Because the solution to this so-deemed problem is more of the ‘change your perspective’ kind than anything else (after all, I’ve got enough problems without needing to contend with an astronomical entity of hot plasma with magnetic fields), I know this is the time where I give myself a little boost to stay focused on track. This is the time when I fall back on my rituals.
One of these is my morning tea. While I have always enjoyed a cup in the morning (more out of a habitual need for caffeine), I have not stopped to really appreciate it; to see the leaves within the teabag unfurl and slowly release their beautiful russet tones into the hot water; to watch the steam rising like a delicate tendril while the bag steeps, and to savor the warmth of the aroma and flavor.
They say tea was discovered accidentally, over 3000 years ago by a Chinese Emperor, who found his very first cup to be an invigorating brew. Legend or otherwise, medicinal attributes and trade spread the cultivation of this miraculous plant as a crop, as well as a cultural icon.
It is no wonder then, that I find tea to be so fascinating. Several thousand years since, tea-lovers like myself still revel in its restorative and warming capabilities; and in an age of constant change and ‘upgrade’ , the tactile sensation of holding something that has not changed very much since its discovery is very grounding. Not to mention, how comforting the warm cup feels in my often frozen hands.
Perhaps I romanticize the mundane here; but getting a balance on perspective; a different outlook; and most of all, an appreciation for the simple things that I might otherwise take for granted- is what helps keep me composed and takes my mind off the negative.
The ritual in itself is nothing special – I brew the tea and add a splash of milk to it-but this time of the year, I treat myself to a little something more-a drop or so of honey. I don’t need a sweetener in my tea usually, but it sure feels like a treat this time.
It’s simple and inconsequential, but it helps awaken my mind and let go of any budding irritability and ‘down-ness’; if but momentarily.
I may not enjoy another single such moment of peace for the rest of the day, but for that little one, I was shrouded in a warmth and comfort like no other.
What are your morning rituals? What is that one thing you might do, to keep from those winter morning drudgeries?
I think I need to discover a ritual because on a usual work day the morning caffeine and food feel like an after thought and I feel like I just stumbled to work.
The shots look great, honey. I can feel the cup warming my hands just looking at it.
Thank-uh you~~~ Rituals are what make life a bit more tolerant, I think. Finding those steady things that have no strings attached, amidst all the chaos..
I guess I’m as cliched a South Indian as they come…. Me for filter coffee every time. Brewed, never instant.
I drink tea too, but at work, because the coffee is dire.
Ha – dire coffee is what got me switched to tea many years ago, actually…! I still enjoy a cup of the good ol’ filter Kaapi (very) occasionally myself, but I think tea has become a part of my life now..:-)