27 Mar Plum Village Tea Meditation: The Art of Mindfulness
Plum Village Tea Meditation consists of two forms: Ritual Tea Meditation (for a small group of 16-20 people) and Mass Tea Meditation (for hundreds to thousands). Both practices combine tea drinking, mindfulness practice, and sharing of inner feelings.
Origins
In the 1980s, when Plum Village was newly established, Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh created Tea Meditation to listen to the suffering of the many practitioners. Initially, the ritual tea meditation was reserved for those who dedicated a full month to practice, eventually evolving into mass tea meditation for all retreats.
Ritual Tea Meditation
- Ceremony: Begins with the offering of incense, paying homage to the Buddha, and the silent passing of tea and cakes.
- Mindfulness: Every action (from brewing tea to pouring water) is done with awareness. Participants recite a tea-drinking verse:
“A cup of tea in both hands / Mindfulness fills it to the brim / Body and mind at ease / Now and here.” - Sharing: Practitioners express joy, gratitude, or share soul-nourishing poems and music.
Mass Tea Meditation
- Simplicity: Without elaborate rituals or a tea master. Participants silently serve themselves tea or cakes and walk mindfully.
- Connection: After the opening bell, everyone shares their thoughts or offers artistic expressions.
Everyday Application
Tea meditation is not limited to formal practice. It can be applied during birthdays, family gatherings, or meetings with friends to:
- Center the Mind: Appreciate loved ones and resolve misunderstandings.
- Nourish Relationships: Reminisce about beautiful memories and foster love.
- Core Essence: Whether in a ritual or a mass setting, Plum Village Tea Meditation is always aimed at being rooted in the present, turning every cup of tea into an opportunity to deeply touch life and connect hearts.