Deep in the heart of Piedmont, Italy, lies a realm that has profoundly shaped my understanding of cacao and life itself. This transformative experience was not just a journey of physical travel, but a profound exploration into ancient traditions, vibrant energies, and deep self-discovery.
Immersed in the serene and rustic beauty of Piedmont, I embarked on a digital detox, leaving behind the constant noise of the everyday world - a real chance to switch off, fully rest and tune in to myself. Surrounded by nature, I found myself on a unique journey: more than just a holiday; this was a soul retreat, a much-needed holiday for my spirit.
Every day began with meditation, grounding me and preparing me for incoming insight and connection. The nourishing food, abstention from alcohol and pure spring water straight from the mountains took care of my body, allowing me to fill my cup in ways I hadn't realised were possible. Amongst likeminded individuals and other healers, I truly felt a connection to something deeper.
The spiritual workshops I participated in were enlightening. Each day, I pulled cards for myself, uncovering layers of my soul like an onion, getting to the core of my being. This introspective practice revealed stories and messages that I needed to hear, allowing me to let go spiritually and move on from past burdens.
A surreal and funny moment was when a wild pine marten cheekily stole my shoes - bringing a bit of lightness and laughter to the whole experience!
Cacao took on new meaning during this journey. I learned even more about its sacred qualities and its power to connect us to our inner selves. The energy of cacao is both vibrant, creative and calming, a perfect companion for travelling inwards and exploring our deepest desires and fears.
Through this immersion, I felt my own energy more clearly and understood what my soul needed. It was a time of profound healing, rest, and re-energizing. The parallels between this experience and my business were striking; both require a deep connection to oneself and a dedication to nurturing growth and transformation.
This journey brought me back to me, away from the busy demands of everyday life. It was a reminder of the importance of soul-nourishing experiences and the power of nature to heal and rejuvenate us. As I return to my work with my beautiful, soul-led business Ashmira Botanica, I carry with me the lessons learned and the deepened connection to the energy of cacao.
