By Janet Adetu
Ummm…. That was so refreshing”    I am a regular tea drinker back in the days I would have no less than four cups a day. I stil find it most refreshing, soothing a great kick start to my day but I have since reduced my daily consumption.

But you will agree with me that a cup of tea is one of the most widely and popularly consumed beverages worldwide second only to water. Tea is drank everywhere in spite of hot temperatures and more so during cold temperatures.

There are different reasons for tea drinking depending on the culture and geographical location. Many other countries have simply imbibed the art of drinking tea, as a common custom too. Tea is often dran first thing in the morning as part of breakfast, or in the afternoon as high tea break or in the evening to complete dinner.

Art of Taking Tea

They say that drinking tea can awaken the senses and emotions. Research has shown that Theanine is present in all tea plants has been known to induce a calmer, yet more alert state of mind. The strength of the tea is in the hot water and the length of brewing time. Most tea will brew well in boiling water.

All tea is stored in a teabag for easy preparation, for better storage teabags should be kept in a cool place. Today there are countless types of tea from Earl Grey, to English Breakfast, Ceylon, Assam, to a range of herbal teas including Green tea, Chamomile, Lemon among many.

Your tea should ideally be served in a teapot with its accompanying tea-set. The simple set includes: teapot, teacups, tea strainer, spoon, milk jug and sugar pot.  The most exclusive tea sets are made from bone china dawned with beautiful designs.

Just as there are ways and Etiquette of doing things, Tea isn’t left out. Although etiquette and customs evolve over time, some issues are not negotiable and proper behavior cannot be raised.

Let’s take a look at general Etiquette around having Tea.

Once you arrive a tea invitation sit and place your napkin on you lap
Place your bag on a spare seat or on your lap if it is a pusre
iii. Place your tea bag in a cup then pour hot water immediately leaving to brew for ta little while.

Remove the teabag once you are satisfied with strength of the tea
Request a saucer to hold the used tea bag, sugar wrappers or any disposables used.
Add sugar or honey for sweetening and stir gently
vii. Add lemon slices for taste if required avoid using lemon wedges

viii. Add milk to black tea as a compliment it can be full cream, semi skimmed or skimmed milk

ix.Never add milk to herbal tea to avoid curdling, Milk and lemon are enemies in a cup of tea

Always take your spoon out of your cup after stirring, then place your spoon in front of your cup
Hold your cup along with the saucer placing the teaspoon by the side of the saucer
xii. Never drink your tea with the spoon left inside

xiii. Avoid flying your pinky /baby finger while holding cup

xiv. Never use a spoon to drink your teas even when piping hot

Compliment your cup of tea with edibles such as scones, mini sandwiches, muffins
xvi. Begin to converse with those around you, socialize and build your relationships.

xvii. Bon Appetite

xviii.         Enjoy the conversation at the table

Dos & Don’ts of Tea Etiquette

Shake hands and greet to acclimatize yourself with your locality
Look into and not over your cup when drinking
Sip your tea calmly
Try a little of each course served at tea
When eating scones spread a little jam
Use your napkin before your start
Don’t slurp when drinking your tea
Don’t overload your cup with too much water leave room for milk and sugar
Don’t make noises when stirring your tea
No need to turn your cup upside down after use
Don’t touch your face while at the table
Never talk with your mouth full
Not everyone is inclined to drinking tea others will say they prefer to drink coffee. To a large extent the same principles apply. The art of Tea etiquette should not be taken for granted many acquaintances, deals and proposals have emanated from afternoon tea meetings. Cold drinks are also acceptable during these sessions. Why note sign contracts and seal deals at your next tea invitation.

Goodluck!