Take Advantage of Tea’s Benefits
Interested in learning more about the tasty world of tea? Once you’ve selected your favourite variety, you’ll relish relaxing with a hot, aromatic cup of this ancient beverage.
- Visit a tea merchant, in person or on the Internet; ask for their advice to introduce you to this expansive world.
- Try a variety of teas with different aromas and tastes to establish your preferences; start with a dozen to decide on your tastes. You will prefer certain ones, your friends will love others; keep those you prefer and give the others to friends.
- Treat yourself and buy a lovely clay Yixing or ceramic Japanese teapot, a few small cups and a serving tray.
- Brew one full teaspoon of tea per 250 mL of hot water for about seven minutes; adjust to your taste. It is normal for tea to taste slightly bitter because of the polyphenols.
- Schedule tea breaks at home or at work.
- Choose a relaxing and soothing environment for enjoying this fine beverage.
- Savour this moment of introspection if you are drinking tea by yourself.
- Relish this moment of friendship if you are sharing it with a friend.
- Treasure this moment of culture and humanity, with 20 centuries of history behind it.
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Originally Published: January 18, 2011