Other countries are not far behind the pack. They added their own twist as to how tea is prepared and its cultural significance to them.
In India, they mostly prefer to drink black tea with milk, an English custom which the British Colonial rule has influenced them. It can also be added with spices such as: ginger. Cinnamon, pepper, and nutmeg and which varies from region to region. Chai is usually drunk during mornings and afternoons by many Indian families. It is also the custom to offer the first thing if houseguests come to visit.
In Tibet, tea is usually brewed and mixed with salt and butter.
Taiwan is the famous manufacturers of some of the world's high-end green teas as well as oolong teas. It is also where famous Bubble Teas originated. In Taiwan, Thai Tea or cha-yen in their native tongue is a special drink in this country. It is described as is a drink created from red tea. They usually prefer it when brewed strongly. It usually has added anise for taste. Red and yellow food coloring is used as well. And for variety, spices are sometimes added as well. This tea is added sugar and condensed milk for sweetness. And it is generally chilled. The uniqueness of this tea comes from whole or evaporated milk being poured over the tea and ice prior to serving to add to its flavor and creamy appearance. It is never mixed before serving. Green tea is also becoming a very famous commodity at Thailand. It has developed different spins of green tea such as rose, lemon and barley green tea and many others.
Indonesia is best known for their green teas. Teh is the word Indonesians refer to tea. Black teas are mostly exported for blending. It is thanks to the Dutch during the 18th century that teas found its place in the country. It was their idea to establish tea plantations on the Java Island and later on Sumatra and Sulawesi. And its drinking customs are unique by region. The Sudanese people prefer their tea served without sugar. Restaurants in this region also serve tea as a free drink. Think of it as the glass of water other people usually offer their guests. This is because in this region teas are bountiful and cheap. For tea plantations are located on these sides. Moreover, Indonesian water in these parts is unsafe to drink so serving a cup of plain hot tea is a simple gesture that means "Go ahead. The water is safe. It is clean and boiled."
Myanmar is one of the remaining countries where tea is not only consumed as a form of drink but eaten as well. They call it lahpet. Lahpet is a pickled tea served with different food as well.
In Vietnam, tea is grown and cultivated vastly in the north side of the country. This makes it one of the world’s largest tea exporters. The tea is usually drunk green and strongly brewed. The Vietnamese word for tea is trà. It is evident that almost all of their restaurants. A pot of tea is normally served to you once the meal has been ordered. And the refills are free of charge.
In Pakistan, tea is also a sensation. Tea is usually drunk at breakfast. It also usually drank during lunch breaks. And even during the nights at in comforts of their own home. Evening tea is drunk with cake or even biscuits. It will usually depend on the time they have to spare. If you are a guest in this country, you might find yourself being offered between tea or if not soft drinks. It is also customary practice for homeowners to offer tea breaks to their hired labor workers, and sometimes even give them teas during these breaks.
In Sri Lanka, tea is typically served in the English style. It is served with milk and sugar. But usually, the milk is always warmed before serving. Teas are not only a very famous drink to Sri Lankans but also integrated and part of their culture as well. And also many tea plantations have also been invested in the country.
West Side:
Europe
The British Empire is not behind in its contribution to the spreading of tea all over the world. For its own interpretation is shared and passed along its dominion and colonies such as regions in India, Hong Kong and even Pakistan. Although they have existing tea customs, still the influence of the British is still evident even today. Other regions, such as in East Africa (like in Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya) are also not spared of the influence. From no existing customs, they now share similar customs that of the British. Tea isn the UK is usually served black with milk and sometimes with sugar to taste. Tea has become an integral part of their lives. Tea breaks are very important.
As for their traditional custom, English parties are done in an old fashioned manner. The hostess takes out all her best china and begins serving snacks. This is the signal for polite chit-chat to be made.
France is well-known to be coffee drinkers. But an afternoon tea is still a must; a form of a social habit of the upper middle class. Traditionally, the French like their teas in black varieties but Asian green teas as well as fruit- flavored ones are slowly making waves in the country.
Tea in the United States is typically their alternative to drinking coffee. It is drunk all throughout the day, whether served hot, ice cold or as a form of soda. But most Americans prefer to drink it with ice. In the Southern part of the country, serving iced tea is a symbol of their hospitality. And although no formal customs have been usually done like the Englishmen, tea is still romanticized by small children in their playtime.
Middle East and Africa
Tea is the national drink of the country Egypt. It also holds a special position in not only in their culture, but in their everyday lives as well. It is here that even coffee cannot compete with. Egyptians call their tea "shai".
Iran has a very wonderful beginning as to how it discovered tea. From India, and thanks to the Silk Road trading, tea made its way to the heart of Iran. And it would only be time when finally tea will become their national drink. Iranians, as customary, drink their tea by pouring it into a saucer and putting a lump of rock sugar in their mouth before drinking the tea.
In Morocco, they like their green tea with mint rather than the usual black tea. It is present in almost every meal and has become part of the Moroccan culture. They believe that drinking tea is not only the luxury of the tongue, but it should also be the luxury of the eyes.
Take note: Aside from considering the different countries, different regions also have their own preference from the different varieties of tea: white, black, green or oolong teas. And each culture has their own favorite flavorings incorporated in teas. Examples such as sugar, honey, milk, lemons and herbs come into mind. And also, the temperature and strength of tea varies too.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Worldwide Invasion (Part I)
Hold your horses! Before you jump from the wagon and start screaming hysterically that we are being attacked by some unknown beings from the other dimension and begin to say your final prayers, let me clarify one thing. This article is not about alien invasions. And no, there is no need to call the cops or contact the government. I am talking about another kind of invasion. The one that has been initiated almost 5000 years ago by the Chinese. And no, China is not producing any nuclear warheads and there is no imminent World War. I am talking about some else. But equally intriguing. Something more substantial. It is the invasion of TEAS!
