Bringing Mindful Tea Ceremony Into Everyday Life

When I stood in front of the audience at **Connichi Wiesbaden 2025**, I could feel the curiosity in the room. Some people wore colorful cosplay, others came simply to learn, but all shared the same spark: a wish to understand matcha and the Japanese tea ceremony.  

In my workshop, I introduced the idea of an *easy mindful tea ceremony at home*. While the traditional forms are rich with history and detail, you don’t need a tea room or a full set of utensils to experience the heart of the practice.  

At its core, tea ceremony is about wa, kei, sei, jaku — harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. And these can be found even in the smallest ritual:  

• Taking a breath before preparing tea  
• Listening to the soft sound of the whisk moving in the bowl  
• Noticing the rising steam and the vibrant green of matcha  
• Offering a sip to yourself with gratitude  

By paying attention to these details, a few minutes of making tea at home can transform into a moment of mindfulness — a pause in the middle of a busy day.  

Connichi reminded me how powerful it is to share this message. Many participants told me they never thought they could “do tea ceremony” themselves. But by the end, they realized they already could: simply, gently, in their own kitchens.  

A Simple Home Ritual: Matcha in 5 Steps

You don’t need to follow every tradition. Start with this small ritual:  

1. Prepare your space
   Clear a little corner of your table. Place your tea bowl or favorite cup in front of you.  

2. Measure and pause
   Add 1–2 scoops of matcha (about 2g) into the bowl. Before adding water, take a deep breath.  

3. Add water with intention
   Pour in a small amount of hot water (around 70–80°C). Notice the sound and steam.  

4. Whisk mindfully
   Using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or even a small kitchen whisk, move your hand gently until the matcha becomes smooth and frothy. Listen to the rhythm.  

5. Drink with gratitude 
   Lift the bowl, take a sip slowly, and enjoy the vibrant taste. Imagine offering thanks — to the tea, to yourself, to the moment.  

Even a few minutes spent like this can create calm and presence. This is what I mean by an *easy mindful tea ceremony at home* — not perfection, but intention.  

I hope you’ll try it, and if you do, I’d love to hear how it felt for you. 🌿🍵