It's All About Tea — tea philosophy
The Enigmatic Cha Qi: Tea Experience and Its Transformative Powers
Posted by Misha Gulko on
In the world of tea, there is a fascinating concept known as "Cha Qi" (茶气) – a notion that adds an intriguing dimension to the tea experience.
To grasp the essence of Cha Qi, let's look at the hieroglyph 气, pronounced "Qi." Its form signifies an energy that is fluid, ever-present, ever-changing, and elusive – an embodiment of the unseen forces that govern life itself. Within the realm of tea (茶 – Cha), Cha Qi plays a significant role, extending beyond the act of tea drinking to influence the entire tea experience.
In this exploration, we'll delve into Cha Qi as the tea's ability to affect a person's physical and mental state. Beyond being a simple beverage, tea becomes a gateway to altered states of mind and heightened sensations. From teas that help you focus to those that induce a sense of calm, the tea experience becomes a personal voyage where the ordinary transcends into something extraordinary. Throughout this exploration, we'll try to understand and define the enigmatic nature of Cha Qi. (Read more)
Gong Fu Cha: Tea Ritual or Brewing Technique?
Posted by Misha Gulko on
Today, we're, once again, delving into the world of Gong Fu Cha, a fascinating Chinese tea practice that combines traditions with the art of brewing. Practice that aims to unlock the full potential of tea leaves through meticulous techniques.
But here's the big question: Is Gong Fu Cha just a brewing technique? Or does it hold a deeper spiritual meaning? In this exploration, we'll dive into the two sides of the debate and unravel the layers of Gong Fu Cha. We'll uncover its connection to mindfulness, cultural heritage, and the pursuit of extracting the most delightful flavors and aromas from tea leaves.
So, grab your favorite teacup and join us as we embark on this journey through the enchanting realm of Gong Fu Cha. (Read more)
Gong Fu Cha: Intuition or Structure?
Posted by Misha Gulko on
In a world where everything can be divided into two groups, Gong Fu Cha practitioners can be split between two distinct "schools of thought": those who believe that tea should be approached with a free and intuitive mindset and those who see it as a disciplined practice that requires adherence to rules and standards. Each school offers unique perspectives and benefits but also potential flaws.
In this article, we will explore these two approaches to Gong Fu Cha practice, discuss their benefits and potential shortcomings. So, grab a cup of tea and let's dive in! (Read more)
Tea as a TEAcher (Tea for the Soul)
Posted by Misha Gulko on
Start drinking tea slowly, without rush, start paying attention to tea, and you start staying more in the moment, and by paying more attention to the present, you gradually become more mindful. By becoming more conscious, you start getting rid of bad habits and begin cultivating a healthier lifestyle and healthier relationship with the world around you.
By allowing yourself to pause and relax, you are allowing yourself to calm down, become kinder, more balanced and make better decisions (Read more)
Sen no Rikyu, The Great Master of Japanese Tea Ceremony
Posted by Angelina Kurganska on