A tea ceremony is a unique art that transforms the brewing and savoring of tea into a magical ritual.
Four Principles of the Process
1. Wa (Harmony) — this state is achieved through interaction between people and harmonious unity with nature and the surrounding world.
2. Kei (Respect) — a feeling of gratitude toward oneself, the Higher Powers, and all that exists.
3. Sei (Purity) — both physical and spiritual, which is an essential condition for the previous two principles.
4. Jaku (Tranquility) — the final stage that comes after mastering all the processes and is considered the greatest value.
Stages of the Ceremony
Participants in this event comfortably settle onto soft cushions. Before the ceremony begins, the tea master invites guests to carefully examine the blend of herbs and flowers from which the tea will be prepared and to experience their delicate aroma.
Next, the tea master rinses and preheats the chahai (a small vessel into which brewed tea is poured). The tea leaves should be covered with hot water, filling the teapot to the very brim.
When the tea leaves rise to the surface, they are removed with a special spoon. The teapot with the tea leaves is covered with a lid, and the first infusion is discarded.
The second brewing takes place in the following sequence: hot water is poured into the teapot once again. The tea undergoes a second stage of purification from excess impurities, after which it is left to steep to achieve the ideal richness of flavor. After that, the tea can finally be poured into the chahai, and from there into individual drinking bowls.
Traditionally, tea is enjoyed while “turning” the bowl to the right, clockwise. This method is called “maintaining an observant position in life.” Turning the bowl counterclockwise (to the left), however, is believed to have a terrible influence on the life of the person drinking the tea. Yet if there is a situation in life that requires destruction (that is, a turning point and change), then the bowl should be turned to the left.
How Is the Tea Ceremony Directly Connected to Magic?
Of course, through the herbs and flowers used to brew the tea, as well as through meditation and mindful presence during the process!
Each plant has its own unique meaning. When different varieties are combined, the drink acquires magical properties and forms a remarkable formula. For example:
a combination of nettle, mistletoe, birch, ginkgo, and lemon tree brings peace and helps restore lost balance;
brewing matcha provides clear and balanced concentration, enhances meditation effectiveness, and promotes mindfulness;
drinking pu-erh tea attunes one to new beginnings, opens the heart chakra, and cleanses the aura.
Meditation is equally important: participants focus their attention on the process of brewing tea, its blessed aromas, and the feelings that arise throughout the ceremony. This allows not only the body and mind to relax but also helps one feel connected to the environment and to their own Self.
This form of relaxation and meditation allows new depths of tea’s flavor and aroma to be discovered, making the process especially magical. This ancient tradition is an entire ritual that strengthens the connection between the present and the past.
We are certain that you should try conducting a tea ceremony at least once — and you will fall in love with this magical process forever!
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