It's All About Tea — wabi cha

In Japanese tea culture, the words Wa, Kei, Sei, and Jaku, which translate as Harmony, Respect, Purity, and Tranquility, form the backbone of the philosophy of Chado (茶道) – the Way of Tea. These four principles were articulated by Sen no Rikyu in the 16th century as practical guidelines for how tea should be approached, prepared, served, and received.

Sen no Rikyu was the figure who placed value on simplicity, harmony, and direct human presence rather than on exclusivity and excess. His codification of the Four Principles was rooted in principles of Zen and a sharp resistance to ornamental excess. "Wa" reflects the harmony between host, guest, and environment. "Kei" points to mutual regard: how participants are greeted and how tea is handled. "Sei" is referring to both physical cleanliness and mental clarity. And "Jaku" is pointing to the tranquility that comes when these conditions are cultivated over time.

These principles are relevant for practitioners of Gong Fu Cha and Chado alike. While the aesthetics and mechanics of these two tea practices differ, the inner substance of these practices is shared. In this article, we'll examine each of the four principles in more detail to understand how these tools can sharpen awareness, improve practice, and deepen your relationship with tea. (Read more)

Japanese philosophy offers a unique way of perceiving beauty that is characterized by subtlety, depth, and thoughtful simplicity. This perception emphasizes feelings that arise from nuanced encounters rather than direct statements or elaborate displays. In Japanese tradition, beauty is rarely just about visual appeal; it's rather a quiet invitation for reflection where beauty reveals itself not by overwhelming the senses but by inviting awareness. These concepts are deeply reflected in the mindful appreciation of Gong Fu Cha, the refined elegance of Senchado, and the contemplative intimacy of Cha No Yu.

Although our journey will often touch upon tea culture, the ideas we'll explore are not limited to tea alone. They reflect broader sensibilities in art, design, and daily life. Whether you are arranging a tea space, admiring the thoughtful emptiness of a tearoom, or appreciating the quiet beauty of natural materials, these principles can guide us toward deeper awareness and richer experiences.

Let's explore how the concepts that shape the Japanese perception of beauty can elevate our tea practice and teach us to appreciate life's quiet moments. (Read more)

Sen no Rikyu (1522 – 1591) is known by everyone to have the most profound influence on chanoyu, the Japanese "Way of Tea". Also known as matcha tea ceremony. Rikyu took to tiny grass-hut tea houses for his tea practices and kept promoting the wabi-sabi style of tea ceremony that he and his tea master started. (Read more)