Glossary
Anti-Aging Properties (Tea benefits)
The belief that tea can protect cells from damage and potentially slow down the aging process due to its antioxidant content.
Example:
Some studies suggest that tea's anti-aging properties contribute to longevity and cellular health.
Appreciate (Gongfu Cha step)
The final step in the Gongfu tea ceremony, focusing on savoring the tea's appearance, aroma, flavor, and texture.
Example:
Take a moment to appreciate the tea's delicate fragrance and lingering aftertaste.
Art form (Tea)
The elevated status of tea during the Song Dynasty, where its preparation, presentation, and appreciation became a refined cultural practice.
Example:
The intricate steps of the Gongfu Cha ceremony demonstrate how tea evolved into an art form in China.
Balance and Harmony (Fengshui)
The primary goals of Fengshui, achieved by arranging elements in a space to create a sense of equilibrium and positive energy.
Example:
The aim of Fengshui is to achieve balance and harmony in your environment, leading to improved well-being.
Black Tea (Red Tea)
A fully fermented Chinese tea characterized by its strong, robust flavor and darker liquor, often referred to as 'red tea' in China.
Example:
For a bold and invigorating start to the day, many prefer a cup of Black Tea.
Brew (Gongfu Cha step)
The second step in the Gongfu tea ceremony, where hot water is added to the tea leaves for a specific duration to extract flavor.
Example:
After rinsing, carefully brew the tea, paying attention to the water temperature and steeping time.
Buddhist Monks (Tea)
Individuals who played a significant role in introducing tea to China and linking it to spiritual practices and meditation.
Example:
Buddhist Monks often drank tea to stay awake and focused during long meditation sessions.
Emperor Shennong (Tea)
A legendary figure in Chinese mythology, credited with discovering tea and introducing agriculture and medicine to ancient China.
Example:
According to legend, Emperor Shennong accidentally discovered tea when leaves fell into his boiling water.
Fengshui
A traditional Chinese practice that arranges spaces and objects to optimize the flow of *qi* (energy) and create balance and harmony in an environment.
Example:
Applying Fengshui principles might involve placing furniture in a specific way to improve energy flow in a room.
Forbidden City (Fengshui example)
A historical imperial palace in Beijing, China, renowned for its design incorporating classical Fengshui principles.
Example:
The layout of the Forbidden City exemplifies good Fengshui, with its strategic placement and use of natural elements.
Gongfu Cha (Chinese Tea Ceremony)
A formal and aesthetic Chinese tea ritual that emphasizes the appreciation of tea through precise steps and specialized utensils.
Example:
Participating in a Gongfu Cha ceremony allows one to deeply appreciate the nuances of tea's flavor and aroma.
Green Tea
A popular type of Chinese tea that is unfermented, known for its delicate flavor, light color, and numerous health benefits.
Example:
Many people drink Green Tea daily for its refreshing taste and antioxidant properties.
Han Dynasty (Tea)
An ancient Chinese dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD) during which tea was initially used for its medicinal properties.
Example:
During the Han Dynasty, people might have brewed tea to help with digestion rather than for pleasure.
Hospitality (Tea)
The cultural practice in China where offering tea is a common gesture to show respect, welcome guests, and build connections.
Example:
When visiting a Chinese home, being offered a cup of tea is a warm sign of hospitality.
Medicinal Properties (Tea benefits)
The health-promoting qualities attributed to tea, such as improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and aiding in weight loss.
Example:
Tea is valued for its medicinal properties, often used as a natural remedy for minor ailments.
Medicinal drink (Tea)
The initial primary use of tea in China, particularly during the Han Dynasty, where it was consumed for its perceived health benefits.
Example:
Early Chinese texts describe tea as a medicinal drink used to treat various ailments and promote well-being.
Mental Clarity and Relaxation (Tea benefits)
The cognitive and calming effects of tea, believed to enhance focus and promote a sense of tranquility.
Example:
Drinking a warm cup of tea can promote mental clarity and relaxation, helping to calm a busy mind.
Natural Health Booster (Tea benefits)
Tea's role as a beneficial beverage rich in antioxidants and other compounds that support overall well-being.
Example:
Regular tea consumption is considered a natural health booster due to its rich antioxidant content.
Oolong Tea
A partially fermented Chinese tea that offers a complex flavor profile and aroma, often described as a blend between green and black teas.
Example:
Oolong Tea can range from light and floral to dark and roasted, offering a wide variety of tastes.
Popular social beverage (Tea)
Tea's role during the Tang Dynasty, where it became a common drink enjoyed by many for social gatherings and daily consumption.
Example:
By the Tang Dynasty, tea was no longer just for medicine but a popular social beverage shared among friends and family.
Pour (Gongfu Cha step)
The third step in the Gongfu tea ceremony, involving serving the freshly brewed tea into small individual cups.
Example:
Once brewed, pour the tea evenly into each cup, ensuring everyone receives a consistent taste.
Qi (Fengshui)
The vital life force or energy believed to flow through all things, central to the practice of Fengshui for creating balance.
Example:
In Fengshui, arranging your living space correctly can help ensure a smooth flow of positive qi.
Rinse (Gongfu Cha step)
The first step in the Gongfu tea ceremony, involving cleaning the tea leaves and warming the utensils with hot water.
Example:
Before brewing, you must rinse the tea leaves to awaken them and remove any impurities.
Song Dynasty (Tea)
A Chinese dynasty (960-1279 AD) known for elevating tea consumption into an art form, emphasizing its aesthetic appreciation and cultural significance.
Example:
The Song Dynasty saw the development of elaborate tea-whisking techniques, turning tea preparation into a refined artistic performance.
Tang Dynasty (Tea)
A prosperous Chinese dynasty (618-907 AD) where tea transitioned from a medicinal herb to a widely enjoyed social beverage.
Example:
In the Tang Dynasty, tea houses became popular gathering spots for friends to socialize and enjoy tea together.
Temple of Heaven (Fengshui example)
A complex of imperial religious buildings in Beijing, designed with Fengshui principles, situated in a prime location with natural features.
Example:
The Temple of Heaven is another architectural marvel in Beijing that showcases the application of Fengshui in its design.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (Tea)
A holistic system of health care that incorporates tea for its various therapeutic properties and health benefits.
Example:
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, certain teas are prescribed to improve digestion or reduce inflammation.