When starting a blog, where in the whole world does one start? I decided it had to be in one of the most natural places for me to be. Drinking tea. It happens every day, it defines my time. Morning, a break, a talk with a good friend, a respite, a meditation, closing the day. A simple thing, yet profound. Necessary.
It started with my father. He always drinks Earl Grey – no variation, no fuss. I have no idea when I started to join him in this daily habit, but it is as far back as I can remember. He probably never even considered that a child might not like tea, but I learned. And enjoyed.
I have always been the more exploring and curious kind, so my connoiseurship soon extended to lemon black tea and blackcurrant, sometimes with milk and honey. During the course of my life this universe has exploded and I love so many different kinds of tea. My taste buds have developed a sense of refinement and quality can never be denied!
My most recent exploration is into the world of Chinese Puerh (considered the champagne of teas) and its benefits for meditation. My cupboard nowadays is like a library of teas. There is one for every occasion. Warm spicy Indian chai and fragrant green jasmine tea are two constant companions of mine.
I have found that I work well when ingesting tea, especially when it is green. It clears my mind and helps me focus – yes, there is research to prove those things! Better digestion is also scientifically proved.
With tea I feel at ease, at peace. I regain energy. Supporting mind and body, nudging it. Micro-nutrients and a sensory experience all-in-one.
It warms the body and the heart. It is a dear friend that I never even travel without!
The ceremonial way of drinking tea is in many ways a mindfulness practice. It promotes harmony, respect and tranquility. To give something as simple as making and drinking a cup of tea that amount of undivided attention and to fill it with so much meaning can indeed serve as a spiritual practice.
One of the other main purposes of a tea ceremony, beyond the serving and receiving tea, is for the guests to enjoy the hospitality of the host in an atmosphere distinct from the fast pace of everyday life.
Regardless of where you are, tea always invites you to take a moment in peace. To deepen your breath and your presence.
Some of my most precious memories are ‘tea moments’ – having Kashmiri tea with saffron in the Himalayan foothills with a dear friend while the spring rain is pouring down and the street lights go out… A glass of sweet mint tea in a magical desert with piercing stillness… Smokey cups of Lapsang Souchong while writing long essays and assignments during my university studies…
The most cherished moments I share with my father are still the moments when we are drinking tea together, while talking about life. Time slows down, allows for reflection. Sharing a cup of tea is a social construct that has worked for eons, which is why it also makes a prefect gift for almost anyone.
And so, from this story there is some logic to that I eventually would have a shop selling tea. It will not be the only thing, as you will see as it develops, but nonetheless a very fundamental thing and a beautiful place to start. I offer a selected range of high quality produce from Tea Forté and Bradley’s. Yes, there is Earl Grey too – with wonderful blue blossoms, in honour to my dear father who introduced me to the world of tea.
Namas-tea and see you soon!
ieanah