a moment of connection.

I learned about connection from a tiny cup of tea.

The start of a tea ceremony.

The connection begins when I make the decision to have a tea ceremony. I begin by choosing a peaceful environment and then create an altar. Next I choose the tea, create the setting, bring the water up to the proper temperature and then swirl the leaves in my gongfu tea pot, serve and then mindfully drink. I love how the tea brews deeper with each pour (as there are many) and then once it reaches its peak, it begins to lighten. It builds and then it releases, allowing all the flavors of the tea to come forth. With tea, I take a pause from my day and bring my full attention to the art of tea. I practice slowing done, single-tasking, which helps me cultivate awareness. A deep connection happens through my relationship with each component of the tea ceremony. What a gift.