I am a visual artist and empath who is now dedicating time to the Tarot and my spiritual practice.

 I have over fifteen years of experience studying and reading the Tarot.
In that time, I have explored different facets of spiritual practices and beliefs from Eastern Philosophy (Hindu, Buddhist, Taoism), Astrology, Esotericism, Jungian Theory, Occult
systems, and Witchcraft. These influences have shaped my perspective on how I view the inner and outer realms.

 I’m open to various kinds of readings from dream interpretations, personal path work, and inner spiritual guidance readings.

 “I’m currently exploring the esoterics of the tarot.
For me, this is a new path of revelation but in the deeper realm of unraveling the secrets and mysteries of what is yet to be discovered within the tarot.”

I have been always drawn to the magic of cooking and creating in the kitchen. While staying at home with my three little kids I began experimenting in my own kitchen exploring foods that were both delicious and nourishing, wholesome for our bodies without compromising flavor and textures. I have always been an enthusiast of minimizing added sugars and generally using food as medicine and fuel. This led me to multiple online courses and even more experiments in my kitchen.

 Following some of my interests I came across learning about artisanal chocolate and went deeply into this theme perfecting my skills at sourcing beans, tempering, recipe formulation and at the same time learning to work with professional chocolate stone grinders. Artisanal chocolate naturally led me to its source – Cacao and ceremonial cacao paste.

I was fascinated by the rich history and traditions of Cacao all entwined with a bit of mysticism and a strong spiritual ground. I began my practices to get acquainted to this Heart Opening medicine used by centuries to improve health, uplift, increase vitality, gather people for connection and last but not least offer an amazing tool for self exploration, mindfulness and reflection.

 Since then I mainly focused on handcrafting my own cacao blends, choosing the origins I enjoyed working with, and also guiding Cacao Gatherings to allow for  moments of pause, stillness, openness.

 I am on a mission to spread the word about cacao and give people more tools for balancing their body and mind, harmonizing from the inside out and creating a community. My company, Cacao Space, is offering handcrafted stone ground cacao paste made with one simple ingredient and in small batches. I also host Cacao Ceremonies that are always theme based and include gentle guided meditation and sharing circle.

Jess Bates, 63, dedicated to encouraging stability, community, and non-judgemental awareness into daily life.

Jess is a master metalsmith, painter, and artisan. She teaches classes in meditation, urban gardening, drawing & painting, and hosts a small cohousing community in Ashland.

www.tranquilitytoday.com

Juan, Aztec Sundancer, has been pouring community lodges for the last 12 years