
My friend taught me that the beautiful copper colored teakettle I have on my stove has a purpose besides just being decorative. It makes tea! I know that sounds like a “no duh” statement, but my teakettle had been incredibly neglected. Not any more.
First, I select the tea I want to drink. I think about what I need. Do I need a little caffeine pick me up or the calmness of an herbal tea? What scent is going to give me a little inspiration at the moment? Which teacup (notice I didn’t say big ‘ol coffee mug) is calling to me to be used? This all takes less than a minute, but it’s part of the experience and helps me to focus on the experience.
Once I’ve made my choices, I pour just enough water in the kettle for the amount of tea I’m going to make. Once the water has boiled, I put one tea bag per serving directly in the kettle and allow it to steep for three to five minutes. When the tea is the strength I like it, I pour it into a pretty teacup.
There is something very relaxing about this process. After the tea is made, I take a few quite minutes to sip it, either by myself or with a friend. I stay away from phones, computers, and anything with a screen and just stop and smell the roses (or the lemon tea) for a bit.
If there is one thing I’m learning, busy is never going to go away. You have to make sure you take a few minutes daily for experiences like a simple cup of tea. So give yourself permission to take 5 or 10 minutes out of your day, boil yourself some amazing tea, pour it in a beautiful teacup, and sit in your favorite chair and sip it. The experience is divine.
Pure Love Grows X0X0X0
Image: Jeremy Keith