The Paradox that is the Way of Tea

"In my own hands I hold a bowl of tea; I see all of nature represented in its green color. Closing my eyes I find green mountains and pure water within my own heart. Silently, sitting alone, drinking tea, I feel these become part of me. Sharing this bowl of tea with others, they, too, become one with it and nature. That we can find a lasting tranquility in our own selves in the company of others is the paradox that is the Way of Tea."
— Dr. Soshitsu Sen XV

From the Archives

I am getting ready for two new classes this weekend, so here are some posts from the archives:

One year ago:  It's harder than it looks,  Care of your kama,and Introducing kagetsu

Two years ago:  After a tea gathering,   The heart of tea,  and The right way

Three years ago:  It's not my fault,  Slow down,  Pay attention to what you are doing, and Breaking bad habits

Four years ago: Time for reflection, Hataraki, working things out,  It's not about perfection, This moment is complete, Making a good bowl of matcha tea, and Performance anxiety

Whew, it has been nearly five years since I started writing this blog.  Please take the time to look at the archives.  I hope you enjoy reading them.

Beginning Chanoyu

I have a new class that I will be offering this spring

Beginning Chanoyu

In this 10 week class, students will learn  the first procedure, Ryakubon.  It is a complete tea ceremony with all the essential elements, but you can do it without a lot of equipment or tea room.  I have shared tea this way for public presentations, and also while hiking, in the living room, on the train, in my hotel room while traveling and under the cherry blossoms.  Students will also deepen their understanding of the guest role, learn to make a couple of different types of sweets, and learn basic preparation and set up of the tea room.  We will begin to explore seasonal aspects of the tea ceremony, and at the end, put on a tea gathering for friends and family.  Come join us for this class.

When:  Starts Saturday, April 28th, 3:00-5:00 pm and goes for 10 weeks, fee is $250
Where: Issoan Tea Room, 17761 NW Marylhurst Ct., Portland, OR 97229
Very limited enrollment.  Please call Margie 503-645-7058 to register.  margie AT gmail.com

Introduction to Chado Class now forming

I have had some inquiries about when my next introduction class will be held.  And now here it is: starting Saturday, April 28th 1:00-2:30 for 10 weeks.

Introduction to Japanese Culture through the Tea Ceremony

Harmony, purity, respect and tranquility.  These are the four principles of tea ceremony distilled from Japanese culture.  In this ten week class, students will be introduced to Chado, the way of tea. The arts of Japan will be examined through the ritual preparation and drinking of matcha, Japanese ceremonial tea. 

An overview of Japanese aesthetics found in gardening, architecture, art and literature and how Tea Ceremony has influenced Japanese culture will be presented.  Also covered are tea ceramics, calligraphy, kimono dressing, and and learning etiquette on how to be a guest at a tea ceremony.. We will also learn zazen meditation and discuss how to put tea practice into every day life.

Classes will take place in a Japanese tea room located 4 blocks south of PCC Rock Creek campus.  17761 NW Marylhurst Ct.  Starting April 28th 1:00-2:30 pm for 10 weeks.  Fee is $250.  Space is limited, please register early.   

Contact Margie:  margie AT issoantea.com, or call 503-645-7058 to register.