In the fast-paced world we live in today, with its constant technological advancements and ever-increasing demands, finding moments of peace and grounding can be challenging. However, throughout history, humans have always turned to rituals to find solace in the chaos of life.
The essence of rituals lies in their intention, they serve as meaningful practices that help us connect with something greater than ourselves.
The art of ritual of the tea ceremony, also known as chado or sado, is a centuries-old tradition deeply rooted in Japanese culture. It is a ceremonial practice that embodies harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. At the heart of the tea ceremony is matcha, a powdered green tea that is prepared and served in a specific manner.
A tea ceremony is a ceremonial practice centered around the preparation and serving of matcha. It is a highly ritualized and choreographed event that focuses on mindfulness and presence. The tea ceremony is often seen as a form of meditation, allowing participants to connect with themselves, others, and the natural world.
I will never forget my first tea ceremony. While working for a Japanese design firm in 2016, I was invited to a chado to experience the art of ceremony. My boss at the time said Sen no Rikyu, the Japanese tea master who is considered the father of the tea ceremony, was the first ever Creative Director and the experience was a must for all designers.
I was floored by the beauty and mindfulness that went into the seemingly mundane task of making a cup of tea – something I did every morning in less than 3 minutes. It was a type of meditation I had never witnessed before.
There is so much to learn about mindfulness from the tea ceremony
Mindfulness is a fundamental aspect of the tea ceremony. What takes many under 5 minutes in the morning is extended to over 30 minutes. Participants are encouraged to be fully present in the moment, observing and appreciating each action and sensation. By practicing mindfulness, one can cultivate a sense of calm and inner peace, allowing for a deeper connection with oneself and the surrounding environment. The craft also makes the cup of tea feel sacred, a vibrational level up from your regular.
What does the tea ceremony have to do with cannabis?
At their core, they are both plant medicine ceremonies. By practicing mindfulness, cultivating a sense of tranquility, and setting intention you can incorporate the principles of the tea ceremony into your cannabis use.
Rituals and the connections they cultivate are more important now than ever. In an increasingly digital world, where face-to-face interactions are often replaced by virtual ones, rituals, provide an opportunity to connect on a deeper, more meaningful level.
I walked away from my first tea ceremony wondering what in my life I could make a ritual around. I started with my morning tea, moving more mindfully and consuming with more intention instead of the to-go mug I would bring on the subway and quickly adapted the same reverence for my favorite plant – cannabis.
By incorporating rituals, whether tea or cannabis, into our daily lives, we cultivate mindfulness and a deeper appreciation for the present moment. They serve as gentle reminders to slow down and embrace the beauty and significance of each passing moment, allowing us to rediscover the magic in the seemingly mundane.
Check out our classes for opportunities to share a mindful moment together.