The tea ceremony is said to be a way to refine the mind and face oneself, not merely a manner of drinking tea. Mindfulness, on the other hand, is a way to calm the mind by focusing on the “here and now.
At first glance, tea ceremony and mindfulness may seem different, but they actually have deep similarities.
In this article, we will explain the history of the tea ceremony and mindfulness, the elements of each, and what can be gained through the tea ceremony.
Contents
The Relationship between the Tea Ceremony and Mindfulness
The origins of the tea ceremony date back to the 12th century when Eisai brought tea back from China.
Later, from the Kamakura (1185-1333) to Muromachi (1333-1573) periods, the tea ceremony developed from the ritual of offering tea to the Buddha, which was used as a form of ascetic training. This became the prototype for the tea ceremony.
Tea Ceremony and Zen
The tea ceremony is based on the spirit of Zen. Zen teachings emphasize the importance of focusing one’s attention on the here and now, or shonen.
The tea ceremony is one of the ways to practice this “seinen.
The etiquette of the tea ceremony dictates that each action should be performed with concentration and care.
- boil water
- Measure tea leaves
- Drew tea
- Handling the tea bowl
- Serving sweets
In all processes of the tea ceremony, we need to focus our attention on the here and now. In addition, etiquette is prescribed for handling the tea bowl.
Each action, such as receiving the teacup with both hands or bringing the teacup close to the mouth, must be performed with care. We can show our respect for the other person by handling the tea bowl.
Receiving sweets also expresses the spirit of the unity of host and guest in the tea ceremony. Shukaku Ittai means that the master does not entertain the guest unilaterally, but that both parties approach the tea ceremony as equals, sympathizing with each other.
If you unravel the history of the tea ceremony, you will find that there are many elements that lead to mindfulness. The tea ceremony is not just a pastime, but a way to improve one’s mind and to reflect on oneself.
The Space of the Tea Ceremony and Mindfulness
There are many elements of the tea ceremony that are connected to mindfulness. The space of the tea ceremony room, the tea utensils, and the tea ceremony etiquette are all designed to help calm the mind and focus on the “here and now.
The Space of the Tea Room
The tearoom is a quiet space isolated from the outside world. Passing through a small entrance called a “suriguchi,” we leave behind the distractions of daily life and surrender ourselves to the special space of the tea ceremony room.
What is a Tsukubai?
Before entering the tea ceremony room, we cleanse our hands and calm our minds in a zhuwai. The act of squatting is a preparatory exercise for entering the tea ceremony room. By doing so, we naturally straighten our backs and calm our minds.
When entering a tea ceremony room, there are rules of etiquette. By observing the etiquette, we can naturally calm our minds and show respect to others.
Hanging Scrolls and Flowers
Kakejiku (hanging scrolls) and flowers are displayed in the alcove of a tea room. The hanging scrolls often depict Zen sayings or ink drawings. Flowers are arranged according to the season. The hanging scrolls and flowers purify the space of the tea room and calm the mind.
The walls of a tea room are made of clay or bamboo. The color and texture of the walls give a sense of warmth. The floor of the tea room is covered with tatami mats. The aroma of the tatami mats is soothing and calming. The lighting in a tea room is dim. Dim lighting enhances concentration.
In this way, the space of a tea room can be said to promote mindfulness in the sense of calming the mind and sharpening the five senses.
Tea utensils
Each tea utensil is carefully crafted. Each tea utensil, including the bowl, chashaku (tea scoop), and chasen (tea whisk), has its own unique shape and texture.
By holding a tea utensil in our hands, we can sharpen our senses and focus on the present moment.
Tea bowls are made of clay. The shape and texture of each teacup differs from one another. We can feel the warmth of the clay by holding a tea bowl in our hands. Chasen (tea whisk) and chashaku (tea scoop) are also made of bamboo. The tip of the tea whisk is thin and flexible. We can feel the texture of the bamboo when we hold it in our hands.
Tea utensils embody the history and culture of the tea ceremony. By picking up a tea utensil, we can experience the depth of the tea ceremony.
What we can gain through the tea ceremony
Through the tea ceremony, the following benefits can be obtained
Beautiful gestures
One of the charms of the tea ceremony is the beauty of the sequence of movements, or “gestures,” in preparing the tea. In the quietness of the room, the refined and refined movements are mesmerizing to behold.
The spirit of the tea ceremony is expressed in the respect, gratitude, and devotion to the person being served.
- Handle the tea bowl carefully with both hands
- Move the tea whisk gently
- Taste the sweets one by one
…By putting your heart and soul into each action, you will naturally show your respect and gratitude to the other person.
Learning beautiful manners through the tea ceremony is a valuable experience that not only improves one’s appearance, but also refines one’s inner self and enriches one’s mind.
Beautiful manners have a positive impact not only on the tea ceremony, but also on our daily lives. You will naturally learn to behave in a polite and beautiful manner in various situations, such as how you treat others, how you eat, and how you approach your work.
Concentration
The etiquette of the tea ceremony requires concentration on each and every action.
In every step of the tea ceremony, whether it is preparing the tea, handling the bowl, or receiving sweets, we need to focus our attention on the here and now.
The various elements of the tea ceremony, such as the quietness of the tea room and the warmth of the tea utensils, help us to focus.
Through the tea ceremony, we can improve our ability to concentrate, which tends to be distracted in our daily lives.
Relaxation Effect
The tearoom is a quiet space isolated from the outside world. Before entering a tea room, we cleanse our hands and calm our minds at a stone wash basin. The quietness of the tearoom calms our minds and hearts.
Each tea utensil is carefully crafted. Each tea utensil, such as the bowl, chasen, and chashaku, has its own unique shape and texture.
By picking up a tea utensil, we can sharpen our senses and relax our minds.
Self-awareness
Through the tea ceremony, we can face our own mind.
In the quiet space of the tea room, we can listen to our own breathing and to the voice of our heart.
The etiquette of the tea ceremony is set forth in the etiquette of etiquette. By paying respect to the other person and by pouring our hearts into the tea ceremony, we are able to become aware of our own state of mind.
Gratitude
The tea ceremony is filled with the thoughts and feelings of many people, including those who prepare the tea, those who make the tea utensils, and those who provide the tea room. Through the tea ceremony, we can develop a sense of gratitude toward those around us.
In addition, we can also enhance our sense of beauty, deepen our understanding of traditional Japanese culture, and build relationships with others. By joining the tea ceremony community, you will not only increase your various sensitivities and knowledge, but also expand your personal relationships.
Conclusion
There are many things that can be gained through the tea ceremony, such as beautiful gestures, concentration, relaxation, self-awareness, and gratitude, all of which are necessary to survive in today’s society.
In addition, the quiet space of the tea room, the warmth of the tea utensils, the manner in which one concentrates on each movement…the various elements of the tea ceremony calm the mind and give us time to face ourselves.
If you would like to take a break from your busy daily life and refresh your mind, or if you would like to reflect on yourself, why not try experiencing the deep relationship between the tea ceremony and mindfulness?
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