Find Serenity: Rediscover the True Joy of the Holidays

The Warmth of Tea: A Moment to Reflect

As the second week of December approaches, we reflect on the warmth and meaning of the holiday season. This year, Thanksgiving arrived late, giving us a chance to break free from our usual routines. My husband and I spent the day at a nursing home, sharing a turkey dinner with a 90-year-old couple and other residents. We watched the Macy's Parade and a dog show on TV together. It was so joyful and meaningful Thanksgiving for us. I think there is greater joy when you truly share things. 

Now, with Christmas just around the corner, many of us find ourselves overwhelmed by preparations—choosing gifts, organizing gatherings, and fulfilling year-end commitments. I am in the midst of the busiest season at the nail salon where I work. Meeting my loyal customers warms my heart, but the exhaustion from endless work and meetings sometimes takes its toll.

Let’s take a moment to slow down and set aside the weight of our busy minds with a warm cup of tea. In this newsletter, I’ll keep it short and sweet—covering a brief history of tea, tips for pairing tea with food, a look at recycling with tea in mind, and a bit about ginger tea as it’s enjoyed here in the U.S. versus the way my mom used to make it. So, let’s sit back, sip, and dive into this tea journey together!

A Journey Through Tea-Stories, Recipes, and Comfort

Tea is more than a beverage. It's a ritual, a comfort, a bridge between cultures and generations. Its story begins in ancient China around 2737 BCE, when legend says Emperor Shen Nong discovered it by accident. Since then, tea has traveled across continents, embracing unique traditions:

• China: Known for green and oolong teas, symbolizing harmony and balance.

• Japan: Famous for matcha and ceremonial tea rituals emphasizing mindfulness.

• India: Celebrated for masala chai, a spiced tea that warms and energizes.

• United Kingdom: Renowned for black tea and the tradition of afternoon tea

Mom's Ginger Tea

Tea has long been a comforting companion, especially in the cold seasons. Ginger tea’s antibacterial properties make it an excellent choice for wellness.

Winter always brings back memories of my mother's ginger tea. As cold winds blew, she would stand in the kitchen, carefully slicing fresh ginger, filling our home with a warm, spicy aroma.

"You cannot catch a cold," she'd say, handing me a steaming cup. Each sip was more than just tea—it was a moment of pure maternal love. Her recipe was simple: thinly sliced ginger, boiling water, a touch of honey, and sometimes a sprinkle of pine nuts. Now, when I brew my ginger tea, I remember her hands, care, and warmth. It's not just a drink, but a living memory of love that keeps me connected to her, even on the coldest winter days.

Ginger Tea Recipe

1. Peel and slice fresh ginger (about 50g per cup).

2. Boil the ginger in water for 10–15 minutes until aromatic.

3. Sweeten with organic honey to taste.

4. Pour into a cup and garnish with pine nuts for a nutty crunch and elegance.

Do you have a special memory or recipe with tea? We'd love to hear your story!

Foods That Pair Well with Tea

Pair your tea with delicious snacks to enhance the experience:

• Green Tea: Best enjoyed with light pastries or fresh fruits.

• Black Tea: Perfect with scones, biscuits, or savory sandwiches.

• Herbal Teas: Pair well with dark chocolate or roasted nuts.

Caring for the Environment with Tea

After enjoying your tea, don’t forget to recycle those tea bags:

• Skincare: Use cooled tea bags to soothe tired eyes or reduce puffiness.

• Gardening: Add tea bags to compost for nutrient-rich soil.

• Deodorizer: Dry them and place them in shoes or the fridge to absorb odors.

Let’s Embrace the Joy of Tea Together

As this busy season unfolds, let’s take a moment to appreciate the simple pleasures that tea brings—a sense of calm, a connection to tradition, and warmth to share with others.

What would you like to explore next? Let’s continue this tea journey together, one soothing cup at a time. May your year-end be filled with warmth, connection, and the beauty of tea.

Now, let’s stay strong and get through the week with a kind and beautiful heart. If you know someone having a hard time this holiday season, share a cup of tea and some comforting words with them. You’re an amazing part of UR Happy Place family. Take care of yourself this cold winter, and watch out for the flu and colds. Maybe have some ginger tea~~? See you soon!

💌 Sharing This Journey Together

Do you know someone who would appreciate the warmth of a good cup of tea? Share this newsletter with them and invite them to join our journey.

Warm wishes,

Bo Stanton

Co-Founder of UR Happy Place