Mellow Monk's Green Tea Blog: The way to tea: It's all about the mellow

Green tea is more than just a beverage—it is the cornerstone of a healthy, mellow way of life.

But the tea can't do all the work. You have to make a little effort, too.

To maximize the mellow during your green tea break, Jennifer Sauer—author of The Way to Tea—suggests following these simple steps [excerpted from a recent issue of Better Homes and Gardens]:

Create an atmosphere of relaxation by arranging fresh cut flowers and playing soothing music.
Find a quiet comfortable place on the floor or in a chair by a window so you can benefit from the natural light.
Steep the tea in a small pot to your desired strength. Remember, don't use boiling water on green tea. "You want to extract the nectar contained in the leaf, not cook it" says Pratt.
While the tea is steeping, notice what's going on around you-the light, the temperature, the weather. Don't think; just observe.
Before you take your first sip, give thanks for this quiet moment you have created.
During each subsequent sip give thanks for a different aspect of you life, such as friends, health, children, spouse, job.
On the last sip of tea, smile softly to yourself and say one last sentiment of gratitude, such as, "I give thanks for the great abundance in my life."
As you clean the tea ware, contemplate on how the ritual cleansed your mind and body.