Guest Host: Suzette Hammond

“Applying non-violence to your body is not merely a means to practice mindfulness – it is a practice in itself.“ – Thich Nhat Hanh, Vietnamese Zen Master

This workshop is about understanding the value of stillness offered by a tea meditation practice. Includes lecture about the form and function of meditation, plus guided exercises with tea drinking, with the goal of creating a very adaptable, easy to follow daily mindfulness practice. Beginner friendly, inclusive and trauma-sensitive - no previous tea or meditation experience required.

The practice of tea gives us the ability to dwell in “calm alertness,” a state of being where we are poised yet very calm. It does this in a physically felt, biological level – that which we can understand through science – as well as through a philosophical, spiritual and emotional level.

Hosted by Suzette Hammond, an award-winning educator, professional trainer, and tea spiritual practitioner. Suzette has been deeply involved in the US tea industry since 2003, working with leading tea companies, trade organizations and non-profits. She is the founder of Being Tea - an education-focused small business offering tea skills training, sensory-rich workshops, online teaching, and project support.

Tickets at $10. Get it here. All ticket proceedings go to BailProject.

The ticket does not include tea.

We will recommend white tea, green tea, and green oolong tea for this workshop. Unflavored/unblended.

Suggested equipment:

- Electric kettle and thermometer, if the kettle does not adjust water temperature.

- Small mug, bowl or tea bowl (about 8-10oz)

- Small dish or tray to put the tea leaves on before brewing

- Journal for personal notes

- Gaiwan, serving pitcher and small tasting cup optional for brewing tea in this way, too