"Preparing the tea is all part of the process of quietening our mind from the chaos that is sometimes our life ." ~ Celia M.
On the journey of recovery post accident- physical and emotional injuries - I discovered that taking time (for me) from all the medical appointments in my day was as crucial to my recovery as the therapy appointments. The challenge was getting my mind to quieten so that I could truly be in the moment and reap the benefits of calmness. And also doing something that was relaxing and still made me feel like I was "doing something" other than just sitting.
Over time, we started to notice that when I took the time to prepare tea (instead of just throwing a teabag in a regular mug and pouring boiling water in - and drinking it as I moved about) and actually took a few minutes to sit while I sipped my tea ~ a calming effect occurred, that medication could not achieve.
Making tea part of my day has an incredible calming effect on my mind and soul. I look forward to tea time (ME Time). Making time for tea is making time for myself - to recharge, mind, body, spirit each day is important and I'm worth it! AND SO ARE YOU...
Benefits of making time for tea:
~Hydration - one of the things that I am not very good at is drinking enough water throughout the day. Tea is a healthy drink that has no additives which can contribute to poorer health (i.e. soft drinks). Tea also has antioxidant benefits which may be beneficial for overall health.
~ Calm activity - inherently drinking tea is a calm and relaxing activity, which allows you to sit for a few moments and relax/decompress. As someone with anxiety, doing things that help me to relax is crucial for my health. This simple act of relaxing is most healthy for ones spirit.
~ Routine - incorporating tea into your day provides a structured time to actually sit back and enjoy some peaceful time in your day. I can't believe I'm about to write this - Routine is a good thing, as it is relaxing to know what comes next. When scheduled into your day - it becomes as important an appointment as all other things in your day. Actually it should be even more important - as the appointment is with YOURSELF.
The simple act of drinking any decaffeinated tea can have a positive impact on your ability to slow down and pause for a few rejuvenating moments in your day.
Now that I have reminded you of some of the benefits of making time for tea, I'm going to share my process of preparing my cup of tea.
I'm so happy you stopped by for tea ... the kettle is on,
the teacup and saucer, a little treat, teapot and since we are having loose leaf tea, a tea strainer is all ready to go.
Today it's Oolong tea ... so I've set the water temperature accordingly. If you don't have a pre-programmed water temperature kettle, don't worry - before I was gifted this one by the furbabies - I would let the water settle a bit after boiling before adding it to teapot.
The Oolong tea is from Angelina and is one of my favourite teas. Some Oolong teas require 3-4 minutes of steep time, while others may require 6-8 minutes. You may either follow the instructions on the bag or do a little experimenting to find the right amount of steeping time for your liking.
Enjoying just a cup of tea is good ... but when you add a tiny treat it becomes marvelous! Remember I said tiny - not a whole cake. A savory treat can also be a great option.
When the steep time is done pour your tea into a china teacup. There is something magical about drinking tea from a teacup with a saucer. For me drinking from a teacup and saucer - automatically triggers a relaxing effect at the anticipation of sipping the tea.
This Royal Albert -Chelsea Bird teacup is one of my favourite teacups.
Choose a spot in your home that is quiet, has natural daylight, and has comfy sitting.
There are various spaces throughout our home (inside and outside - depending on weather and season) in which I enjoy my afternoon tea. Today, I'm sitting in our kitchen looking out at the gardens. Fresh cut flowers always bring a smile to my day, so when the gardens are sleeping over winter and have not yet awaken ~ a bouquet from the local market is perfect.
In this little cozy corner I usually keep an inspirational book, something that can be read a page or two at a time. Currently I'm enjoying - Daily Guidance from your Angels by Doreen Virtue.
Now ....
Turn off ALL technology that could be distracting ... no calls, no checking emails/texts. If there are others that live in your home - let them know unless it's an emergency you are not to be disturbed (what's for dinner? and have you seen my socks? are not emergencies) AND ....
GO MAKE YOURSELF A CUP OF TEA!
When was the last time you made time
in YOUR day for you?
Making Tea Part of Your Day and Taking Time for Yourself.
Stay in Step with High Heeled Life ...
Sharing this post with ... Mosaic Monday ~
Antiques and Teacups for Tuesday Cuppa Tea ~ Rose Chintz Cottage for Tea time Tuesday ~ Artful Affirmations and Martha's favorites for Teacup Tuesday Table Top Tuesday ~ A Return to Loveliness Tuesday
