Zen & the Art of Tea Drinking

or “Buddha in a cup”

Stopping and focusing on making yourself a cup of tea (or coffee!) can be a great way of practising being present, paying attention, and slowing down.

If you are having a busy and stressful day, pausing to enjoy the process of making a cup of tea is a great way to quickly regain focus and calm.

When you drink with mindfulness, you’re connecting with millions of others who have done so over the centuries.

Follow these simple tips to make the most of your tea break!

• Start by using filtered water if possible.
• Place the water on to boil.  Enjoy the moment of peace and quiet while you wait for the water to boil.
• Really notice your cup/mug.  The shape, and weight in your hands.
• Pour the water into your cup.  Take a moment to enjoy the aroma of the tea leaves.  Notice the colour, texture, and smell. What aromas can you detect?
• Upon taking your first sip – notice the temperature of the tea as it enters your mouth and your perception of the flavour as the tea moves from the front of your mouth to the back.

 

Doing this regularly throughout the day can be a great way to help you focus.  It’s a great exercise to do before you start work on something important – where you want to focus and minimise distractions. 

And best of all practising mindfulness in your everyday activities helps to decrease stress and increase happiness.

 

 “Zencha ichimi” – tea and Zen are one

Tea and comfort

Today I spent time reflecting on all the simple things in life that bring me comfort.

Sometimes we all have days where we need comforting.

And although it is wonderful to be able to reach out to our partners, our family and friends, that is not always so practical.

It occurred to me this morning that it’s been months since I’ve had a really lovely big hug.  I’m in a position though where they are not that easy to come by.

It was a great opportunity though to appreciate the MANY things in my life that do bring me comfort.

Such as:

• Laughing with my son
• Time spent with friends
• Beautiful music
• Wearing my favourite perfume
• The feel of sunshine on my skin on a cold day
• Sinking into a warm bed after a long day

and perhaps my favourite:

• a hot cup of tea

 

If we always search externally, and look to others to satisfy our needs, we will never be happy.

If we find it in ourselves, we take our comfort and sense of security (our home) with us wherever we go.

 

my late grandma’s china… something very special to me that also brings me comfort
(photo by my son, 6yo)

I stop for suffering

It may be the name of my blog, however I really do stop for suffering.

I really care about people, and am passionate about helping them, and easing their suffering.

So friends, grab a cup of tea (or coffee if you prefer), and tell me…

How are you?

What’s on your mind?

What are you grateful for today?

Or struggling with?

Spread love everywhere you go:

First of all in your own house …
kindness in your face,
kindness in your eyes,
kindness in your smile,
kindness
~ Mother Teresa –