The greatest comfort and pleasure

Quite often it is the little luxuries in life that mean the most and provide the greatest comfort and pleasure. Tea at any hour of the day is a welcome respite to the mind, body and soul. Regardless of the time of day, the teapot is the star of the table setting.

Regarded for thousands of years as a key to good health, happiness and wisdom, tea has caught the attention of researchers who are discovering the many health benefits of different types of teas.

In spite of our enthusiasm and excitement over the health benefits of tea, we should not forget that there is an etiquette that is equally important for the full appreciation of tea.

.A handled cup is held with the index finger through the handle, the thumb just above it to support the grip, and the second finger below the handle for added security.

.Stirring a cup of tea is done gently and noiselessly by moving the teaspoon in a small arch back and forth in the center of the cup. Do not allow the teaspoon to touch the sides or rim of the cup.

.Remove the spoon and place it on the saucer behind the cup with the handle of the spoon pointing in the same direction as the handle of the cup. Visualize a clock on the saucer and properly place the handle of the cup and the handle of the spoon at four on the clock.

.Never wave or hold your tea cup in the air. When not in use, place the tea cup back in the tea saucer.

.If one is serving a wedge of lemon, traditionally the wedge is covered in gauze or tied in a cloth to avoid the seeds and juice from squirting when squeezed.

.The correct manner in which one eats a scone is the same way in which one eats a dinner roll. Simply break off a bite-size piece, place it on your plate and then apply with your bread the jam and cream. A fork is not used to eat a scone. Please, no dipping.

FAQ about afternoon Tea:

l. Does one drink tea or take tea?

One drinks tea. During the Victorian era, the term to take tea was used by the lower classes and considered a vulgar expression by the upper class.

2. Why is the shape of a teapot different from a coffee pot?

The teapot is designed with a lower rounded body to insure the tea leaves have the proper room for expansion during the infusion process. The lower placement of the spout allows for the tea to be poured without interfering with the leaves.

3. When drinking tea does one lift the teacup and saucer or just the teacup?

If one is seated at a table, the proper manner to drink tea is to raise the teacup only, placing it back into the saucer in between sips. If you are at a buffet tea, hold the tea saucer in your lap with your left hand and hold the teacup in your right hand. When not in use, place the teacup back in the tea saucer and hold in your lap. In either event, never wave or hold your teacup in the air.

4. Where does the expression "not my cup of tea" come from?

To refer to one as "not my cup of tea" derives from the fifteenth century Japanese Teaism. "No tea for him" was used to describe those one does not care for.

5. What do I do with my tea bag once the tea is brewed?

Remove the tea bag from the cup and place it on a side saucer or in a Bowl. Do not use the string to wrap around or squeeze the tea bag.

Health Benefits of Tea

It has been reported, drinking two cups of tea per day reduces the rate of heart disease and blood pressure, inhibits the production of platelets leading to blood clots and the growth of tumors. The natural flourides help to prevent tooth decay. Best of all, while not proven, it has been reported that tea drinking helps to stimulate a decrease in excess body fat.

(Reference: Tea Etiquette by Ellen Easton)