Before you stop reading out of disgust for disappointment of this not being about aliens, let me tell you one thing. The whole world is going nuts about teas and it is time for you to catch up too. And you should not blindly just drink one just to be "in" or satisfy social norms. It is important that you, as one of earth’s most intelligent being to take a closer look at the culture that is tea.
If you do not already know, tea is a drink made out of dried, shredded tea leaves from one or more tea shrubs. They come from the same plant source- the tea plant Camellia sinensis.
And note this: Tea is not just some medicinal, healthful drink. It has become very much a part of different cultures of people all around the world, meshed into so many different wonderful ceremonies and rituals that become not only for formal or special occasions but as well as integrated in everyday lives.
But what is this tea culture I am talking about?
Tea culture means the way of tea. It describes how teas are made and drunk. It can also mean the manner people interact with tea. It can also be the aesthetics encompassing tea drinking. The beauty is in the details itself. It is rather broad and diversified if you come to think of it. It can also mean a form of lifestyle, a certain custom in drinking and using teas. And others may define it as form of social process - of learning about teas, planting and cultivating them and using and consuming tea. It is also the appreciation and understanding of teas.
With that in mind, let us examine as how this phenomenon came to be
The start of the beginning...
Location: Ancient China
According to a popular Chinese legend, tea was invented completely by accident. It was discovered by Emperor Shen Nong in the year 2723 B.C. He was known not only as an emperor but a scholar, herbalist, creative scientist and the patron of the arts as well. He believed that drinking water that is boiled will is hygienic and will lead to good health. And so, by his insistence and passing out a decree, he ordered all of his subjects to first boil their water before drinking it. So one day, on a hot, summer day, he and his associates decided to rest a bit while on their way to a distant region. As customary, his servants began to boil his water for him to quench his thirst. And as fate would have it, dried leaves from a nearby plant, the camellia sinensis tea plant, accidently fell into the cup with boiling water. The emperor found the aroma pleasing and so began consuming it. Thus, begin the story of the tea.
Since that fateful day, the world was never the same. From its humble birth, the status of tea continued to grow more and more each day like a plague. During those times drinking tea was a privilege, a gift, and a birthright. For only the prestige, rich and powerful were able to take a sip of this miraculous drink. And then it spread like wildfire. Thanks to the Chinese monks and philosophers who carried along with them, cradling it like their own child. Their treasure. For who would not want to acquire the famed elixir of life in the form of a natural drink? Before they knew it, every scholar, artist, writer and poet began chanting the name TEA.
Its influence did not stop there. Tea became a legend. It was used as a form of tribute. It also became the object for trade and currency. Now it has expanded its horizons. From China, it slowly made its way to Asia. It slowly eased in to every folk's everyday routines. Tea became not just a drink but a way of life. It is no longer JUST a drink. It is THE drink. It becomes a feeling - to be coveted; to be consumed; to be loved.
Are you ready to experience all of this? To be a part of something majestic and equally satisfying? If you are brace yourself. For you are about to enter the TEA ZONE.
Drinking teas are commonly done at social occasions. And many even go to the extent of inventing elaborate and grandiose formal ceremonies just to cater for such events. The westerns call it tea party, usually done in the afternoons. For the easterners however, they call it tea ceremonies. And each country has a different and unique way of performing such ceremonies.
East Side:
Asia:
In Japan, tea ceremonies are known to be formal, complex and tranquil. It is probably the most popular. Although some of these special occasions are private and very formal, others are also open to join in. They are also held as fund-raising and charity events. Tea is practiced not only for ceremonies but in everyday lives of the Japanese. Everyone, regardless of the different walks of life, drink tea as a form of social activity. It emphasizes on respect, harmony, purity and at times meditative.
In China, tea customs had been formed during the Tang Dynasty. It comprises in three social circles: the common people, monastery monks, and the loyal family. It is also worth mentioning that the common people's tea drinking is basically ignored. But for them it signifies pleasure and utility. The Chinese tea ceremony is done for many reasons. It could be a way for asking forgiveness, or simply just creating goodwill between guests during weddings and family reunions.
In Korea, its ceremony is an ancient one that has been revered and practiced for nearly over a thousand years and still counting. Its ceremony was from the inspiration of the tea ceremonies of China and also by Japan. The heart of the Korean tea ceremony is for the enjoyment of the tea. And it should be promoted in a formal yet natural setting where everyone can relax and enjoy drinking tea.
Coming up...
Worldwide Invasion (Part II) in next article...
Before you stop reading out of disgust for disappointment of this not being about aliens, let me tell you one thing. The whole world is going nuts about teas and it is time for you to catch up too. And you should not blindly just drink one just to be "in" or satisfy social norms. It is important that you, as one of earth’s most intelligent being to take a closer look at the culture that is tea.
If you do not already know, tea is a drink made out of dried, shredded tea leaves from one or more tea shrubs. They come from the same plant source- the tea plant Camellia sinensis.
And note this: Tea is not just some medicinal, healthful drink. It has become very much a part of different cultures of people all around the world, meshed into so many different wonderful ceremonies and rituals that become not only for formal or special occasions but as well as integrated in everyday lives.
But what is this tea culture I am talking about?
