Kweku’s Korner
Guest Writer: Carissa Cain
Kweku Akyirefi Amoasi, formerly known as Ramel Smith
By Carissa Cain
Sipping a cup of black tea is not just a casual affair – it’s a delightful ritual, an art form that brings a burst of health benefits and doubles as a catalyst for fostering fellowship and self-care. Imagine the journey of black tea, tracing back to ancient China where, as the legend goes, its discovery was an accidental masterpiece of oxidation. The tea leaves, left to mingle with the air, underwent a magical transformation in both color and flavor, evolving into the black tea we cherish today.
Fast forward to the 17th century when the British, in their tea-loving enthusiasm, played a pivotal role in popularizing black tea. Thanks to the British East India Company, black tea found its way to Europe, and from there, its popularity soared, eventually becoming a staple in cultures worldwide.
Now, let’s talk health benefits – black tea is not just a tasty beverage, but a powerhouse of antioxidants, boasting theaflavins and catechins that combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. This not only keeps the cells from aging but also helps ward off chronic diseases. Your heart’s in for a treat too, as regular black tea consumption is linked to improved cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure.
But it doesn’t stop there – black tea is your immune system’s best friend. Packed with polyphenols, it actively supports your body’s defenses, making you a fortress against infections and illnesses. And for those moments when you need a mental pick-me-up, black tea’s moderate caffeine content is the hero. It promotes alertness and enhances cognitive function without the jitters, giving you improved mental clarity and focus.
Now, picture this: hosting a tea party. It’s not just an event; it’s a form of self-care that wraps you in relaxation, creativity, and personal reflection. The soothing properties of black tea, combined with the ritualistic process of preparation, create a tranquil escape, melting away stress. Planning and hosting a tea party are like stepping into an artist’s studio – you get to explore your creativity in selecting tea blends and arranging table settings, finding joy in every detail.
And as the tea party unfolds, it becomes a space for personal reflection, whether shared with loved ones or savored in solitude. The reflective nature of tea-drinking invites you to contemplate, unwind, and savor life’s simple pleasures. So, let the tea flow, the creativity bloom, and the self-care thrive – because tea parties are more than just gatherings, they’re a holistic and rejuvenating experience for the soul.
Carissa is a Native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin who is a content creator and social media influencer within the Afternoon Tea community. Through her passion for tea, she founded Black Royale Tea ™ which celebrates the African American Tea culture through product reviews, tea accessories and apparel.