Cacao has been used for physical, mental, emotional and spiritual healing for thousands of years by the ancient traditions of the world. It has been especially common in Mayan, Aztec and other South American traditions as a part of their ceremonies and prayers.
Together we will share this ancient spiritual food and connect to our hearts through song, dance, meditation and more.
Your contributions help to ensure these programs remain accessible to all. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. Please reach out to info@sonicinstitute.com for assistance.
What is Cacao?
Cacao, the main ingredient in chocolate, is a superfood that has nourished humanity for thousands of years. Originally revered throughout the Americas with roots in the Amazonian basin, Cacao has spread worldwide due to its powerful physical, mental, emotional and spiritual benefits.
What are the benefits of Cacao?
Natural Mood Booster: Cacao stimulates the release of feel good hormones like phenylethylamine, which stimulates the nervous system to release dopamine and norepinephrine, mimicking feelings of love
Gentle Energy Booster: Theobromine, meaning "food of the gods" (from Theobroma cacao), is the primary bitter alkaloid in cacao and dark chocolate, offering a gentle, long-lasting energy boost.
Nutrient Rich: A great source of magnesium, iron, calcium, and fiber.
Rich in Antioxidants: Rich in flavanols, cacao neutralizes free radicals, reduces inflammation, improves blood flow, and enhances cardiovascular + brain health
About the Facilitators:
Adrian DiMatteo
(B.M. Eastman School of Music, 2012) is the founder of the Sonic Institute. He is an international performing and recording artist, author (Elements of Sound: A Full-Spectrum Exploration of Sound and Consciousness), music educator, app creator (Chord Atlas), and sound meditation facilitator with over 20 years’ experience in the music world. Adrian has toured and traveled extensively—exploring sound, language, musical culture and how they affect individual and collective wellbeing. Hundreds of students have graduated from Sound Facilitator Training programs and weekend retreats that Adrian regularly facilitates nationwide. To date, he has offered musical experiences to thousands of people in hospitals, hospices, elder care facilities, prisons and children’s centers.
Cassie Luzenski
is a multi-disciplinary artist, creating experiences through her training as a designer (B.A, in Creative Direction, Design), Sound Meditation Facilitator, Yoga teacher and Shamanic Reiki practitioner. With a deep passion for holistic well-being, spiritual studies and designing intentional spaces, Cassie has spent the past three years immersing herself in a variety of spiritual, cultural, and traditional practices with many elders and wisdom-keepers around the world. She is working to merge the world of art, music and healing.