Tea culture means the way of tea. It describes how teas are made and drunk. It can also mean the manner people interact with tea. It can also be the aesthetics encompassing tea drinking. The beauty is in the details itself. It is rather broad and diversified if you come to think of it. It can also mean a form of lifestyle, a certain custom in drinking and using teas. And others may define it as form of social process - of learning about teas, planting and cultivating them and using and consuming tea. It is also the appreciation and understanding of teas.
With that in mind, let us examine as how this phenomenon came to be
The start of the beginning...
Location: Ancient China
According to a popular Chinese legend, tea was invented completely by accident. It was discovered by Emperor Shen Nong in the year 2723 B.C. He was known not only as an emperor but a scholar, herbalist, creative scientist and the patron of the arts as well. He believed that drinking water that is boiled will is hygienic and will lead to good health. And so, by his insistence and passing out a decree, he ordered all of his subjects to first boil their water before drinking it. So one day, on a hot, summer day, he and his associates decided to rest a bit while on their way to a distant region. As customary, his servants began to boil his water for him to quench his thirst. And as fate would have it, dried leaves from a nearby plant, the camellia sinensis tea plant, accidently fell into the cup with boiling water. The emperor found the aroma pleasing and so began consuming it. Thus, begin the story of the tea.
Since that fateful day, the world was never the same. From its humble birth, the status of tea continued to grow more and more each day like a plague. During those times drinking tea was a privilege, a gift, and a birthright. For only the prestige, rich and powerful were able to take a sip of this miraculous drink. And then it spread like wildfire. Thanks to the Chinese monks and philosophers who carried along with them, cradling it like their own child. Their treasure. For who would not want to acquire the famed elixir of life in the form of a natural drink? Before they knew it, every scholar, artist, writer and poet began chanting the name TEA.
Its influence did not stop there. Tea became a legend. It was used as a form of tribute. It also became the object for trade and currency. Now it has expanded its horizons. From China, it slowly made its way to Asia. It slowly eased in to every folk's everyday routines. Tea became not just a drink but a way of life. It is no longer JUST a drink. It is THE drink. It becomes a feeling - to be coveted; to be consumed; to be loved.
Are you ready to experience all of this? To be a part of something majestic and equally satisfying? If you are brace yourself. For you are about to enter the TEA ZONE.
Drinking teas are commonly done at social occasions. And many even go to the extent of inventing elaborate and grandiose formal ceremonies just to cater for such events. The westerns call it tea party, usually done in the afternoons. For the easterners however, they call it tea ceremonies. And each country has a different and unique way of performing such ceremonies.
East Side:
Asia:
In Japan, tea ceremonies are known to be formal, complex and tranquil. It is probably the most popular. Although some of these special occasions are private and very formal, others are also open to join in. They are also held as fund-raising and charity events. Tea is practiced not only for ceremonies but in everyday lives of the Japanese. Everyone, regardless of the different walks of life, drink tea as a form of social activity. It emphasizes on respect, harmony, purity and at times meditative.
In China, tea customs had been formed during the Tang Dynasty. It comprises in three social circles: the common people, monastery monks, and the loyal family. It is also worth mentioning that the common people's tea drinking is basically ignored. But for them it signifies pleasure and utility. The Chinese tea ceremony is done for many reasons. It could be a way for asking forgiveness, or simply just creating goodwill between guests during weddings and family reunions.
In Korea, its ceremony is an ancient one that has been revered and practiced for nearly over a thousand years and still counting. Its ceremony was from the inspiration of the tea ceremonies of China and also by Japan. The heart of the Korean tea ceremony is for the enjoyment of the tea. And it should be promoted in a formal yet natural setting where everyone can relax and enjoy drinking tea.
Coming up...
Worldwide Invasion (Part II) in next article...
Tea Time!
It's a real fancy looking at how tea is packaged. Knowing that tea comes as Tea bags, Pyramid tea bags, Loose tea, Compressed tea, Instant tea, and Canned tea. A beginner would say, "What is this? What's it like?" or "What do I choose from here?" Don't worry. All of them can give you as much pleasure as the other. You just have to choose any. Considering you don't know what they are exactly, I'm going to lay them down for you, one by one, in words.
But, first, let me tell you something about tea. Tea is a product of a processed Camellia sinensis leaves by way of oxidation. There are many kinds to choose from: there's the Black tea, Oolong tea, Green tea, White tea, Yellow tea, Post-fermented tea and those blended and flavored teas. Each of them has undergone different processing and so each of them smells, tastes and feels different.
Moreover, to introduce you to the vast world of tea, the aforementioned kinds have subtypes. For Black Tea (that which has undergone a more extensive oxidation processing than oolong, green, and white tea) there's: Assam, Bohea, Ceylon, Darjeeling, Dian Hong, Keemun, Lapsang souchong, Nepalese, Nilgiri, Orange pekoe, Red tea, Tibeti, Turkish, and Ying De Hong;
Oolong tea (a curled an twisted kind, withered under the scorching sun): Bai Ji Guan, Red Robe, Darjeeling Oolong, Dongding (Tung-ting), Dong Fang Mei Ren, Huangjin Gui (Golden Osmanthus), Qilan tea, Pouchong, Rou Gui, Shui Jin Gui, Shui Hsien (Shui Xian), Tie Luohan, and Tieguanyin (Iron Goddess);
Green Tea (that which has undergone the least fermentation): Aracha, Bancha, Green Spiral, Chun Mee, Da Fang, Genmaicha, Liuan Leaf, Gunpowder, Gyokuro, Hojicha, Hou Kui, Huang Shan Mao Feng, Hyson, Kabusecha, Kamairicha, Konacha, Kukicha, Dragon Well, Matcha, Mao Jian, Mecha, Meng Ding Gan Lu, Sencha, Shincha, and Tamaryokucha;
White tea (comes from the dainty buds and immature leaves of the Camellia sinensis, which are not allowed to wilt under the gaze of the sun to prevent extensive fermentation): Bai Hao Yinzhen, Bai Mu Dan, Darjeeling White, Shou Mei, and White monkey paw;
Yellow tea (allowed to stay and yellow due to the slow drying stage, processed not far from that of the Green Tea): Junshan Yinzhen and Huoshan Huangya;
Post-fermented tea (that which undergoes "aging" for several months to even a number of years as exposed to the open to progress it to be more oxidized): Puerh; and for those blended and flavored teas (those that are a combination of two or more kinds of tea to produce one): Earl Grey, English Breakfast, Irish Breakfast, Jasmine tea, Masala chai, and Russian Caravan.
