional Peruvian medicinal plants and Andean/ Amazonian cosmovision. She has a passion to bring the sacred plant knowledge of her people to the world and promoting respect and acknowledgement to the indigenous farmers and communities that produce them.