Dear friends,
A summer procedure in the Way of Tea, which is called "Araichakin," is one of my favorite tea ceremony procedures because I can actually feel the summer season. The host provides a shallow tea bowl filled with water, and coolness is felt by the guests in the tea room. Just seeing the water makes us feel cooler. The host now wrings the linen cloth that was submerged into the water and the sound of the dripping water echoes in the quiet tea room. The sound of the dripping water seems to penetrate deeply into my body, and I feel cooler. I now experience a sharper sense of hearing and vision and this reminds me that I am totally here and now. The host empties the bowl and prepares a bowl of matcha for the guests.
At this time everyone's mind is calm and the heat of the summer is forgotten. When the host starts making matcha, its aroma wafts through the air. Then I appreciate it and drink a bowl of matcha. The taste of the matcha is exceptional.
NYC has been hot this summer. Japan and Europe are experiencing record-breaking heat. I really like the summer season and I don't even mind the humidity; however, living without an air conditioner these days is not easy and it's a constant reminder of climate change. The summer procedure reminds me how important it is to be kind and considerate to others. And it brings calmness and happiness. Please stay cool and enjoy the rest of the summer.
All the best,
Kumiko