To add more to your interest tea has benefits for your health.
You must already have in mind the exact kind of tea that you either want or need, most probably, by name or description. Whichever interests you will benefit you in some specific ways. But, still, how would you want to take it?
So you can choose between Tea bags, Pyramid tea bags, Loose tea, Compressed tea, Instant tea, and Canned tea. Through picking, withering, bruising, fermentation, fixation, sweltering, shaping, drying, and aging, in any way at all, the end product comes in the packages aforementioned.
Tea bags are tea containers that have a bag shape, are silk and has a drawstring. When used, it is dipped in hot water and the essence of the tea diffuses, flowing with the water thus adding taste and making flavored water. Tea bags are, more often than not, reused for a number of times until everything has been had. Because it is most convenient, it is somewhat most preferred, in a way. To point out a historical mark, the Tea Bag was noted to have been used in the year 1907, distributed by Thomas Sullivan, an American tea seller. It wasn't really much recognized for how it was used until sometime later on. It reached the mainstream during the times of World War II where it was made as means of food and much later on, year 1953, the Tetley tea manufacturers brought it into the United Kingdom.
Pyramid tea bags, with its unique shape, lets the contents expand more, thus allowing more taste to be had. In 1996, it was first introduced by the Lipton and PG Tips brand, called — more often than not — sachet.
Loose tea, gunpowder tea, is packed into canister containers, ready to be had via infusion bags, strainers, filtered teapots, and tea presses. These are usually available in aluminized containers that are kept or sold individually.
Compressed tea, also called "tea bricks", is a jam-packed type of tea. These are blocks of post-fermented tea, green tea or black tea. They pressed, compressed tightly, making a brick form. Used in by the ancient Chinese, and even up to present time, compressed tea as beverage can be consumed by grinding, whisking and toasting.
First introduced by Nestea, Instant tea is a far more convenient approach to tea consumption. Best of all, this instant tea does not require one to have boiling water. True that iced was first commercialized in the year 1953, but, to date back to its origin, it was first made during the 1930s and by 1946 Nestea introduced the first instant tea.
Canned tea is a rather ready-to-drink kind of tea, by means of "canning" — preservation via air-tight container. Despite the lack of freshness and cost in shipment, this here Canned Tea is far more convenient than the other types merely because there is no preparation time at all. You just open it and have yourself a refreshing drink. The types would be Oolong, Black and Green Tea and is most appealing.
Whether you're from Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Antarctica, Europe, or Australia, tea is most welcome in your home. You can have it with friends, family and other — basically everybody — in any way you'd prefer it. It can be by Tea bags, Pyramid tea bags, Loose tea, Compressed tea, Instant tea, or Canned tea. You name it.
But, first, let me tell you something about tea. Tea is a product of a processed Camellia sinensis leaves by way of oxidation. There are many kinds to choose from: there's the Black tea, Oolong tea, Green tea, White tea, Yellow tea, Post-fermented tea and those blended and flavored teas. Each of them has undergone different processing and so each of them smells, tastes and feels different.
Moreover, to introduce you to the vast world of tea, the aforementioned kinds have subtypes. For Black Tea (that which has undergone a more extensive oxidation processing than oolong, green, and white tea) there's: Assam, Bohea, Ceylon, Darjeeling, Dian Hong, Keemun, Lapsang souchong, Nepalese, Nilgiri, Orange pekoe, Red tea, Tibeti, Turkish, and Ying De Hong;
Oolong tea (a curled an twisted kind, withered under the scorching sun): Bai Ji Guan, Red Robe, Darjeeling Oolong, Dongding (Tung-ting), Dong Fang Mei Ren, Huangjin Gui (Golden Osmanthus), Qilan tea, Pouchong, Rou Gui, Shui Jin Gui, Shui Hsien (Shui Xian), Tie Luohan, and Tieguanyin (Iron Goddess);
Green Tea (that which has undergone the least fermentation): Aracha, Bancha, Green Spiral, Chun Mee, Da Fang, Genmaicha, Liuan Leaf, Gunpowder, Gyokuro, Hojicha, Hou Kui, Huang Shan Mao Feng, Hyson, Kabusecha, Kamairicha, Konacha, Kukicha, Dragon Well, Matcha, Mao Jian, Mecha, Meng Ding Gan Lu, Sencha, Shincha, and Tamaryokucha;
White tea (comes from the dainty buds and immature leaves of the Camellia sinensis, which are not allowed to wilt under the gaze of the sun to prevent extensive fermentation): Bai Hao Yinzhen, Bai Mu Dan, Darjeeling White, Shou Mei, and White monkey paw;
Yellow tea (allowed to stay and yellow due to the slow drying stage, processed not far from that of the Green Tea): Junshan Yinzhen and Huoshan Huangya;
Post-fermented tea (that which undergoes "aging" for several months to even a number of years as exposed to the open to progress it to be more oxidized): Puerh; and for those blended and flavored teas (those that are a combination of two or more kinds of tea to produce one): Earl Grey, English Breakfast, Irish Breakfast, Jasmine tea, Masala chai, and Russian Caravan.
