TEA became much more than a drink at Pathways Studio on Saturday 13 September, when the wellness space hosted a “Mindfulness Tea Tasting” in conjunction with the annual Dungog Tea Party.
Led by Dr Allen Crosson, Oriental Medicine Practitioner, the 90-minute workshop transformed a simple afternoon cuppa into a meditative ritual.
Participants were guided through a tasting of two green teas and two Oolong teas, learning optimal brewing times and water temperatures for each.
“We explored three levels of tasting to deepen the sensory experience,” Dr Crosson explained.
“Tea has the power to slow time, bring people into the present moment, and encourage real connection.”
The session celebrated the art of tea preparation, with guests experimenting with traditional Chinese and Japanese tea sets.
“The sight, smell and taste of each tea encouraged us to pause, observe and reflect,” said one participant.
“Strangers soon became friends.”
As steaming cups were shared, the group enjoyed haiku poetry from Japanese poet Bashō, with a dash of William Wordsworth for good measure.
Lively conversation flowed as attendees compared tasting notes and immersed themselves in the ritual of tea.
Only four of the seven specialty teas on offer were sampled, leaving plenty to explore next time.
Pathways Studio hinted at hosting a follow-up event soon and invited participants to bring along favourite poems or even their own original verses for a shared reading.
The event formed part of the wider Dungog Tea Party week, which saw locals and visitors gather to celebrate tea culture across the region.
With its focus on mindfulness, tradition, and connection, the workshop proved that tea is more than a beverage, it is a doorway to serenity.
By Shannon BENTON
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