Tea meditation, an ancient practice with roots in Chinese Zen traditions, combines the art of mindful tea drinking with meditation techniques. It originates from the idea of using tea as a medium for deep reflection and awareness and this practice emphasises the present moment through the ritual of tea preparation and consumption.
Mindful tea preparation and consumption, nurtures the mind, body, and spirit and promotes calm, focus, and gratitude in daily life.
Tea meditation, as explained by Manjeri Agarwal, Life & Business Strategist and Head of Inha Community, involves the deliberate preparation and consumption of tea to enhance physical and mental well-being. “This practice begins with the mindful selection of tea leaves and teaware, focusing on textures and colors to heighten visual awareness” she says.
Agarwal shares an array of health benefits of tea meditation:
Reduces stress and anxiety: By centering attention on the process of tea preparation and consumption, tea meditation helps ground you in the present moment. This mindfulness practice can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, offering a calm escape from daily pressures.
Helps in digestion: Sipping teas like peppermint and ginger slowly during meditation can improve gut health. These herbs are known for their digestive benefits; peppermint soothes the digestive tract, while ginger helps reduce nausea and supports overall digestion.
Boosts immunity: Green tea, rich in antioxidants like catechins, enhances overall immunity and boosts metabolism. Regularly drinking green tea as part of your tea meditation routine can help strengthen your body’s defenses against illnesses.
Improves sleep quality: Teas such as chamomile and lavender are known for their calming effects. Incorporating these into your meditation practice can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality by soothing the mind and body.
Provides antioxidant boosts: Teas like white tea and matcha are packed with antioxidants, which help protect your body against chronic diseases. Drinking these during meditation can offer a significant boost in your antioxidant intake, supporting overall health.
Improves focus: Observing the colour and aroma of the tea can enhance focus and concentration. This practice can be particularly beneficial for those with attention disorders like ADHD, as it helps improve focus and reduce distractions.
Emotional well-being: Tea meditation encourages self-awareness through reflection on the sensations and emotions experienced during the tea ritual. This mindful practice fosters emotional well-being by helping you connect with and understand your feelings better.
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