It is called chanoyu or sado in Japanese and it is a beautiful and complicated art form that goes back hundreds of years. The tea ceremony comes from Zen Buddhism and is more than just drinking tea. It is also about ethics, philosophy and art. Respect for the host, the guests and the tea tools is at the heart of the ceremony. Knowing and following proper behavior rules is essential to enjoy and participate in a tea ceremony. Here are some things you should and shouldn’t do to have a smooth experience.
Do’s
Arrive On Time
In many cultures being on time is a sign of respect. The tea ceremony is no different. Being on time for the ceremony shows that you appreciate the host work and are excited to participate. It also helps the ceremony stay on track and ensures it goes off without a hitch at the beginning or end. It is polite to let the host know as soon as possible if you will be late so as not to bother them.
Observe Silence
A big part of the tea ceremony is keeping quiet, letting the people thoroughly enjoy the experience. If you stay silent you can enjoy the charm of the scene, the sound of water boiling and the host’s delicate movements. Being calm also helps you be more mindful which means you can focus on the present and enjoy the simple act of drinking tea.
Follow The Host Lead
The host is critical in the tea ceremony because they lead the guests through each step with style and accuracy. It is essential to do what the host says to show respect for them and the tradition. Please pay attention to how they make the tea, serve it and talk to the guests. By doing the same things they do you can show your appreciation for their hard work and get more out of the ceremony.
Respect The Tea And Utensils
During a tea ceremony tea and the tools used to make it are considered holy. You should show them respect and awe. When someone gives you a bowl of tea, hold it with both hands to show your appreciation. Try not to splash or spill the tea as that could be seen as rude. After drinking the tea carefully review the bowl and utensils to show you value their history and craftsmanship.
Maintain Proper Posture
During a tea ceremony standing up straight is essential because it shows respect and attention. Kneel on a cushion and rest your buttocks on your heels to sit in a seiza style. This position helps you stay focused and lets you move gracefully when giving and receiving tea. If you don’t want to look disrespectful or take away from the solemnity of the ceremony don’t slouch or lean on your hand.
Express Gratitude
At different points in the tea ceremony thank the host for being kind and skilled. When given a tea bowl, bow a little to show your thanks. You can also say nice things about the tea or the tools letting them know you noticed how hard they worked to make them. By thanking the host you show that you appreciate them and add to the overall feeling of appreciation and harmony.
Engage With The Host
It is not enough to drink tea at the tea ceremony; you can also talk to the host and other guests. Spend some time talking to the host and ask about the tea or the dishes. This shows that you care about and are interested in the ceremony. Talking to the host and other guests can also help you learn more about the tea ceremony and its meaning to the culture.
Practice Mindfulness
A big part of the tea ceremony is mindfulness which helps people be fully present in the present moment. As you participate in the ceremony, pay attention to your breath, the sound of the water boiling and the smell of the tea. Practicing mindfulness gives you a deeper understanding of the ceremony and a calm and peaceful inner state.
Reflect On The Experience
Please take a moment to think about what you learned during the tea ceremony after it is over. Think about how the ceremony made you feel what you liked and what you learned. Writing about your tea ceremony experience can help you appreciate it more and improve your future tea ceremony experiences.
Don’ts
Don’t Touch The Utensils
The tools used in the tea ceremony are often very old and fragile having been passed down from generation to generation. It might be rude to touch them without their permission since you could hurt or infect them. If you need to use a tool, wait until the host gives it or asks for your help.
Don’t Blow On The Tea
Blowing on hot food or drinks is rude in many cultures because it looks like you’re trying to cool them down too quickly. The tea served in a tea ceremony is the same way. Don’t blow on the tea to keep your mouth from getting burned. Instead let it cool down on its own or take small sips. This shows you are patient and care about the tea and the ceremony.
Don’t Refuse Hospitality
In the tea ceremony hospitality is significant and turning down an offer of tea or a snack can be seen as turning down the host’s kindness. Even if you’re not hungry or thirsty, taking them up on their offer is polite. Doing this can show appreciation for the host’s hard work and help the ceremony run smoothly.
Don’t Rush
The tea ceremony is a slow deliberate process meant to be enjoyed. Hurrying through the ceremony and finishing it quickly is not lovely. Instead take your time and enjoy every moment from making the tea to getting the last sip. You can fully enjoy the beauty and meaning of the tea ceremony if you slow down and become fully involved in the experience.
Don’t Make Noise
A big part of the tea ceremony is the silence which helps people focus on the moment and the taste and smell of the tea. Do not make noise that is not necessary like tapping your fingers or moving your feet around. This could make the ceremony less peaceful and show disrespect for the host and other guests. Instead enjoy the silence and let it help you appreciate the tea and the place where you are.
Don’t Criticize
Every step in the tea ceremony is planned and has a cultural meaning. It is based on hundreds of years of tradition. Criticizing or questioning the tools or methods used in the ceremony might be seen as disrespectful. Instead go to the ceremony ready to learn and with an open mind. If you follow the rules set by the ceremony leaders you can fully experience the tea ceremony and learn more about its cultural meaning.
Don’t Use Your Phone
In this digital world it is easy to want to check your phone or take pictures during the tea ceremony. However, using your phone during the ceremony is considered rude and detracts from the event’s seriousness. Not having your phone on you or leaving it in another room will help you focus on the experience much more.
Don’t Wear Strong Perfumes
There are many ways to experience the tea ceremony and strong perfumes can drown out the delicate scent of the tea. Do not wear strong perfumes or colognes to the tea ceremony. This could make it hard for other people to enjoy themselves. To keep the focus on the tea and the ceremony choose a scent that could be stronger or more at all.
Don’t Interrupt
It is essential to follow proper manners during the tea ceremony and not get in the way. Don’t talk out of turn or move quickly; this could make things less calm. If you need to leave the room or take a moment to yourself you should be quiet and respectful of the ceremony and the other guests.
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