By Jennifer Johnson, Elations Health TEA Jan 05, 2023 7:33pm
Photo: Courtesy of Elation Health TEA
As a dedicated tea enthusiast; you have to know that drinking tea is much more than just pouring hot water over a tea bag. It is a presence practice; that should be done daily. Tea drinking can be used as a great way to come back to center. I really enjoy the everyday ritual of tea. Why? because it helps me feel more present. It is often used as a gateway to create space for you to reach a new level of intention, reflection and mindfulness. Even before Elations Health TEA; drinking tea was a key component in my mindfulness ritual.
"A tea ritual is a ritualized, ceremonial way of preparing and drinking tea. Tea rituals, are common in China, Korea and Japan. But you can also find traditional tea drinking culture outside of Asia, with Millennials in the U.K.; and right here in the U.S.A. growing a flourishing tea culture of our own."
Photo: Courtesy of Elations Health TEA
How to Create a Tea Ritual?
Creating a place of simplicity and refuge within our daily lives can be essential for our health and well-being. Here are some tips and advice that you can use to start a tea ritual yourself.
Choose your favorite mug or tea brewing set, preferably one that has meaning for you. I like to use a mug with a statement on it; like an affirmation. Such as " Its already yours " signed "The Universe". Affirmations can help you challenge and over come negative thoughts; and change them into positive ones.
Next, choose your tea. Keep it in a special container, one that is visually appealing. It’s also important to make sure you understand how to brew your chosen tea blend to ensure optimal flavor. Then, design your space and set aside the time.
You’ll want to plan for a 30-minute or more break, undisturbed.
You will need a spot that is comfortable, nurturing, and supportive to sit in to drink your tea.
Decide how you want to spend this time in a mindful way. Simply sipping? journaling? With music? Reading? Meditation? Prayer?; Or just being present.
When Is the Right Time to Have a Tea Ritual?
This depends on the right time of the day that works best for you. For me; the morning
is one of the best times of the day for my tea ritual because its the start of my day. I like to create the vibe and intent over my day before it starts.
However; I also enjoy an afternoon energy boost tea ritual. While also drinking herbal teas before bedtime. A nighttime tea ritual may include options for winding down and releasing stress before bed. Teas with passion flower, chamomile, and lavender can help reduce anxiety, stress, and insomnia.
Just imagine the best time of the day to connect with yourself and your environment. Being present in the moment. It really is that simple.
Tea Ritual Tips to Engage Your Five Senses Include:
Get Cozy! Select the seating or clothing that will make you feel the most relaxed.
Look at your teas appearance. Watch the tea leaves unravel in your cup, and the colors change while its steeping.
Smell your cup and notice all the aromas.
Light your favorite candles or incense.
Creating a mood playlist of go-to songs that help you wind down.
Touch the cup to your lips and notice the warmth and texture.
As you take the first sip, really taste it -- all the flavors.
Give yourself a moment to sink into a place of deep gratitude and elation.
Consider this a reminder to drink your tea as a mindfulness practice to help you land in your body, and be present in the moment.
I Encourage you to create your own tea rituals at home or in the office. Tea is a self-care indulgence that’s affordable with countless health benefits. Tea rituals remind us to not let our busy minds run the show.
So take a sip, indulge an always remember to take care of YOU first.
Jennifer Johnson is the founder of the tea brand Elations Health TEA, which promotes integrating tea to support healthy lifestyle changes. She’s also a serial entrepreneur by day and tea enthusiast by night, who promotes and studies tea and its many health benefits.