To add more to your interest tea has benefits for your health.
You must already have in mind the exact kind of tea that you either want or need, most probably, by name or description. Whichever interests you will benefit you in some specific ways. But, still, how would you want to take it?
So you can choose between Tea bags, Pyramid tea bags, Loose tea, Compressed tea, Instant tea, and Canned tea. Through picking, withering, bruising, fermentation, fixation, sweltering, shaping, drying, and aging, in any way at all, the end product comes in the packages aforementioned.
Tea bags are tea containers that have a bag shape, are silk and has a drawstring. When used, it is dipped in hot water and the essence of the tea diffuses, flowing with the water thus adding taste and making flavored water. Tea bags are, more often than not, reused for a number of times until everything has been had. Because it is most convenient, it is somewhat most preferred, in a way. To point out a historical mark, the Tea Bag was noted to have been used in the year 1907, distributed by Thomas Sullivan, an American tea seller. It wasn't really much recognized for how it was used until sometime later on. It reached the mainstream during the times of World War II where it was made as means of food and much later on, year 1953, the Tetley tea manufacturers brought it into the United Kingdom.
Pyramid tea bags, with its unique shape, lets the contents expand more, thus allowing more taste to be had. In 1996, it was first introduced by the Lipton and PG Tips brand, called — more often than not — sachet.
Loose tea, gunpowder tea, is packed into canister containers, ready to be had via infusion bags, strainers, filtered teapots, and tea presses. These are usually available in aluminized containers that are kept or sold individually.
Compressed tea, also called "tea bricks", is a jam-packed type of tea. These are blocks of post-fermented tea, green tea or black tea. They pressed, compressed tightly, making a brick form. Used in by the ancient Chinese, and even up to present time, compressed tea as beverage can be consumed by grinding, whisking and toasting.
First introduced by Nestea, Instant tea is a far more convenient approach to tea consumption. Best of all, this instant tea does not require one to have boiling water. True that iced was first commercialized in the year 1953, but, to date back to its origin, it was first made during the 1930s and by 1946 Nestea introduced the first instant tea.
Canned tea is a rather ready-to-drink kind of tea, by means of "canning" — preservation via air-tight container. Despite the lack of freshness and cost in shipment, this here Canned Tea is far more convenient than the other types merely because there is no preparation time at all. You just open it and have yourself a refreshing drink. The types would be Oolong, Black and Green Tea and is most appealing.
Whether you're from Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Antarctica, Europe, or Australia, tea is most welcome in your home. You can have it with friends, family and other — basically everybody — in any way you'd prefer it. It can be by Tea bags, Pyramid tea bags, Loose tea, Compressed tea, Instant tea, or Canned tea. You name it.
Know the Spirit of Tea
Tea, in a sense, brings about a wholly religious and cultural experience. From the moment one takes a slight sip from a cup to the point when one has had it to one's full satisfaction. With respect to all tea drinkers out there, here is the essence of tea drinking.
In almost all parts of the world, tea drinking has never been without personal style and glamour. Perhaps, moreover, some might have even considered ethics and manners. There has been Chinese Tea Arts, Japanese Tea Ceremony, Korean Tea Ritual and British Tea Culture or tea party for as long as we could remember. These practices had been long with various sophistication and ethnicity that it is well honored and respected from generations to generations, from time and time again. It is most comforting to know that, even in this aspect of human behavior, we are one and the same through the drinking of tea.
The Chinese Tea Arts has been well known worldwide for its simplicity and meaningfulness. So much so that other cultures have adapted to it.
It is said that the Chinese are one of the tea pioneers and were once the leading expert when it comes to tea drinking. In fact, they have had this Chinese Tea Arts for a really long time. This Tea Ceremony has not only been a thing of the past but is still practiced up to now, not merely ceremony but culture as well.
In China, people drink tea to pay their respects to their elders, during family get-togethers, as a sign of reconciliation, to bond with long missed relatives or during wedding days. Tea drinking in China has been both a done on a daily routine and can be for matters of occasion.
The term tea in itself has had the origin of being called so from the idea that it comes from either an herb or a tree — or both.
As a sign of respect, it has been Chinese custom for someone of a lower rank to serve tea to the superior. It implies observance of recognition and willingness to do. But, now, after much time has passed since the olden times and traditionalism, service of tea has been different. In a way, even with respect, the boss might serve his subordinates in any given place — it might be in an office, a restaurant or at home, as a sign of welcoming respect. As, before, elders were served with tea, so now the young too are served. Still, tea drinking, as a sign of respect, does well in showing a loving gesture.
During family get-togethers, usually on a Sunday, it is in Chinese custom to meet up with their parents and have tea together. Since before and now that, moreover, children are married or find jobs elsewhere, they don't usually see or converse much with their parents anymore. Being grandparents even, some don't have the luxury of time to spend with their grandchildren. Whenever there's a meeting of such, between parents and children or grandparents and grandchildren, tea has been an appropriate beverage served.
It is most seen, even in the movies, that tea has been used to reconcile with friends, family or anyone else. As a sign of deep regret or humility, one would usually express one's sincerity with the pouring of tea for the offended and serving it. This gesture can be seen in a student and master relationship, a non-marital or marital romantic relationship, work, in close family ties, and in friendship. An act of submission so simple, exemplified by tea service alone.
