At ENRICHD we love tea, we have curated a range of the highest quality organically sourced loose leaf tea to nourish body, mind and spirit. However, it is not just what is in the the cup that counts. The art of drinking tea and its process can have far reaching benefits. Used as an important cultural ceremony for thousands of years for that very reason and this is what modern research has to say. After-all, what is tea?
Tea is one of the most consumed beverages in the world, with millions of people enjoying it daily. Whether it’s the calm ritual of brewing a cup in the morning or the social act of sharing tea with friends, there is more to tea than just its taste. Drinking tea and the art of making it are not only comforting but can also have numerous health benefits that range from improving mental clarity to boosting heart health. This article explores how drinking tea can enhance your well-being and why taking the time to appreciate the art of making tea is equally valuable.
The Health Benefits of Drinking Tea
1. Antioxidant Properties and Disease Prevention
One of the primary health benefits of tea lies in its antioxidant content. Tea, particularly green tea, is rich in polyphenols—bioactive compounds that act as antioxidants. These antioxidants help protect the body’s cells from oxidative stress and free radical damage, which are linked to ageing and a variety of chronic diseases. Studies suggest that the polyphenols in tea can support heart health, reduce inflammation, and may even lower the risk of certain cancers.
A 2011 study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that green tea extract reduced the risk of heart disease by improving arterial function and lowering LDL cholesterol levels. Similarly, a review in Phytomedicine highlighted how green tea may help prevent type 2 diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels.
2. Cognitive Function and Mental Alertness
Drinking tea, particularly green or black tea, has been shown to improve mental clarity and cognitive function. The caffeine content in tea, while lower than coffee, offers a more sustained energy boost without the jitteriness. The presence of an amino acid called L-theanine in tea further enhances the effects of caffeine, promoting relaxation without drowsiness. This combination makes tea an ideal beverage for mental focus and alertness.
A study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that regular tea drinkers exhibited improved cognitive performance, particularly in tasks that required memory and concentration. Furthermore, some studies suggest that regular consumption of tea may lower the risk of cognitive decline and dementia in older adults. A study in The Journal of Alzheimer's Disease showed that those who drank tea regularly had a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease than those who did not.
3. Stress Reduction and Relaxation
The process of brewing tea is often described as meditative, providing a moment of calm in our busy lives. Beyond the act of making tea, drinking it can also help manage stress. Herbal teas like chamomile, lavender, and peppermint have natural properties that promote relaxation. Chamomile, for instance, is well-known for its ability to reduce anxiety and improve sleep.
A 2013 study published in Psychopharmacology concluded that chamomile extract significantly reduced symptoms of generalised anxiety disorder in participants. Similarly, a study in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine highlighted the calming effects of lavender tea, which is known to alleviate symptoms of stress and improve mood.
4. Heart Health Benefits
Several studies suggest that tea, especially green and black tea, can play a significant role in heart health. Drinking tea regularly may help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve blood vessel function, all of which contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system.
A 2013 study in The European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that tea drinkers had a lower risk of heart disease and stroke compared to those who did not drink tea. Another study in Circulation suggested that the flavonoids in tea might help lower blood pressure and improve overall heart function. The caffeine in tea has also been shown to stimulate the production of nitric oxide, which helps relax and dilate blood vessels, thus improving circulation.
The Art of Tea Making: A Health Ritual
While the health benefits of tea are important, the process of making tea is equally significant. The act of brewing tea can have a meditative effect, reducing stress and encouraging mindfulness. When you slow down to properly steep your tea, you engage in a simple yet profound practice that can help you connect with the present moment and calm your mind.
1. Mindfulness and Focus
The preparation of tea—whether it involves selecting the right leaves, measuring water temperature, or steeping the tea for the correct amount of time—requires attention to detail. This level of focus encourages mindfulness, a practice that has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental clarity. By paying attention to the sensory experience—such as the sound of the water boiling, the smell of the tea leaves, or the warmth of the cup—you engage fully in the moment, which can contribute to an overall sense of well-being.
A study published in Mindfulness found that engaging in mindful activities, such as preparing tea, can significantly reduce perceived stress levels and improve emotional regulation. This highlights that the art of making tea is not just about the drink itself but about fostering a mindful practice that can improve your mental health.
2. The Therapeutic Benefits of Tea Rituals
Tea rituals have long been embedded in many cultures around the world, from the Japanese tea ceremony to the British afternoon tea. These rituals provide more than just a physical benefit; they offer a sense of community, structure, and tranquility. Taking the time to prepare and enjoy a cup of tea as part of a ritual can bring a sense of calm and reduce feelings of chaos.
In Chinese and Japanese traditions, the tea ceremony is seen as a way to cultivate inner peace and harmony. The slow, deliberate actions of brewing and serving tea are designed to enhance the drinker's appreciation of the present moment, promoting relaxation and mindfulness. The health benefits of tea are amplified when it is consumed in a calm, deliberate manner rather than in haste.
3. Social Connection and Mental Health
Drinking tea can also promote social connection, which has profound benefits for mental health. Sharing a pot of tea with friends or family can be a way to strengthen bonds and create a sense of community. Studies have shown that socialising and maintaining strong relationships can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol and help to reduce the risk of depression and improve overall well-being.
Time for Tea
Incorporating tea into your daily routine can offer a wide array of health benefits, from enhancing cognitive function and reducing stress to improving heart health. However, the act of making tea itself holds immense value, as it promotes mindfulness, relaxation, and social connection. Whether you enjoy tea for its health benefits or as part of a ritual, the simple act of brewing and savouring a cup can be a powerful tool for enhancing your overall well-being. So, take the time to slow down, steep your tea, and enjoy not only the drink but the art of making it as well.