One of the most magical and hard to describe aspects of tea drinking is cha qi - literally 'tea energy'. Different teas are said to possess different energies, and these energies can be felt in the body, often immediately after drinking.
What are the effects? They vary wildly from tea to tea, and from person to person. They can include ringing in the ears or a tingling sensation in the mouth. Cha qi may be associated with a warm feeling in the body or burping.
Beyond the physical sensations, tea energy may be used to describe a sense of calm or relaxation that comes from drinking tea. Alternately, cha qi may be invigorating or convey a heightened focus. These sensations may be related to the dual chemicals of caffeine and theanine that naturally occur in tea plants. Caffeine gives you energy, but theanine has been shown to relieve stress and anxiety.
"What's in there?" "Only what you take with you."
Ultimately, cha qi is the feeling you get from drinking tea, and is influenced by your mental state while brewing, pouring, and enjoying the tea.
While each persons experience of tea may vary, the most likely way to experience cha qi is through Gong Fu tea brewing. Take a look at our Gong Fu offerings or ask about our Private Collection.
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