Thursday October 9, 2008 | 4 comments
To the Chinese, the heart is the central life image, and a source of thought and intelligence. A healthy life includes eight essential time-taking activities. In this first post, we will learn about the first matter: repose.
Take time for repose – it is the germ of creation. The Chinese believe that during a deep breath, the energy of heaven is brought in through the nose into the heart/mind. The dictionary definition of repose includes, but is not limited to: freedom from that which excites, disturbs or stirs up; resulting in peace, tranquility, and calm. Synonyms include ease, quietness, peace, and relaxation.
In our busy lives, as we are pulled this way and that by technology; financial worries; and daily annoyances, it is easy to forget the healing power of deep breathing. Breathing deeply through the nose, then exhaling loudly and fully are excellent ways to lose stress and let go of life’s indignities, large and small.
Practice this as you prepare your tea: inhale deeply through the nose, and loudly out of your mouth. With each breath, say goodbye to something in your life that robs you of repose. After the tea steeps, put the cup up to your nose and take a deep draught of the energy of heaven. Rest yourself.
For me, two teas are perfect for repose . . . one is King of Pearls, a jasmine available at T Ching Store that reminds me of a peaceful summer Sunday. Meditative Mind, a well-named blend from the Tea Spot, lends itself to repose as well.
This series of posts were inspired by a lecture on Chinese characters given in 1991 by Chinese scholar and illustrator Ed Young.
Next: Take time to Read – it is the foundation of wisdom.
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With the walls of Jericho currently tumbling down all around us, this is very sage advice for all. If people would create more repose in their lives and breathe in the energy of heaven more regularly, we might not respond as panicky as so many of us have.
Thanks for this very important reminder, Regena.
I have to agree that the timing of this wonderful post couldn’t be more appropriate. Thanks Regena for reminding us that the breath and tea can sooth the soul.
Deep inhaling is basic rudiment of Yoga, so be it China or India or anywhere else, deep breath, which we normally forget in our fanzy to fight this world, is always so refreshing.
Fragrent chinese teas make it more lovely, so does a great cup of good Darjeeling tea.
try that too, ha ha
As a frequent pu-erh drinker, I try to do this with every infusion, especially with teas I’ve never drank before. I never really consciously made the correlation to how vital deep breathing is in calming oneself, whether it be by itself or accompanying tea. It’s interesting to logically look at it now and understand why that always felt like such a necessary and natural step to the enjoyment of such delightful teas. ^__^ Plus, I must agree with Michelle that the timing for this post couldn’t be more appropriate. Thanks!