In the vast world of online musings, a simple call for post suggestions led to a delightful exchange with a fellow tea lover named Ellie. Her questions about tea were not just inquiries; they were portals into the deeper, more intricate ways this humble beverage has woven itself into the fabric of my life.
I’ve been on this tea – drinking journey for around fifteen years, a daily ritual that began as a pursuit of health after reading about its benefits. But what kept me hooked was an equal love for the taste of tea and the enchanting atmosphere it creates. So much so that I’ve built an elaborate tea room in my home, a haven where I can host friends and family for tea gatherings. And wherever I travel, a full tea set and my favorite teas accompany me, a testament to my unwavering devotion.
Ellie’s first question was about how my love for tea has influenced other aspects of my life. It’s funny; I hadn’t really considered the impact on my travel until she pointed it out. But looking back, it’s clear that tea has been a guiding star for my adventures. I’ll go to great lengths to seek out unique tea experiences, often prioritizing cities known for their tea culture. Whether it’s the serene tea houses in rural Japan, the bustling tea spots in China, or the charming Zhao Zhou in Budapest, tea has taken me to some of the most beautiful places in the world.
Tea offers a slow and immersive experience unlike any other beverage. It’s not a drink for a quick catch – up; it’s for long, meaningful conversations, for moments of calm reflection. There might be a scientific explanation, with caffeine providing a gentle stimulant and L – theanine offering a calming effect. Or perhaps it’s simply the nature of tea, sipped in small doses over multiple infusions, taking up a significant amount of time. When I travel with friends, I yearn for these tea – filled moments, where we can truly connect. And let’s not forget, tea is enhanced by beauty. The setting of a tea session, whether it’s in the mountains or by a river, adds an extra layer of magic.
The tea business is an interesting beast. If you were looking to make the least money with the most effort, it might be the perfect choice. Most people aren’t willing to shell out more than $12 – 15 for a pot of tea, and they’ll likely occupy a table for an hour. High – quality tea for home brewing might cost only $2 – 5 per session. And restaurants often struggle to brew tea well enough to justify the cost of high – end leaves. But this means that the people who run tea shops are driven by a deep passion for tea, eager to share their love with others. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve walked into a tea shop and been treated to free tea, even on my first visit. Meeting these passionate tea entrepreneurs is always a highlight of my tea – filled travels.
As for how tea has affected my diet, I wouldn’t say it’s changed my food choices in a major way, except perhaps contributing to my decision to skip breakfast. I gave up breakfast about a decade ago, and I find that tea provides enough satisfaction and takes up enough time in the morning that I don’t feel the need to eat. I do think tea has refined my palate. The subtleties of tea flavors and the differences between various types require a keen sense of taste and concentration. Now, I often find myself picking up on minute flavors in foods that I never noticed before. Whether this is directly due to tea, I can’t say for sure, but it’s a likely possibility.
The question of whether tea has made me more mindful is a tricky one. The term “mindful” is so nebulous that it’s hard to give a definitive answer. I do know that the act of preparing and drinking tea requires a certain level of focus and presence, but whether that translates to being more mindful in all aspects of life is up for debate.
Ellie’s second question delved into whether tea has made me more discerning and how I deal with those who aren’t as particular. I’ll be honest; being called discerning is probably a polite way of saying I’m a bit of a snob, especially when it comes to tea. I can tolerate any pure tea leaves in a pinch, but the lack of quality is glaringly obvious to me. I am particular about many things, and it’s hard to say if this is a trait that tea has fostered or if it’s just part of my nature, with tea fitting neatly into it.
When it comes to sharing tea with others, I’m just grateful for their company. My wife has a rather simple taste in tea, with her favorite being “anything warm,” but I cherish the moments we spend together in the tea room. Most of my friends have developed an interest in tea to some extent, and even those who aren’t die – hard fans will join me for a cup, creating a cozy space for conversation. I’m acutely aware that I wouldn’t do the same for coffee or alcohol, which makes me even more appreciative of their willingness to indulge my tea – loving ways.
And when I encounter those who think they have great taste in tea but don’t quite measure up, I remind myself of my own journey. There was a time when I thought Adagio white tea bags were the height of tea sophistication. And I’m also humbled by the fact that many of my friends, especially those in the tea business, know far more than I do. I’m sure I seem like an amateur to them at times, especially when I offer my thoughts on puerh tea, the type I’m least familiar with.
In the end, Ellie’s questions have been a wonderful opportunity to reflect on how tea has shaped my life. From my travels to my relationships, from my palate to my perspective, tea has left an indelible mark. And I’m excited to see where this tea – filled journey will take me next.