As marriage, ever since the dawn of history, is a great deal of commitment, so does tea play a vital role in the expression of a long-term union. This goes for the wedding ceremony. It is tradition that the groom and the wife serve tea to their parents. It would therefore imply their gratitude and commitment, moreover, when said would be, "We thank you for taking care for us up to this day of our marriage and we owe you this." The wife would serve tea to the groom's parents to signify her being a part of the groom's family. As, then, the parents would usually take a slight sip on the tea and hand the couple a monetary gift in the form of a red envelope. This is one important role that tea has. Even in true love, there is tea.
Usually, in social gatherings and reunions, service tea is served in the Chinese culture. Tea compliments as well as tells the guests, "You are welcome here." In wedding ceremonies, tea is usually given by the couple themselves to the guests so that they may be called by their official title. The guests would then accept to agree of the couple's union. To do otherwise would be a sign of great disapproval and disrespect. The old married couples, when introduced, would then give red envelopes to the newly married and the newly married would do so the same to the unmarried. This shows how tea, indeed, plays a crucial role in this real life scenario — both in tradition and relations.
There is also the most notable tea gesture: the finger tapping. It originates from an old story that has been passed down from one generation to another. In a certain Chinese area, it is said that there lived this emperor who travelled many lands. It was understood that the servants would not reveal their superior's identity for various reasons, most probably safety. In a restaurant, one day, the emperor himself poured himself tea, and, together, he poured too into his servant's cup. By this, the servant was honored and wanted to kneel down to recognize this kind gesture. Unable to do so, thinking it would reveal his master's identity, as an instant reaction, the servant bent his fingers and knocked them on the table to acknowledge. In tradition, most often than not, the Chinese would do this peculiarly interesting finger tapping. In is most used to thank the tea server for the service of tea.
In the Chinese community tea has its place. With this, the people are grateful for it. So must we. This is the essence of tea and it will always be respected.
In almost all parts of the world, tea drinking has never been without personal style and glamour. Perhaps, moreover, some might have even considered ethics and manners. There has been Chinese Tea Arts, Japanese Tea Ceremony, Korean Tea Ritual and British Tea Culture or tea party for as long as we could remember. These practices had been long with various sophistication and ethnicity that it is well honored and respected from generations to generations, from time and time again. It is most comforting to know that, even in this aspect of human behavior, we are one and the same through the drinking of tea.
The Chinese Tea Arts has been well known worldwide for its simplicity and meaningfulness. So much so that other cultures have adapted to it.
It is said that the Chinese are one of the tea pioneers and were once the leading expert when it comes to tea drinking. In fact, they have had this Chinese Tea Arts for a really long time. This Tea Ceremony has not only been a thing of the past but is still practiced up to now, not merely ceremony but culture as well.
In China, people drink tea to pay their respects to their elders, during family get-togethers, as a sign of reconciliation, to bond with long missed relatives or during wedding days. Tea drinking in China has been both a done on a daily routine and can be for matters of occasion.
The term tea in itself has had the origin of being called so from the idea that it comes from either an herb or a tree — or both.
As a sign of respect, it has been Chinese custom for someone of a lower rank to serve tea to the superior. It implies observance of recognition and willingness to do. But, now, after much time has passed since the olden times and traditionalism, service of tea has been different. In a way, even with respect, the boss might serve his subordinates in any given place — it might be in an office, a restaurant or at home, as a sign of welcoming respect. As, before, elders were served with tea, so now the young too are served. Still, tea drinking, as a sign of respect, does well in showing a loving gesture.
During family get-togethers, usually on a Sunday, it is in Chinese custom to meet up with their parents and have tea together. Since before and now that, moreover, children are married or find jobs elsewhere, they don't usually see or converse much with their parents anymore. Being grandparents even, some don't have the luxury of time to spend with their grandchildren. Whenever there's a meeting of such, between parents and children or grandparents and grandchildren, tea has been an appropriate beverage served.
It is most seen, even in the movies, that tea has been used to reconcile with friends, family or anyone else. As a sign of deep regret or humility, one would usually express one's sincerity with the pouring of tea for the offended and serving it. This gesture can be seen in a student and master relationship, a non-marital or marital romantic relationship, work, in close family ties, and in friendship. An act of submission so simple, exemplified by tea service alone.
As marriage, ever since the dawn of history, is a great deal of commitment, so does tea play a vital role in the expression of a long-term union. This goes for the wedding ceremony. It is tradition that the groom and the wife serve tea to their parents. It would therefore imply their gratitude and commitment, moreover, when said would be, "We thank you for taking care for us up to this day of our marriage and we owe you this." The wife would serve tea to the groom's parents to signify her being a part of the groom's family. As, then, the parents would usually take a slight sip on the tea and hand the couple a monetary gift in the form of a red envelope. This is one important role that tea has. Even in true love, there is tea.
Usually, in social gatherings and reunions, service tea is served in the Chinese culture. Tea compliments as well as tells the guests, "You are welcome here." In wedding ceremonies, tea is usually given by the couple themselves to the guests so that they may be called by their official title. The guests would then accept to agree of the couple's union. To do otherwise would be a sign of great disapproval and disrespect. The old married couples, when introduced, would then give red envelopes to the newly married and the newly married would do so the same to the unmarried. This shows how tea, indeed, plays a crucial role in this real life scenario — both in tradition and relations.
