Tea is underrated. It has the power to calm, energize or heal depending on the various components of the blend. But often I find that we treat tea as just another ho hum drink. Sometimes that is because we have had bad experiences with tea or don’t understand that there is a wide variety of tea types. Perhaps that last point is actually so overwhelming that it makes tea seem intimidating.
For me herbal teas (tisanes) are the most approachable and the least likely to be over-steeped. Over-steeping is what causes that unbearable bitter flavor most of us have experienced. I also find herbal teas are the most versatile, customizable and effective for creating a mood. If I want to feel calm, I know that Chamomile is usually going to work well. If I need to feel energized, I can pick up a mint or lemongrass tea and I’ll be ready for nearly anything within minutes.
Herbal teas are also effective as a tool for mindfulness and for being present in the moment. I’m not one for overcomplicating life but I find that if I take even just a few mindful moments to really sit and enjoy the warmth, smell and taste of tea that it’s power to calm or energize me (depending on the blend) is multiplied.
Often when we think of teas, we think of strange and complicated ingredients. Maybe you have even seen a tea with an ingredient like chicory root or rose hips and thought, “What is that even?” But, tea does not have to feel that foreign. In fact, it can be quite accessible. Even if you do not have prepackaged tea at home, you can still create a mindful moment while sipping a tea made from herbs that you already have in your kitchen. Yes, the dried herbs you have to spice your dishes can be used to make tea.
Here’s one of my all time favorite blends
Mint Basil Tea
1 Part Dried Mint
1 Part Dried Basil
Mix these together. Use 1 teaspoon in a tea bag, tea ball or tea diffuser and pour 8 oz of boiling water on top. Let steep for 3 minutes.
If you are looking to try something more fancy, consider this:
Lavender Basil Tea
1 Part Dried Food Grade Lavender*
1 Part Dried Basil
Mix these together. Use 1 teaspoon in a tea bag, tea ball or tea diffuser and pour 8 oz of boiling water on top. Let steep for 3 minutes.
*Some Lavender is only grown for fragrance. If you are buying from a culinary herb shop or grocery, you should be fine.
You can get very creative without ever having to buy a new spice, if you want.
From improving our health to increasing our focus or helping us calm down after a stressful day, tea’s benefits are innumerable. I hope even if you’ve previously had a bad experience with tea that you will consider giving it another try and take a moment to really enjoy the benefits of the flavor, warmth and smell of tea as well as its power to change your mood. Incorporating it into your daily life can help increase your ability to stay present and be mindful in the moment.
Enjoy!
