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Take Time: Mindfulness In A Mug But, what is mindfulness? Mindfulness is defined as being aware of the present moment, without focus on memories or possibilities. Pay attention to the experience you are currently a part of, without dwelling, and without projecting. This sounds simple enough. We are always somewhere and we are always doing something. But, are we always present and aware? Or, are we aloof? Dreaming? Worrying?
How can we use our humble mug of tea to guide us more easily into a mentality of contentment?
For this moment, turn off your television or computer. Don’t flip through your phone. Multitasking is great when it saves time. But, it also creates a web of distractions that keep your brain moving. Allow yourself to take a break from the kid’s, the laundry, or the deadlines. You might discover that you will be able to step back in refreshed and recharged!
Slowing down and taking in the small details of the day calms the mind and clarifies the thoughts. Scientists studying the mind’s reaction to meditation have discovered physical changes that occur in the brains of individuals who practice mindfulness. The areas in the brain that allow us to control our emotional responses and our ability to stay attentive are strengthened. The brain and body are connected. Relaxation of the body promotes relaxation for the mind, and vice versa. The results of this simple exercise in calm are innumerable. Blood pressure levels lower when the mind is calm. Stress lowers when the body is calm. The results of one positive impact directly relate to another.
By meditating on a cup of tea, you get the added benefits that come from the leaf itself. Tea contains L-theanine amino acid, which stimulates natural calm within the mind. In fact, L-theanine stimulates alpha brain wave activity, thus facilitating a focused and calm mind perfect for your mindfulness practice.
Japan’s tea ceremony is renowned for it’s beauty and attention to detail. It is a Zen Buddhist practice known as Chado, literally “Tea Way.†The elegance and focus is attributed to this philosophy. In The Book of Tea, KakuzÅ Okakura explains: “a special contribution of Zen to Eastern thought was its recognition of the mundane as of equal importance with the spiritual. It held that in the great relation of things there was no distinction of small and great, an atom possessing equal possibilities with the universe.†This mentality went well with the simple act of brewing tea. He continues, “The whole idea of Teaism is a result of this Zen conception of greatness in the smallest incidents of life.â€
Now that we have explored the historic relevance of mindfulness and tea drinking, we can learn from the traditions of the cultures that practiced them. Perhaps a little ceremony added to our fast-paced lives can provide the focus we need. Whether you seek to be more productive, calm, or thankful, you can cultivate these habits through self-study and a moment alone with tea. Be grateful for the small details and flavors in the cup. Be thankful for your amazing ability to taste, smell, and explore your sensory world. Consult with yourself, and turn off the outside stimuli. You might smile at the reflection in the mug.