Grounding Tea Ritual

Assistant Director of Wellness Meghan Henley knows the power of a small moment. When she’s guiding guests or moving through her own practices, she looks for opportunities we may often overlook that can serve as a reminder to be present, to focus.

Rather than trying to fit a certain practice into your routine, you can explore grounding rituals that feel authentic to your day and your story. It can be something as comfortable as sipping your favorite tea. Get Meghan’s recommendation for a delicious seasonal tea blend and a perfect practice for the colder, quieter moments of the approaching Winter.

Seasonal Tea Blend:
“One of my favorite Winter tea blends is elderberry, chamomile and rose. Rose and elderberry both contain antioxidants and vitamin C to give the body an immune boost during Winter months. Chamomile and rose promote a calming effect, lower stress and can improve quality of sleep. The simplest of recipes is equal parts of all three – around one tablespoon. Steep for 10-12 minutes and enjoy with the following grounding tea ritual before bed.”

At-Home Grounding Practice:
“Find a comfortable seat in a chair or on a cushion. With your favorite teacup placed in front of you, spend a moment noticing anything visually. Is there steam rising from the cup? Notice the shape of your teacup. What is it that you love about this cup? Keep your focus on this visual for three full breath cycles.

When you are ready, pick up the tea to feel its warmth in your hands. Close your eyes to allow even more awareness of the temperature of the cup. Take a moment to notice the aromas. With your eyes still closed, take a small sip of your tea, describing the flavors to yourself. What can you notice? What do you taste? Savor and enjoy this moment in time.

Sip your tea when called but try not to rush the process. Keep bringing your awareness back to your breath, back to the taste and back to your practice of present moment gratitude.”

- Meghan Henley, Assistant Director of Wellness