There is also the most notable tea gesture: the finger tapping. It originates from an old story that has been passed down from one generation to another. In a certain Chinese area, it is said that there lived this emperor who travelled many lands. It was understood that the servants would not reveal their superior's identity for various reasons, most probably safety. In a restaurant, one day, the emperor himself poured himself tea, and, together, he poured too into his servant's cup. By this, the servant was honored and wanted to kneel down to recognize this kind gesture. Unable to do so, thinking it would reveal his master's identity, as an instant reaction, the servant bent his fingers and knocked them on the table to acknowledge. In tradition, most often than not, the Chinese would do this peculiarly interesting finger tapping. In is most used to thank the tea server for the service of tea.
In the Chinese community tea has its place. With this, the people are grateful for it. So must we. This is the essence of tea and it will always be respected.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Interview on Super Human Radio
Today, I did an audio interview with Carl Lanore of Super Human Radio. Carl seems like a sharp guy who focuses on physical fitness, nutrition, health and aging. We talked mostly about food reward and body fatness-- I think it went well. Carl went from obese to fit, and his fat loss experience lines up well with the food reward concept. As he was losing fat rapidly, he told friends that he had "divorced from flavor", eating plain chicken, sweet potatoes and oatmeal, yet he grew to enjoy simple food over time.
The interview is here. It also includes an interview of Dr. Matthew Andry about Dr. Loren Cordain's position on dairy; my interview starts at about 57 minutes. Just to warn you, the website and podcast are both full of ads.
The interview is here. It also includes an interview of Dr. Matthew Andry about Dr. Loren Cordain's position on dairy; my interview starts at about 57 minutes. Just to warn you, the website and podcast are both full of ads.
Green Rice
(makes 6-8 servings)
Ingredients:
- ½ cup tightly packed fresh cilantro sprigs
- ½ cup tightly packed spinach leaves, stemmed and thoroughly washed
- 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Non-fat cooking spray
- 1 chopped onion
- 2 chopped garlic cloves
- 1½ cups long-grain white rice
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
Preparation:
- Place cilantro, spinach and chicken broth in a blender and puree until smooth.
- Spray a large-size saucepan with cooking spray and heat over medium-heat. Add onion and cook until softened and translucent (about 8 minutes). Add garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add rice and stir to coat evenly. Add spinach mixture and bring to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed (about 20 minutes).
- Turn off heat and let stand for about 5 minutes. Add cayenne pepper and fluff with a fork.
Make 8 Servings:
Weight loss recipes Amount Per Serving(⅛ of recipe (129 g)): 146 Calories, 4 g Protein, 30 g carbohydrates, 1 g Dietary Fiber, 1 g fat, 0 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 28 mg sodiumThe Green Tea Experience
First, it was with the Chinese. Now it's with the whole world. The Camellia sinensis leaves, ever since the discovery of tea, has ever been so widely recognized. It's truly a wonder just how man came up with this idea. But, nevertheless, we must be more than glad that our ancestors once pursued the interest because we are now enjoying the privileges of what nature has to offer. Green Tea is the processing of the Camellia sinensis leaves with minimal oxidation, thereby making it all the more organic. Being natural and all, Green Tea is the top choice of tea drinkers of this new age. Experience it for yourself.
For one, Green Tea has been popular with diet, for ages. For ages and for people with different ages. You might be years young or years old, either way; Green Tea can work for you. As you age, your body does little to the least metabolism. It's a part of the body's normal wear and tear. You get to store more fat. With Green Tea, it assists in a way wherein your metabolism is increased by a sure number and it does well efficiently and effectively. Guaranteed. Lucky for you there's this thermogenesis that Green Tea has. It's when the body produces heat. Heat production equals faster metabolism and fat and cholesterol burning. With bad cholesterol gone you'd be helping your heart. All the more you live longer. Thanks to Green Tea.
It's a matter of prevention. With Green Tea, given that there's fast metabolism and weight loss, you'll be preventing lots of diseases. With blood and the heart, there's prevention of Multiple Sclerosis, Heart Attack, Atherosclerosis and Hypertension. Thanks to Green Tea's cathecins and polyphenols, the natural antioxidants, all of these things are made possible. Prevention and cure is better than prevention alone, as well said.
Let's get back to drinking. You drink because you're thirsty. You want to quench your thirst. Why not water? Why Green Tea? Green Tea does wonders that water can't. First off, it quenches your thirst and has this taste to it. Second, with the vitamins and minerals it contains, it does you more than water. Green Tea has Vitamin C, D, E, and A, and also some B vitamin, that boosts the body's immune system and functioning.
You are not ever deeply depressed with Green Tea considering its property that is a stimulant to the brain that prevents diseases like Parkinson's. Green Tea has these so called theanine and caffeine that boosts brain activity, thus acts to support degenerative diseases and enhances functioning. As you are getting older, so does your brain. It's best to have something that can help you out in your thought process to have you thinking straight even if you happen to have a certain difficulty. In the sense of being a student, this can be used to enhance your concentration during your study. This can assist you in your reading and comprehension, and likewise attention. This is what Green Tea can do for you.
As people are natural eaters, one can say that there will always be that gluttonous intent, most especially if the food that you have more than interests you. Though it might not be a true excuse to have everything you want to eat or to eat all at once, Green Tea can help you out in your digestion, processing food inside of you and eliminating the waste products through the system of detoxification. The least body waste you have in you, the more you are always good to go.
