Hi and Welcome to 2010!
Stop! Before you read this article, do me a quick favour and run over to the kitchen and put the kettle on, because....
Today's blog is inspired by something that is just as ancient as the practise of massage and linked to our Relaxation Tip No 2: Have a cup of tea and a chat with a good friend.
Not only will this give you some quality time out with your friend, you're also secretly doing yourself a world of internal good.
Ever since tea was first infused, over 4700 years ago in ancient China, there has been many health benefits attributed to this humble plant, Camellia sinensis.
There are many varieties of tea, however the most popular types are Green and Black tea, followed by Oolong (red) and White tea.
There are also many flavours of Herbal teas available, however they are not strictly "tea" as they are not derived from the same plant. They are instead, an infusion of herbs, flowers, fruits, spices or other parts of other plants.
The colour of your tea will depend on how long it's been processed. Green and White tea are steamed quickly before being packed, and therefore are the least processed and will contain the most amount of anti-oxidants. Black and Oolong tea are partially dried, crushed and fermented prior to packaging, and will have a darker quality to it.
The main benefit of drinking tea is attributed to its content of polyphenols - a chemical which is found in the leaves of the plant, which contains the anti-oxidants.
Numerous scientific studies have claimed that tea is able to help the body
- prevent oxidative stress
- lower cholesterol levels
- boost mental alertness
- increase metabolic rate
- boost its immune system and
- protect against cardiovascular disease.
Tea has also been proven to have anti-cancer properties.
SO, now that the kettle's boiled, why not call a friend over to share a chat and a cuppa while you kick back and relax in the knowledge that like having a massage, it's you taking the time out to look after you.
Yours in health, until next time!
I first discovered chatting over a cup of tea when I was in London... The Brits do it very well. I don't drink coffee at all, but I'll have a cup of tea with a girly chat any day! Thanks for the post Mel. I feel relaxed and rejuvenated just reading it!
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