Cacao and Mushrooms - Integrating altered state experiences using neuroscience and tradition
Schedule
Thu Mar 12 2026 at 08:00 am to 11:00 am
UTC+13:00Location
The Button Factory | Auckland, AU
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Join us for an immersive evening exploring the profound connections between ceremonial cacao and psychoactive mushrooms (such as psilocybin-containing varieties), blending cutting-edge neuroscience with ancient indigenous wisdom.This workshop delves into the shared and synergistic effects of cacao and psychedelics on the brain, consciousness, and well-being. You'll gain insights into how these plant medicines influence neurochemistry, promote neuroplasticity, and support health—while honoring their deep cultural and spiritual roots.
Highlights Include:
The Neuroscience of Cacao and Psilocybin — Dr. Corin Storkey (PhD in Medicinal Chemistry, CPAT therapist) shares the latest research on how cacao and psychedelics like psilocybin (and mescaline/huachuma) interact with the brain, both individually and in combination. Drawing from biochemistry, he bridges modern science with traditional cacao cosmovision, highlighting their potential for healing, expanded awareness, and personal growth. Dr. Storkey leads New Zealand's research program on Andean and Amazonian plant medicines, including maca and cacao, and brings a holistic perspective informed by his own journey overcoming chronic fatigue syndrome.
Indigenous Cosmovision and Relationship with Plant Medicine — Pamela Chipana, a native Peruvian of Andean descent and cultural educator, offers ancestral knowledge of traditional Peruvian medicinal plants. She shares the sacred perspective of cacao and other plant allies, emphasizing respect for indigenous communities, farmers, and the living relationship with these medicines. She will guide you through the cosmovision of cacao and how it can be used as an integrative tool for altered state experiences following ancestral beliefs and concepts.
Creating Your Unique Plant Medicine Ceremony — Raquel Minh, a Mexican-Vietnamese trauma-informed somatic facilitator, plant medicine guide, and yoga teacher based in Aotearoa New Zealand, guides participants in integrating modern and ancient approaches. With a background in Psychology (BA, GWU) and extensive certifications—including Trauma-Informed Integrative Somatic Facilitator Training (SomaPsych), Trauma-Informed Plant Medicine Facilitator Training (Atira Tan), and Psychedelic Integration Training—she specializes in nervous system regulation, altered states, psychedelic preparation/integration, and embodied practices. Raquel facilitates body-led, consent-based sessions that prioritize self-agency, empowerment, safety, and relational healing, drawing from indigenous-informed practices and a commitment to decolonizing wellbeing. She will help you design a personalized cacao based ritual to connect deeply with the plant’s energy, prepare for future journeys, and integrate experiences through somatic and trauma-sensitive methods.
Practical Elements:
-Share a nourishing cup of premium ceremonial cacao (provided by Seleno Health, New Zealand's specialist in organic, single-origin Peruvian cacao for altered state experiences).
-Participate in a somatic intention-setting practice to embody your learnings and create a meaningful ritual for future plant medicine experiences.
-Enjoy 10% off Seleno Health products available on the day.
-3 hour in-depth workshop, please respect the start and finish times and ensure you arrive in time to detach and drop in before we commence.
Historical Inspiration: We draw from the ancient traditions of Chavín de Huántar in Peru (circa 1200–400 BC), a major spiritual center where ceremonial cacao was combined with psychedelic plants like huachuma (San Pedro cactus) in shamanic initiations for profound spiritual awakening and transformation.
What to Expect: A supportive, trauma-informed space combining informative talks, cultural education, and embodied practice. Leave with deeper understanding of plant medicine's science and ritual, tools for personal integration, and inspiration for mindful engagement.
What to Bring:
-Notebook and pen
-Water bottle
-Comfortable clothing for gentle somatic movement
-An open mind and heart
Important Notes & Contraindications: This is an educational and ceremonial experience focused on cacao—no consumption of psychoactive mushrooms occurs. Discussions of psilocybin and related psychedelics are for informational purposes only.
Cacao is generally safe but avoid if you have a known allergy to chocolate/cacao, are taking MAO inhibitors, or have certain cardiovascular conditions. Consult a healthcare provider if pregnant, on medications, or unsure. Those with a history of serious mental health conditions (e.g., schizophrenia) should approach these topics mindfully and seek professional advice for any personal practices.
Secure your spot for this unique gathering of science, tradition, heart-opening ceremony, and embodied wisdom! Limited spaces—book early.
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Where is it happening?
The Button Factory, 2 Abbey Street,Auckland, New ZealandEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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