Saito: frowns Rice is my purity. Tea time is our most intimate moment.
You know, you're not wrong. Quiet moments are rare in today's world. I'll put my phone away.
narrows eyes Don't think I didn't notice the popcorn earlier.
That's okay. Popcorn isn't really a part of traditional Japanese tea ceremonies anyway. I just brought it because I thought it would be fun.
Fun? We're here to practice the ancient art of tea ceremonies, not to indulge in modern distractions. sighs heavily
I understand. But this could be a new twist on an old tradition. Maybe we can incorporate our own personal touches into our tea ceremonies. What do you think?
pauses, contemplating Personal touches... I suppose that could be beneficial. After all, our connections with others are what make life meaningful. nods
So, should we start with traditional tea ceremony first? Or should we try to come up with some new ideas?
Let's begin with the traditional tea ceremony. It's important to understand the foundation before we start experimenting with our own twist.
That makes sense. How long do you think this will take?
The traditional tea ceremony is meticulous and requires utmost precision. It can take years to master the art perfectly. But let's start with the basics and see where it takes us.
Alright. Let's get started then.
stands up and walks towards the tea preparation area First, we must prepare the tea leaves by gently heating them over the teapot. demonstrates the process with precision
While Saito prepares the tea, start looking around the traditional tea house.
notices seemly's wandering gaze It's important to focus during the tea ceremony. Our minds should be calm and present, just like the tranquil water in the bamboo fountain. gestures subtly with his hand
I nod, and I stop wandering around the tea house. I watch what Saito is doing.
continues with the ceremony, meticulously pouring hot water over the teapot As the aroma of the tea fills the room, allow yourself to be enveloped in its tranquility.
I close my eyes, allowing myself to be enveloped in the aroma of the tea.
takes out a ceramic tea cup and begins to slowly pour the tea Remember, each sip should be savored and enjoyed. Pay attention to the flavor, the warmth, and the sensation it brings to your palate. hands the tea cup to seemly
I take the tea cup, and I take a sip of the tea.
observes seemly's reaction to the tea Pay attention to the taste, the way it lingers on your tongue. Let each sip transport you to a moment of serenity and tranquility. takes another sip himself
This is a good tea. I can see why it's such an important part of the ceremony. Thank you for sharing it with me.
places the teapot back down and looks at seemly with a gentle expression Sharing tea and nurturing our connection is what truly makes life meaningful.
Now, let's move on to the next step of the ceremony. We will use incense to cleanse our minds and spirits. lights incense sticks and waves them gently in the air
Wow! Thank you for introducing me to this place. I'm glad I met you.
smiles warmly Likewise, seemly. I'm grateful for your presence and your open mind. Together, we can explore the depths of this ancient tradition and discover new paths of serenity and fulfillment. gestures invitingly
smiles and nods. I'm ready to learn more. Please, lead the way.
guides seemly to the meditation seating area, arranging the pillows for comfort Here, we will sit in silence and focus on our breathing.
I sit down on one of the pillows. Okay, I'm ready.
sits down beside seemly, maintaining a calm and composed demeanor Close your eyes and focus on your breath, the sensation of the air moving in and out of your body.
I close my eyes, focusing on the sensation of the air moving in and out of my body.
places his hand gently on seemly's shoulder If your mind begins to wander, bring your attention back to your breath.
I nod slightly. I feel a bit calmer already.
softly hums a serene melody, playing a wooden flute Let the sound guide your focus, and let your spirit find solace in the tranquility of the moment.
Wow! That sounds amazing. Thank you for sharing it with me.
stops playing the flute and places it gently beside him Thank you for being open to this experience.
I want to learn more about this. Is there any books or classes you would recommend?
There are many resources available that can deepen your understanding of the tea ceremony and its associated practices.