You may have often hear the terms ‘Kung Fu tea’, which doesn’t necessarily relate to the Chinese martial arts but the art of tea brewing. It promotes the Chinese tea culture of taking the time to appreciate a good cup of tea. By using specific tea wares, it allows the tea leaves to release their full potential.
It usually begins from warming up the tea wares with hot water, and putting in the dry tea leaves with a few shakes. This step is considered a wake-up call for the tea leaves, that allows them to fully open up and stretch out their bodies.
Different tea wares are often recommended by the tea masters, as it helps bringing up the full taste for each tea. For example, a Pu’er tea requires high temperature to completely unfolds its tea leaves and wash out the natural dirts. However, we always believe that people shouldn’t feel restricted in the technicalities. No matter if you use a full tea set, a simple tea pot or tea egg, you can still enjoy the tea’s beauty in a way that you feel most comfortable.
The art and soul of Zen Buddhist
The Chinese tea ceremony is often associated with Zen principles due to its emphasis on mindfulness, simplicity, and the connection between the participants and nature. Both the Chinese tea ceremony and Zen philosophy place a strong emphasis on being present in the moment. The act of preparing and drinking tea becomes a meditative practice, encouraging participants to focus their attention on the present experience rather than being preoccupied with past or future thoughts.
Mindfulness and nature
While the origins of the Chinese tea ceremony predate the Zen Buddhist tradition, there are shared philosophical elements that contribute to the perception of Zen-like qualities in the ceremony. Zen philosophy often emphasizes harmony with nature, and this is reflected in the Chinese tea ceremony’s connection to the natural world. The choice of teas, the use of water, fire, and earth in the process, and the seasonal considerations all highlight the importance of aligning with the rhythms of nature. Both Zen and the Chinese tea ceremony involve intentional actions and rituals. Every step in the tea ceremony, from heating the water to steeping the tea leaves, is performed with care and purpose.
The deliberate and ritualistic nature of the ceremony contributes to a sense of mindfulness. The Chinese tea ceremony is often conducted in a calm and tranquil setting, providing a space for participants to find inner peace and relaxation. The deliberate pace of the ceremony allows for a retreat from the fast-paced external world. The Chinese tea ceremony encourages patience and attentiveness, reflecting the Zen principle of cultivating patience and mindfulness in everyday activities. Waiting for the tea to steep and appreciating each moment contribute to a sense of calm and centeredness.
How to perform a Chinese tea ceremony
Performing a Chinese tea ceremony involves a series of carefully orchestrated steps designed to highlight the beauty of the tea, create a serene atmosphere, and promote mindfulness. While there are various styles of Chinese tea ceremonies, here is a simplified guide to performing a Kung fu (Gongfu) tea ceremony, which is one of the traditional methods. You can make use of a Gai Wan (lidded bowl) or a small teapot for this process. While the majority of Chinese tea can be brewed using Gai Wan, it is recommended to use a Zisha Clay teapot for tea that requires high temperatures. Additionally, a Silver teapot has proven to have great effects in softening the water texture and bringing up the sweetness.
The essential steps in a Chinese tea ceremony
1. Prepare the Tea Set: Gather your teapot or gaiwan, teacups, tea tray, and other accessories. Warm the teapot or gaiwan by rinsing it with hot water and pouring the water over the cups and tea tray.
2. Heat the Teaware: Pour hot water into the teapot or gaiwan, teacups, and tea pitcher (if using). This warms the vessels and removes any residual odours.
3. Add Tea Leaves: Place the desired amount of tea leaves into the teapot or gaiwan. The amount of tea depends on personal preference, the type of tea, and the size of your teapot.
4. Rinse the Tea Leaves: Pour hot water over the tea leaves and quickly pour out the water. This helps “wake up” the tea leaves and removes any impurities.
5. First Infusion: Pour hot water over the tea leaves again, allowing the tea to steep for a short time (typically 10-30 seconds). Pour the tea into the tea pitcher or directly into the teacups.
6. Serve the Tea: Pour the tea from the tea pitcher or teapot into the teacups. The first infusion is often discarded to awaken the leaves and initiate the brewing process.
7. Subsequent Infusions: Continue steeping the tea for short durations, gradually increasing the steeping time with each infusion. The number of infusions depends on the tea type.
8. Appreciate the Tea: Take time to appreciate the aroma, colour, and flavour of the tea. Note the changes in each infusion.
9. Tea Pet Ritual (Optional): If you have a tea pet on the tea tray, pour some of the steeped tea over it as a symbolic gesture. This is a traditional aspect of some Chinese tea ceremonies.
10. Enjoy the Moment: Engage in conversation, savour the tea, and enjoy the tranquillity of the ceremony. The focus is on mindfulness and connection with the tea and those sharing the experience.
11. Clean-Up: After finishing the tea session, discard the used tea leaves, rinse the teaware, and clean the tea tray or plate.