To dwell more on brain enhancement, the combined efforts of theanine and caffeine bring about wondrous effects. For one, there is also this sexual support. Intercourse has been that big of an issue for both men and women, that both sexes have this certain want and need to improve more on themselves as well as to get the drive they deserve. It's a good thing Green Tea exactly has this. Dopamine is what regulates the pleasure and reward sense and it's the main thing that we need to feel that improvement that most have been looking for. Green Tea boosts dopamine levels thereby activating more impulses, making pleasure realized. Thus it boosts stamina and will. It brings about natural urges. It is no wonder why it has been part of culture and has been a worldwide phenomenon. It literally helps procreation and, moreover, lengthens our existence. Who know that something so simple can be all the more complex? Remarkable, indeed.
The real experience starts when Green Tea is taken in. Yes, when you drink it, it's when you can really taste the goodness in your mouth. Basically, Green Tea has a limited number of tastes but the meaning entirely relies on the taster. This tea can taste a bit grassy or sweet. That depends, actually, on who tastes it and who gives meaning to it. Nonetheless, this Green Tea can taste understandable to even alluring. The same goes with its smell. It can sink into your nostrils and you might breathe it in with a bit of comfort or it can be just a passing pleasure that means a lot. Either way, this Green Tea is for you. Try to take as much sips and gulps as you can to realize the full potential and flavor that this can possibly deliver straight to your inner being. Taste and be satisfied with the fragrance and zest. You are going to like this.
On top of it all, you can be proud to call yourself a Green Tea drinker, having had it, because it is evaluated as the first in the list of most consumed drinks in the world. It can be for the common man up to those who have a place in society. Simple to say, it's for everybody. That is how Green Tea is.
Experience the goodness that life has to offer.
Have a go at Green Tea.
Green Tea has many benefits to mention. Too many, to be exact. By that it is well said that it's best experienced and be one with it.
For one, Green Tea has been popular with diet, for ages. For ages and for people with different ages. You might be years young or years old, either way; Green Tea can work for you. As you age, your body does little to the least metabolism. It's a part of the body's normal wear and tear. You get to store more fat. With Green Tea, it assists in a way wherein your metabolism is increased by a sure number and it does well efficiently and effectively. Guaranteed. Lucky for you there's this thermogenesis that Green Tea has. It's when the body produces heat. Heat production equals faster metabolism and fat and cholesterol burning. With bad cholesterol gone you'd be helping your heart. All the more you live longer. Thanks to Green Tea.
It's a matter of prevention. With Green Tea, given that there's fast metabolism and weight loss, you'll be preventing lots of diseases. With blood and the heart, there's prevention of Multiple Sclerosis, Heart Attack, Atherosclerosis and Hypertension. Thanks to Green Tea's cathecins and polyphenols, the natural antioxidants, all of these things are made possible. Prevention and cure is better than prevention alone, as well said.
Let's get back to drinking. You drink because you're thirsty. You want to quench your thirst. Why not water? Why Green Tea? Green Tea does wonders that water can't. First off, it quenches your thirst and has this taste to it. Second, with the vitamins and minerals it contains, it does you more than water. Green Tea has Vitamin C, D, E, and A, and also some B vitamin, that boosts the body's immune system and functioning.
You are not ever deeply depressed with Green Tea considering its property that is a stimulant to the brain that prevents diseases like Parkinson's. Green Tea has these so called theanine and caffeine that boosts brain activity, thus acts to support degenerative diseases and enhances functioning. As you are getting older, so does your brain. It's best to have something that can help you out in your thought process to have you thinking straight even if you happen to have a certain difficulty. In the sense of being a student, this can be used to enhance your concentration during your study. This can assist you in your reading and comprehension, and likewise attention. This is what Green Tea can do for you.
As people are natural eaters, one can say that there will always be that gluttonous intent, most especially if the food that you have more than interests you. Though it might not be a true excuse to have everything you want to eat or to eat all at once, Green Tea can help you out in your digestion, processing food inside of you and eliminating the waste products through the system of detoxification. The least body waste you have in you, the more you are always good to go.
To dwell more on brain enhancement, the combined efforts of theanine and caffeine bring about wondrous effects. For one, there is also this sexual support. Intercourse has been that big of an issue for both men and women, that both sexes have this certain want and need to improve more on themselves as well as to get the drive they deserve. It's a good thing Green Tea exactly has this. Dopamine is what regulates the pleasure and reward sense and it's the main thing that we need to feel that improvement that most have been looking for. Green Tea boosts dopamine levels thereby activating more impulses, making pleasure realized. Thus it boosts stamina and will. It brings about natural urges. It is no wonder why it has been part of culture and has been a worldwide phenomenon. It literally helps procreation and, moreover, lengthens our existence. Who know that something so simple can be all the more complex? Remarkable, indeed.
The real experience starts when Green Tea is taken in. Yes, when you drink it, it's when you can really taste the goodness in your mouth. Basically, Green Tea has a limited number of tastes but the meaning entirely relies on the taster. This tea can taste a bit grassy or sweet. That depends, actually, on who tastes it and who gives meaning to it. Nonetheless, this Green Tea can taste understandable to even alluring. The same goes with its smell. It can sink into your nostrils and you might breathe it in with a bit of comfort or it can be just a passing pleasure that means a lot. Either way, this Green Tea is for you. Try to take as much sips and gulps as you can to realize the full potential and flavor that this can possibly deliver straight to your inner being. Taste and be satisfied with the fragrance and zest. You are going to like this.
On top of it all, you can be proud to call yourself a Green Tea drinker, having had it, because it is evaluated as the first in the list of most consumed drinks in the world. It can be for the common man up to those who have a place in society. Simple to say, it's for everybody. That is how Green Tea is.
Experience the goodness that life has to offer.
Have a go at Green Tea.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)