Japanese Tea Ceremony (Chanoyu)

Many of my friends know how much I love anything about "tea". 

• I sleep "tea", (Yes, I have pillows that have tea leaves instead of feather) 
• I drink "tea",  (Yes, everyday. At least, once a day) 
• I cook "tea", (See from my old post) 
• I talk "tea", and 
• I have been studying Japanese Tea Ceremony. 

What is Japanese Tea Ceremony then?  
"By these words, Sen Rikyu established an essential concept in chado (Japanese Tea Ceremony), the way of tea. Chado has developed over the more than four hundred years since the time of Rikyu so that host and guests might share a bowl of tea in a comfortable atmosphere conducive to mutual exchange. Based upon a prescribed set of movements, unique utensils, and Japanese traditional history and culture, participation in tea gatherings can certainly appear daunting. However, as long as the guests can appreciate and enjoy the moment shared over tea with the host, then the tea gathering is a success. From four hundred years ago until today, all over the world, such gatherings occur. The exact method and style varies depending on the host, location, and season, yet the fundamental purpose remains unchanged".
I am writing this blog because I am so honored to be a Teaching Assistant for a Japanese Tea Ceremony class at University of Minnesota (Extension course).

In class, we discussed on how tea ceremony being developed, its concept, its influence, and how to perform it. Students then got a chance to perform a mini tea ceremony. Though, one cannot be a master in just one practice. Like everything else, it is a life-long learning. 

Why should we spend time learning Japanese Tea Ceremony? Or how does practicing Japanese Tea Ceremony enhance our lives?

It is a communion between host and guests, in an environment designed to still the mind. The tea is served ritually, and the participants appreciate the aesthetics of the setting and the unique utensils. 

Besides an art of hand movement in tea ceremony, throughout all of the ceremony are four guiding inspirations: wa, kei, sei, jaku — Harmony, Respect, Purity and Tranquility. Hidden within the relative simplicity of these words is a subtle and profound philosophy that can facilitate great transformation in our lives. Chanoyu is beneficial for all aspects of our being: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. Chanoyu heightens our awareness of the sacredness of our daily activities. It helps us to focus on the details of our life with wonder and freshness.

Similar to what we believe at Great Tea Road: Your Journey begins with Our teas. 

"In my own hands I hold a bowl of tea; I see all of nature represented in its green color. Closing my eyes, I find green mountains and pure water within my own heart. Silently sitting alone and drinking tea, I feel these become part of me. What is the most wonderful thing for people like myself who follow the Way of Tea? My answer: the oneness of host and guest created through 'meeting heart to heart' and sharing a bowl of tea."
- Dr. Soshitsu Sen, Urasenke Grand Tea Master XV

Tea setup for a ceremony. 

Credit: Urasenke organization, Japan. Green star Co-op.

Disclaimer: We are not associated with any tea organization.